As we all know, the neon signs of Hong Kong have become an increasingly rare sight. These iconic symbols of the past are like magnets to photographers, looking to capture them before they are gone. In this article, I'll share the location of what are in my opinion the best of the remaining signs scattered across Hong Kong in no particular order.
Portland Street, Mong Kok
Mong Kok was once packed with neon signs around every corner. These days, only a few streets still boast these icons, and Portland Street has the most. Specifically, at the intersection of Portland Street and Changsha Street, you will find my favourite signs in Mong Kok. I can’t tell you how many photos I have taken here, and yet I am still not bored of the location. If taking photos of neon signs is your thing, make this location your first stop.
Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei
Temple Street is known for its night market, one of the busiest flea markets in all of Hong Kong, with a bit of a shady side. Near the night market, there is a Mah-jong establishment boasting a giant neon cascade stretching its entrance and around the corner onto Kansu Street. Kansu Street was once home to three signboards that overhung the street, but they have since been removed. Fortunately, the owners of one of the signs (Koon Nam Wah Bridal) have constructed a new, although much smaller, sign that complies with the new regulations. Right next to this, there is another impressive sign on Woosung Street.
Lei Yue Mun
Lei Yue Mun, or as I like to call it, the neon fishing village, is known for its bustling seafood market and restaurants. It's a great location for those who would like to experience a more local side of Hong Kong.
The neon signs in Lei Yue Mun are gorgeous. Many of the seafood restaurants use vibrant neon signs to attract customers, which makes for a truly enchanting one of a kind night atmosphere.
Yuen Long
Yuen Long is a vibrant district located in the northwest of the New Territories. It is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and a mix of urban and rural landscapes. It also is a great spot for hunting neon signs, with a few notable locations which make it worth the MTR ride.
After getting off the MTR, make your way to Yuen Long Pau Cheung Square, where you will find some iconic Pawn Shop neon signs overhanging some walkways and restaurants.
From there, head to Castle Peak Road, you should see the last remaining neon on this once neon filled street which is right near a light rail station.
Finally you can end your evening of neon hunting at Sai Ching Street, where you will find a number of large neon signs which will be sure to satisfy your neon appetite.
Kowloon City
Kowloon City was once home to the incredible Kowloon Walled City, a once densely populated, lawless enclave, which was demolished in the early 1990's. It was also home to the famous Kai Tak Airport, which would have planes dramatically land after flying above neon filled streets.
Sadly, these are relics of the past, and there are only a few neon signs that remain, however they are truly magnificent and worth a visit. Take the MTR to Sung Wong Toi and get out at Exit B. From here walk a few blocks over to Hau Wong Road, where you will find the majority of the remaining signs in the area. There are a few others scattered nearby, which won't be hard to find as Kowloon City is not all that large.
Anywhere else?
There are of course other locations which you will be able to find the odd neon sign here and there, most notably on the island side you can find some signs in Central, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay, worth exploring and checking out for sure. You can also wander the streets of Tsuen Wan in New Territories, if you are already planning on checking out Yuen Long, you can make a stop over at Tsuen Wan and have a look around.
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