5 Iconic streets in HK Island
We all know that Hong Kong has a rich history of culture, traditions and economic exchange that has resulted in a mixed-pot diversity within our communities.
Though a lot of the "old" has been unfortunately destroyed, there is thankfully a lot of Hong Kong history in it's streets. The streets and roads are littered with small remnants of the past that give a specialized emphasis in the present, we learn about Hong Kong through our experiences with it, its history is ingrained in every detail! From city planning to antique stores to war memorials and temples, Hong Kong today is a fusion of the past, present and future.
Delve into the beauty of Hong Kong by checking out these iconic streets in HK island!
Graham street:
Location: MTR Hong Kong Station Level 3 Shop HOK 48 Central, Central, Hong Kong
Alex Croft, a commissioned muralist had unknowingly rendered one of the most common picture places in Hong Kong. This mural pays homage to the densely packed residential buildings of Yau Ma Tei whilst paying regards to the ostentatious brilliance of the present culture in Hong Kong. The mural is a combination of timely history and artistic rendition that will educate and remain as a memorial to the arts represented throughout the history that we have all cultivated together. This instagram-famous wall is certainly a classic place to visit, be part of this collective monumentalism of shared history!
Pottinger street:
Location: Pottinger St, Central, Hong Kong
This street, named after the first governor of Hong Kong Henry Pottinger, brings back past history to life! The stone-slab street that runs along a steep slope is quite a view as you can see people marvel at the aesthetic yet functionable street structure as this was used to effectively let rainwater stream down the side of the street rather than clog up the actual walking path.
In the 19th century, Chinese and European residents used to live separately in different neighbourhoods. The street once acts as a rough boundary between the two groups!! The Chinese used to mainly live west of the street and westerners to the east.
Go give this street a visit if you already haven't!
Ladder street:
Location of Man Mo temple in Ladder street: 124-126 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island
This street is iconic in terms of the special HK landmarks that you can visit while taking your stroll around this urban jungle. This section of the Hollywood road will lead you to the impeccable Man Mo temple which is the temple of war and wisdom which used to be a temple that imperial chinese students would visit to pray for good results in their examinations. This landmark now serves as a public temple where you can offer your wishes through incense.
Lascar Row/Cat street:
Location:Upper Lascar Row, Sheung Wan
After visiting Pottinger Street you're a history buff and you haven't already checked out Cat Street, then you're definitely missing out! This street is filled with antiques of the past from cultural revolution propaganda posters to Qing dynasty antique collection pieces, there is a whole variety of tangible memorables that connect to the root of Hong kong's rich history and culture. Bartering can be done to make sure what you're buying is worth it. A worthy tip to note is that you NEED to make sure you know your stuff before buying any kind of stone cuts or antique pieces as there may be some counterfeits you would need to look out for!
Ko shing street:
Location: Ko Shing Street, Sheung wan, HK island
This street is bursting with Chinese medicine shops. Speaking from my experience, I do find that nature really is our best medicine at times, which is to say that proper modern medicine intake and consulting a professional physician would be the best option. However, we all know that herbs and certain plants have medicinal properties which can cure certain ailments, from head aches to cramps to bowel movement issues, a quick Chinese medicinal tea can be bought at a relatively cheaper price! Want to improve your Cantonese as a benefit as well? Then go on ahead and try to converse with the herbal shopkeepers there and learn more about the beauty in traditional Chinese medicine!
Go check it out, it will be your time worth experience !!