Wan Chai is a vibrant residential and commercial area at the western part of Hong Kong Island. One of the first areas developed in Hong Kong, this densely populated district has it all – known for its old, decaying buildings, prostitution & Suzie Wong – kept alive today in the local bar scene and scores of markets selling food & wares, there is a very real sense of Hong Kong alive and kicking in Wan Chai...
Recommended for: GingerBeers, GingerChungs, GingerDecos
Not recommended for: GingerItas, GingerGuccis
See our general overview on Wan Chai by clicking here or read on for our GingerNetwork Guide with all the latest information, our own recommendations and special offers exclusive to GingerAsia...
Wan Chai Then:
The presence of the Hung Shing Temple (for the God of the Sea) & proximity to the harbour, meant that the early population of Wan Chai consisted mainly of Chinese fishing villagers. As central Hong Kong expanded under British administration, Wan Chai grew and attracted an arty crowd as well as the infamous red-light zone & dockyards in Ship Street and McGregor Street. Indeed the merchandise on the boats was often given in exchange for secs between sailors & local working girls.
Wan Chai Now:
The oldest trade on the planet still goes strong along the bars & clubs of Fenwick Street & Jaffe Road (and beyond!), and the link with prostitution and the ships still prevails as the Wan Chai bars are a favourite stopping destination for the US Navy in addition to the regular customer-base of locals and tourists alike. The Chai also has numerous art & culture venues, including the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre. There is shopping a plenty, with new modern developments in-progress, at times controversially, as the buildings of Old Wan Chai often have to make way for the new. Do not miss the Wan Chai Market along the side streets of Johnston Road. Also not be missed is the Star Ferry from Wan Chai over to Tsim Sha Tsui on Kowloon side.
Little known Facts:
- Wan Chai means “cove” in Cantonese but was originally known as Ha Wan (bottom ring)...
- Wan Chai is often referred to by local expats as “The Wanch” or “The Chai”...
- HK Convention & Exhibition Centre was the site of the Hong Kong handover ceremony in 1997...
- Bottoms-Up bar (moved from TST) appears in the James Bond movie The Man With The Golden Gun...
Be sure to check back regularly as this section is frequently updated with the latest local information...