Design District Hong Kong (#ddHK), a creative tourism project celebrating culture, launched from December 12, 2024 until February 14, 2025. The event invites visitors to explore Tsuen Wan and Sha Tau Kok, two of Hong Kong’s unique neighborhoods. With the theme “Creative Journey · Infinite Discovery,” the initiative integrates creative elements with local heritage and natural offerings.
Hong Kong's landscape often highlights well-known attractions, leaving neighborhoods like Tsuen Wan and Sha Tau Kok overlooked. This project aims to change that by showcasing these areas through engaging outdoor artworks, running inviting visitors to delve into their artistic and cultural richness.
Spearheaded by the Tourism Commission, this project builds on successful implementations in Wan Chai and Sham Shui Po from 2018 to 2021. Resuming post-pandemic activities, Design District Hong Kong has expanded to include Sha Tau Kok, a serene border town in the city’s Frontier Closed Area. Recent government efforts to promote recreational and ecotourism have revitalized this charming locale.
Tsuen Wan
Coolman Coffeedan
Tsuen Wan, known as the "City of Footbridges," features interconnected elevated walkways. In the project "Coolman x Tsuen Wan," artist Coolman Coffeedan captures the neighborhood's vibrant character at Sai Lau Kok Garden. His cartoon character, Spesh, leads friends on an adventure through Tsuen Wan, exploring landmarks from serene temples to tall buildings, including a charming stop at Spesh’s coffee shop. Along the way, they visit the historic Sam Tung Uk Museum and Shing Mun Country Park, celebrating the area's diversity. Coolman's creations invite visitors to immerse themselves in joyful cultural experiences, celebrating the flavors and traditions of Tsuen Wan.
Zoe Siu: Woven Dreams: Prayers of Modernity
At the historic Sam Tung Uk Museum, knot designer Zoe Siu transforms the exterior walls with "Woven Dreams: Prayers of Modernity." Inspired by the vibrant patterns of the Hakka "Caimen," she blends traditional motifs with modern symbols of luck and love, such as fortune cats and avocados. Using intricate weaving techniques, Zoe amplifies auspicious patterns, creating a captivating composition that celebrates Hakka culture and Hong Kong's heritage.
Cupid’s Koi Garden by ENESS
At Tsuen Wan Park, the Australian design studio ENESS presents "Cupid’s Koi Garden," the world’s first inflatable fountain. This vibrant installation features bright patterns, interactive water jets, and a rich soundscape that delight visitors. Standing over six meters tall, this exuberantly decorative fountain combines classical Cupid statues with whimsical koi, creating a mirage-like presence in the park. Designed to foster love and joy, this interactive installation enhances Tsuen Wan Park as a gathering spot for families and friends.
Tsuen Wan - Shing Mun Country Park
Flowing Nature by Kiki Ji
Nature’s beauty is highlighted in Shing Mun Country Park, where floral artist Kiki Ji from China has created a striking suspended sculpture using traditional bamboo artistry, blending it with the surrounding trees to celebrate craftsmanship and nature.
Sha Tau Kok
Interwoven Horizon by En Iwamura
At Sha Tau Kok Pier, Japanese artist En Iwamura presents "Interwoven Horizons," an installation exploring the connections between the sea, mountains, and celestial bodies. Floating in the water, it harmoniously blends art with nature, highlighting the stunning landscape. Drawing inspiration from Hong Kong's UNESCO Global Geopark, En invites visitors to engage with their environment while enjoying breathtaking views of the nearby islands.
Stories on Wheels by Vivian Ho
At the Sha Tau Kok Promenade Sitting-out Area, "Stories on Wheels" is an innovative installation by Hong Kong artist Vivian Ho that captures the vibrant narratives of the local community. Utilizing a train container as a canvas, Vivian showcases colorful illustrations depicting local shops and festive scenes. Her unique style blends authenticity with surrealism, fostering nostalgia and celebrating the cultural tapestry of Sha Tau Kok. A multimedia immersive experience enhances the narrative, offering glimpses into residents' daily lives.
The Auspicious Dance by Louis To Wun
In Sha Tau Kok Square, Hong Kong artist Louis To Wun presents "The Auspicious Dance," transforming the area into a dynamic stage. His installation merges traditional sculpting techniques with modern design, mimicking the graceful movements of fish to symbolize harmony between humanity and nature. Inspired by local fishermen's customs, To Wun celebrates their deep connection to the sea through vibrant colors and immersive metal art.
Things to Note
Visitors eager to explore Sha Tau Kok will need to secure a special entry permit, capped at 1,000 per day. Once inside, they will find an array of site-specific art installations curated by the Hong Kong design agency Number 2, alongside guided tours, workshops, and craft markets.
With a blend of art, history, and local culture, Design District Hong Kong is transforming Tsuen Wan and Sha Tau Kok into must-visit destinations for those eager to explore the hidden gems of this dynamic city.
For more information visit Hong Kong Design Districts website
