Things To Do In Wan Chai: Explore the History in Wan Chai

Wan Chai is a district where the old meets the new, blending Eastern and Western cultures to reflect Hong Kong's unique traditional charm and history. It is home to both well-preserved historical landmarks and revitalised sites that have become part of everyday community life. This seamless blend of innovation and heritage creates a vibrant tapestry while preserving the nostalgic essence of the past.

V Wanchai Serviced Apartment, located on 180 Jaffe Road, Wan Chai, is just a 4-minute walk from the Wan Chai MTR station, offering convenient access to explore the area's rich cultural mix. In this article, we'll guide you through some of Wan Chai's key historical sites and revitalised attractions, letting you experience the district's multifaceted identity and soak in its historical charm.

The Blue House Cluster and Wah To Hospital

The Blue House, located on Stone Nullah Lane in Wan Chai, was originally the site of Wah To Hospital. This significant institution reflects the early history of the development of Chinese healthcare in Hong Kong and serves as an important part of the collective memory of the Wan Chai community. Built in 1867, Wah To Hospital was a community-funded private hospital that provided affordable medical services to Wan Chai residents, showing the spirit of mutual aid within the neighbourhood. As its usage declined, the hospital ceased operations in 1886 and was later converted into a temple dedicated to Wah To, reflecting the community's continued reverence for traditional medicine and beliefs.

Today, the former hospital site is part of the Blue House Cluster, which is distinguished by its iconic blue façade and is designated as a Grade I historic building in Hong Kong. Through a revitalisation project, the historical and cultural value of Wah To Hospital has been preserved. The building now houses the Hong Kong House of Stories, a space that allows visitors to learn about Hong Kong's past. Free guided Cantonese tours of the Blue House are available daily, offering visitors insights into the building's evolution. Regular handicraft workshops are also held, allowing participants to try traditional crafts and appreciate the beauty of bygone craftsmanship. Whether you're exploring the stairwells of the Blue House while listening to heartfelt community stories or getting hands-on with traditional techniques, you'll gain a deeper connection to Wan Chai's culture and history.

Hong Kong House of Stories, Blue House

Address: G/F, 72A Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai

V Wanchai is only an 11-minute walk from the Blue House. On the way, you can enjoy the historic streetscapes of Wan Chai and feel the district's unique blend of old and new along the Wan Chai trail.

Image Source: Tung Wah Group of Hospitals & The Chinese Temples Committee

Hung Shing Temple at Wan Chai

Hung Shing Temple at Wan Chai is located on Queen's Road East, standing amidst the bustling city, its ancient brick and tile walls bearing witness to a long history. According to historical records, Hung Shing Temple was built by the sea between 1847 and 1848. Now, with the advancement of land reclamation, the temple has become a serene place in the land of a bustling city. The main hall of the temple enshrines "God of the South Sea", Hung Shing Yeh. In the past, fishermen in the South China Sea area revered him as their patron saint, praying for peace, good harvests, and favourable weather.

Hung Shing Temple is not only a place for worship but also a valuable historical monument, having been designated a Grade I Historic Building in 2010. Inside the temple, in addition to incense coils for worshippers to pray, many precious cultural relics are preserved, such as stone tools, a statue of Lu Ban, etc., showcasing the history and development of Wan Chai.

Hung Shing Temple, Wan Chai

Address: 129 Queen's Road East, Wan Chai

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

It takes approximately 11 minutes to travel from V Wanchai to Hung Shing Temple, Wan Chai. Experience the tranquility of travelling through time and savour the profound historical heritage.

Woo Cheong Pawn Shop

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Wan Chai, Woo Cheong Pawn Shop is a hidden historical gem. This architectural cluster consists of four pre-war tong lau (tenement buildings) that are connected together and feature distinctive corridor-style balconies that showcase early Hong Kong architectural features. The buildings date back to the late 19th century, with construction spanning from 1888 to the early 1900s, chronicling the history of Wan Chai's urban evolution. As a Grade II historic building, the complex holds both architectural and cultural value. The original "Woo Cheong Pawn Shop" signage remains proudly displayed on the exterior, making it one of the district's most iconic landmarks.

After undergoing conservation and revitalisation under the Urban Renewal Authority, the site has been transformed into a leisure and entertainment venue that combines dining with cultural exhibitions. It now serves as a cultural hub in Wan Chai, offering delightful culinary experiences while celebrating the blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Woo Cheong Pawn Shop

Address: 62 Johnston Road, Wan Chai

It takes only about 8 minutes to walk from V Wanchai to this iconic Wan Chai landmark. While there, you can immerse yourself in its rich history and enjoy a unique mix of heritage, food, and entertainment.

 

Start Your Exploration of History in Wan Chai at V Wanchai

V Wanchai Serviced Apartment, located on Jaffe Road in Wan Chai, offers a range of spacious and stylish studio suites, including garden studio suites. These thoughtfully designed rooms allow guests to embrace greenery and serenity amidst the city's hustle and bustle, offering a tranquil and relaxing lifestyle. Each suite is fully furnished with high-quality furniture, high-speed Wi-Fi, spacious and modern bathrooms, and fully equipped private kitchens, providing everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay.

If you're interested in short-term leasing options, feel free to call 3602 2388 or fill out a form to enquire.

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