From appreciating traditional craftsmanship to exploring local culinary heritage, get a taste of old Hong Kong by visiting these hidden gems
Living in a vibrant city like Hong Kong where boasts a sophisticated fusion of East and West cultures, it’s easy to overlook those local traditions which shaped and influenced the city in every facet of lifestyle for decades.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you may have been to the most stylish alfresco bars and restaurants for impressive food and cocktails, or a gorgeous boutique hotel for a luxury staycation. But we bet you haven’t seen the best of Hong Kong, until you have checked out these spots for the city's most famous cultural heritage:
Biu Kee Mahjong
It’s impossible to discuss Hong Kong’s traditions without mentioning mahjong—a tile-based strategy game originated from the Qing dynasty—which is about as essential to Chinese culture as Beijing opera, traditional Chinese paintings and traditional Chinese medicine.
Mahjong has long been a favourite pastime amongst locals, and is often played at family gatherings during Chinese New Year and weddings. Today, the game is evolving with electronic tables and magnetic tiles, but Biu Kee Mahjong—one of Hong Kong’s last makers of hand-carved mahjong tiles—has survived through the tide of time, preserving and reviving the dying art.
Pay a visit to this small shop and join a hand-carving mahjong class led by the owner—Uncle King. You’ll be able to appreciate the meticulous work behind the tiles, and bring home a little cultural gem.
Biu Kee Mahjong, 235 Temple Street, Jordan, Hong Kong, +852 2730 4028; Biu Kee Mahjong Facebook page