Tai Kwun: Hong Kong's new center for heritage and arts

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The Tai Kwun Center for Heritage and Arts is the newest must-see spot in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) for art lovers, urban dwellers and curious travelers on the lookout for a cultural experience with a modern twist.

Unveiled in June, the venue aims to cultivate knowledge and appreciation of contemporary art, performing arts and history through diversified and innovative heritage and arts programs.

What's in a name?

The cultural hub is the new face of an old landmark in Hong Kong, the Central Police Station. The name "Tai Kwun" in Chinese means "big station."

As early as the 1880s, the name Tai Kwun has been recorded in news articles about the now decommissioned police station.

The Jockey Club CPS Limited, which was the driving force behind this project in collaboration with local authorities, decided to adopt the name as a reminder of the historical importance of the compound.

The sign of "Tai Kwun" at Hollywood Rd in Hong Kong. /VCG Photo

History through stories

The Heritage Department of Tai Kwun aims to inform visitors about the past and inspire them about the present and the future.

"For example, the Parade Ground is this generous space surrounded by a wonderful collection of different architectural styles from the 1850s to the 1920s. It's a beautiful space for people to wander through - something that's unexpected in the heart of Central," Director of Tai Kwun Timothy Calnin told China Daily newspaper.

The former Barracks Block at Tai Kwun. /VCG Photo

"Around it, there are three very casual and affordable places with outdoor seating: a Chinese tea house, a Cantonese canteen, and a French cafe," he added.

Heritage is not only architecture and artifacts but also people and their stories.

According to the official website of Tai Kwun, the heritage offerings include eight designated heritage storytelling spaces, and passageways with heritage-related stories, as well as over 20 Tai Kwun tales, building histories, seasonal hidden stories, and events.

What to expect at Tai Kwun?

"It's an extraordinary combination where the primary focus is on heritage and the arts, as well as giving audiences wonderful experiences, but supported by a great range of commercial businesses," said Calnin.

The former Central Police Station. /VCG Photo

From theatrical performances and movie screenings to dance and music events, a variety of programs have been carefully designed to add value to visitors' experiences and bring life to the venue.

"It's those sorts of things that I think will make it a place that people will come back to, time and again," Calnin indicated.

(Cover: The former Central Police Station [L] and Barracks Block [R]. /VCG Photo)

(with input from China Daily)