Twenty years is a long time to stay away from a city as vibrant and fast-paced as Hong Kong. Having lived there in the 90s, I recently returned, and while much had changed, the warmth, energy, and excitement were exactly as I remembered. Hong Kong has always been a dynamic place, but now it has an even more captivating layer - an art scene that has exploded into areas I once knew as warehouses. These industrial zones have transformed into thriving cultural districts filled with artisan stores, craft workshops, street art, and a diverse array of food and culture.
A New Art Scene in Familiar Places
One area that particularly stood out to me on this trip was Sham Shui Po. Once known for its factories, it has now become a creative hub where you can take part in everything from pottery classes to DIY soap-making workshops. The streets are lined with unique boutiques showcasing handmade goods, and there’s a sense of craftsmanship around every corner. The Mills, another revitalized district, blends the city’s industrial past with its forward-thinking creativity. This space hosts tech-style startups, cultural exhibitions, and community-driven events that make it a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of history and art.
Food and culture
No visit to Hong Kong is complete without indulging in the city’s incredible food scene. I couldn’t resist diving back into my favourite dishes, especially Peking duck, which is still prepared to perfection at many of Hong Kong’s top restaurants. The culinary culture here is unmatched, offering everything from street food to fine dining. Dim sum, fresh seafood, and international fusion cuisines are all part of what makes Hong Kong a food lover’s dream. You can literally taste the city’s melting pot of influences with every meal.
Performing arts in Hong Kong
Beyond the visual arts, Hong Kong’s performing arts scene is thriving. The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, known for its world-class performances, and the Hong Kong Ballet, which masterfully blends traditional and contemporary dance, are just a few examples of the cultural treasures the city has to offer. Whether it’s modern dance or classic Chinese opera, the city’s performance venues are always buzzing with exciting shows that reflect both its rich heritage and modern influences.
Nuit Blanche Toronto: Where Hong Kong meets Toronto
If you’re an art lover and live close to Toronto, don’t miss Nuit Blanche this year! It’s a 24-hour celebration of art, where the streets of Toronto come alive with installations, performances, and creativity spilling into every corner. This year, Hong Kong plays a special role as the city’s influence expands globally.
One of the standout features of this year’s event is the visiting Hong Kong artist HUNG Keung. HUNG Keung is known for blending traditional Chinese art with cutting-edge digital media, creating immersive experiences that engage all the senses. His interactive piece, "Dim Sum without Distance," uses Dim Sum—a culinary staple in Hong Kong—as a metaphor for cultural connection. The term "Dim Sum" means “touch the heart,” and this installation is designed to bridge cultural divides through food, art, and community.
As you walk through HUNG Keung’s installation at Nuit Blanche, you’ll journey through the traditions of Chinese cuisine and reflect on how art can transcend boundaries. His work invites us to consider how food and culture connect people across the globe. It’s the perfect blend of culinary tradition, artistic innovation, and cultural identity, offering Torontonians a rare glimpse into Hong Kong’s evolving art scene.
How Hong Kong is shaping the global art world
Nuit Blanche isn’t just a local event—it’s becoming a global stage for artistic exchange, and this year’s collaboration with Hong Kong highlights how cities across the world are fostering creativity. Hong Kong’s art scene has become a major player on the international stage, blending its rich cultural traditions with modern influences. The city is emerging as a hub for artists who work at the intersection of tradition and modernity, making it an exciting place for both creators and spectators.
Visiting Hong Kong: A cultural adventure
If Nuit Blanche sparks your interest in Hong Kong’s art scene, there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting the city yourself. Cathay Pacific offers direct flights from both Toronto and Vancouver, making it easy to get there. The flight is comfortable and seamless, and before you know it, you’ll be stepping into one of the world’s most exciting cities.
When I visited, I stayed at Hotel New World Millennium in Tsim Sha Tsui, a vibrant area of Kowloon that offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and easy access to both shopping and cultural sites. The hotel combines luxury with comfort, and its proximity to Hong Kong’s art districts makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s creative offerings. The floor to ceiling windows overlooking the Harbour were an art piece in itself and the Dim Sum lunch, all you can eat was to die for!
Hong Kong is also a great stopover destination if you’re planning to continue your journey through Southeast Asia or pick up a cruise. Whether you’re staying for a short visit or planning a longer cultural escape, the city’s blend of old and new, art and food, will leave you wanting more.
Conclusion
Hong Kong is an art destination like no other. From Sham Shui Po to The Mills, from street art to world-class performances, the city offers a cultural experience that is vibrant, dynamic, and ever-evolving. Whether you’re exploring Hong Kong’s art scene firsthand or experiencing a taste of it at Nuit Blanche in Toronto, you’ll find yourself drawn into a world where tradition and modernity meet in the most exciting ways.
Exciting upcoming trips
Speaking of travel, I’m thrilled to share that I’ve planned a couple of very special trips in the coming months. In April, I’ll be celebrating my 60th birthday with a luxurious Atlas Ocean Voyages cruise from Portugal to Morocco, including stops in the Azores and Spanish Islands. It’s going to be a truly unforgettable experience, and I’d love for you to join me.
In June, I’ve designed a Bridgerton-themed trip in the UK, where we’ll explore all things regal and romantic. Both of these trips are very limited, so grab your space soon if you’re interested!
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