Hong Kong trip to Central, Stanley and Sheung Wan

Hong Kong is renowned the world over for its namesake, the ”fragrant harbour”, evoking nostalgic sentiments and romantic ideals of Hong Kong’s ever changing waterfront. The ferry commute, Hong Kong’s most romantic transport, provides an experience that is both every day and exceptional, offering us a sanctuary to contemplate life. Though Central is grey, as you wander towards the pier, the grey dissipates as sunlight seeps through, revealing the contrast of the star ferries deep greens amongst the white of Victoria Harbour’s breaking waves.

The Star Ferry is an iconic symbol of Hong Kong. The green and white ferry that crosses the harbour separating Hong Kong Island from the mainland bridges the divides, bringing us closer together, not just with each other, but also with our past and our hopes for the future. Its consistency through all times in history embodies Hong Kong’s resolve to persevere. Its latest history reflects the struggle of Hong Kong people’s search for self determination and the recognition that things can hold value even if there isn’t a dollar sign in sight.

Murray House embodies Hong Kong’s East meets West history with its Chinese roof and Western pillars, while its history challenges conventional notions of moving house and mobility as the historical monument was moved brick to brick from Admiralty to Stanley. While Stanley’s Chinese name is all about red; the space reflects nature’s balance with the blue sky and sea amidst the brown of the earth.

The Western Market in Sheung Wan is a historical building that has the ability to be a time capsule, transporting us back through the years of our history. The Western Market stands out among Hong Kong’s modern architecture as startlingly unique and different, however, few people go to visit it or appreciate it. The building gives the impression that it is trapped in the past and cannot establish itself in the now. It is a portal to the world before and as such can become a medium through which HK’ community can connect with its history.