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Hop on the Central Mid-Level Escalators in Hong Kong, and ride all the way up to discover Tai Kwun, Hong Kong’s former Police Station turned Cultural Center with a unique history. This artsy hotspot used to be the city’s central police station, but it’s been given an awesome makeover. In 2018, the talented team at Herzog & de Meuron Architects put the finishing touches on their visionary project to transform this historic landmark into Tai Kwun Center for Heritage and Arts. They added two stunning new buildings: the sleek JC Contemporary and the futuristic JC Cube. From top to bottom, Tai Kwun is now a vibrant home for contemporary art, performances, shopping, and dining.
Can you imagine a walled fortress of colonial justice and punishment sitting right in the bustling heart of Hong Kong? Well, that’s exactly what the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy, and Victoria Prison were. Established by the British in 1841 after they took over Hong Kong, this imposing compound was the headquarters for keeping the peace, locking up criminals, and throwing away the key. For over 150 years, it stood as a symbol of colonial order and control. But by 2006, this relic of Hong Kong’s past had outlived its usefulness. Suddenly, this sprawling complex – a secluded oasis of historic buildings and open grounds – was abandoned, a ghostly monument in the middle of the never-sleeping metropolis. Though no longer a place of punishment and incarceration, the old prison compound remains one of Hong Kong’s most important heritage sites, giving us a window into the city’s origins under colonial rule.
Tai Kwun was once the nerve center of law and order in colonial Hong Kong, with a police station, magistrates’ courts, and prison clustered within its imposing compound. When the British relinquished control in 1997, these buildings fell into disuse. But rather than bulldozing this historic site, Herzog & de Meuron Architects spearheaded an ambitious effort to breathe new life into it.
The team meticulously restored the 16 original structures, some dating back to 1841. Two modern additions were seamlessly woven into the fabric. The result is a vibrant hub that preserves a defining chapter of the city’s past. Tai Kwun now stands as Hong Kong’s most extensive heritage conservation project – a stirring example of how to honor history while moving confidently into the future.
From its fascinating heritage courtyards to its eclectic arts offerings, Tai Kwun is a one-of-a-kind experience in Hong Kong. You’ll feel like you are stepping into the past as you wander through the beautifully restored 19th century buildings, where interactive exhibits bring history to life. Don’t miss the tiny prison cells that once held thousands – it’s a chilling yet intriguing look back in time. Today, those cells are filled with Instagrammers chatting and sipping coffee.
Tai Kwun Contemporary’s exhibitions are showcased in 1500-plus square meters of museum-standard galleries over three storys. Located in the new building JC Contemporary as well as the F Hall heritage building, the gallery spaces connect the new and the old, much like the spirit of the entire site. The facade of the new building is moreover inspired by the brick patterns found on this historic site, while the new circular staircase has become one of the main attractions of the entire revitalized compound.
But Tai Kwun is more than a history lesson! Beyond the heritage site, you’ll discover a lively cultural center filled with visual arts, live music, theater, films, and even free concerts. Fuel up at the awesome restaurants and cafes scattered throughout. With so much to see and do, Tai Kwun is hands down the coolest spot in town to time travel from colonial Hong Kong to the vibrant arts scene of today. Come for the heritage, stay for the culture and vibes – Tai Kwun has it all!
Located in the SOHO area of Central, Hong Kong Island, Tai Kwun, mixes with other important heritage sites in Central and Sheung Wan, and is conveniently connected to Hollywood Road. With a bustling community surrounded by galleries, antique shops, restaurants and bars, Tai Kwun’s neighborhood breathes the essence of a vibrant cultural life.
Tai Kwun is easily accessible via public entrance gates. Visitors can also enter via a footbridge at the intersection of Hollywood Road and Old Bailey Street, which connects the compound with the Central to Mid-Levels Escalator.
Enjoy your experience at Tai Kwun with the highlights of Exhibition & Programmes and Lifestyle Enjoyment!
Opening Hours:
| 8am-11pm | | Tai Kwun |
| 10am-8pm | | Visitor Centre |
| 11am-7pm (Tue – Sun) | | JC Contemporary |
| 11am-7pm | | Heritage Exhibitions |
Are you planning a trip to Hong Kong? Check out my Hong Kong Travel Guide (below) – it’s packed with helpful tips and tricks to get you in, out, and navigate around this beautiful country. Also, be sure to stay tuned for the latest blog posts and follow my Instagram where I’ll be sharing all my adventures and more tips on finding beautiful architecture and design around the globe!
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