North Point presents a unique world of its own, offering an intriguing blend of history and culture. Strolling along King's Road, one immediately observes the absence of British colonial influences, except for the road name, while embracing the distinctive social character that defines the area.
Historically, North Point has served as a refuge for those fleeing war and unrest, with numerous "temporary" halfway houses established during the mid-20th century evolving into permanent residences for immigrants from Shanghai, Fujian, as well as overseas Chinese hailing from the Philippines and Indonesia. Over time, these diverse groups have shaped the captivating cultural mosaic that now defines this northernmost enclave of Hong Kong Island.
It is easy to overlook North Point's past as a vibrant entertainment hub and a pivotal industrial center in the city, as the forces of modernization led to the gradual decline of these pillars of local life, starting in the 1980s. Furthermore, some of the dilapidated structures in the area played significant roles in the tumultuous clashes between the British colonial government and leftist factions during the 1967 riots. Despite its unassuming layout, North Point is brimming with compelling stories and distinctive urban vistas that vividly illustrate the complex dynamics and often paradoxical underpinnings of this metropolis.
Our tour will also encompass an overview of the iconic State Theatre, the oldest surviving standalone theater in Hong Kong Island. This historic venue now stands as a vital and captivating conservation project, and we will gladly share our experiences from our involvement in its conservation advocacy.
The Speaker
Paul C.Y. Chan holds a Bachelor of Laws Degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Laws from the University of Hong Kong, a Master of Philosophy from the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), and a Master of Science Degree in Comparative Politics from the London School of Economics and Political Science.
He was once a part-time lecturer at the Department of Government and Public Administration at CUHK, Political Assistant to Secretary for Food and Health, HKSAR Government (2008 to 2012) and a presenter and commentator at Radio Television Hong Kong.
Paul is also a founding member of the Roundtable group and Co-founder & CEO of Walk In Hong Kong, a cultural enterprise that curates immersive and memorable experiences. He is also involved in the conservation campaign of the State Theatre in North Point, Former Service Reservoir in Bishop Hill, and recently 190 Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui.
PROGRAMME DETAILS
Meeting Time: Group meets at 2:45 pm, Sunbeam Theatre, North Point. The tour starts at 3:00 pm for 2 hours without a break.
Itinerary: Start at Sunbeam Theatre > Kiu Kwan Mansion > Chun Yeung Street > Ching Wah Street > State Theatre (overlooking in the opposite street) > End at Oil Street Art Space (10 mins interactive talk about the history of the State Theatre)
Admission: $260 for members, $320 for guests /non-members Registration: Please email <membership@royalasiaticsociety.org.hk> in advance to register your attendance.
The tour has a capped capacity and requires pre- registration and confirmation upon receipt of payment.
The details of the payment methods will be emailed to those members who email us for booking.
Registration will be closed at 12:00 noon 19 Oct. No walk-in guests allowed.
Please assess your personal mobility for a 2-hour walking journey.
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This tour is operated by Walk In Hong Kong, a licensed cultural enterprise with a strong social mission.
Participants are reminded tour details as follows:
What to wear/bring: Comfortable clothing and shoes for the walk. Bring an umbrella, a bottle of water and some snacks just in case.
Bad Weather Policy: The walk will be cancelled if the Red/ Black Rainstorm warning or Typhoon no. 8 signal or above is hoisted 3 hours before the walk. Cancellation will be decided no later than 2.5 hours before the tour. You will be fully refunded in this case.
Wireless receivers: It will be used to conduct the tour. Please feel free to bring your own earphone with 3.5mm jack. The guide will provide spare earphones.