REVITALISING HONG KONG’S ICONIC NIGHT MARKETS
As locals have argued, resources could be allocated to update Hong Kong’s ageing night markets, instead of building them from scratch.
Temple Street is arguably the most famous night market in Hong Kong, with its decades-long history. The Yaumatei Temple Street Association of Hawkers and Shop Operators has urged the government to transform the night market into a tourist spot that meets modern standards.
When I visited the Temple Street night market this year, I found that it had plenty of local flavour with its fortune-telling services, street performances and karaoke stalls, but the food offerings lacked variety. The Hong Kong Hawkers Association has also admitted that the dry goods stalls mostly sell made-in-China products and are not attractive to foreign visitors.
Investing in Temple Street to create an attractive night market will take time. The Hong Kong Tourism Board has said that it is working with trade associations and government bodies to plan food markets and festive events to “enhance the overall vibe of Temple Street”, but details have yet to be announced.
To save Hong Kong’s economy, and lure Hong Kongers and tourists back into the city’s nightlife, short-term promotion is one solution.
Night Vibes Hong Kong has organised firework displays and Halloween celebrations, which certainly fits the campaign’s theme. Still, such attractions have been annual occurrences in Hong Kong for at least a decade, so locals and visitors may be left wanting for fresh experiences.
Hong Kong does not have an F1 race and Taylor Swift concerts to promote the city as Singapore does. It may take more creativity to reawaken the city that once never slept.
Jacky Leung is an award-winning journalist who has worked in multiple Hong Kong TV and radio news stations. He is currently based in London.
Source: CNA
