[2024 Hong Kong Attraction] Travel Guide for Tai Kwun (Updated Nov)
Theater
Art Museums
Historical Sites
Historical Architectures
Address:
10 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Opening times:
Opens at 8:00-23:00Open
Recommended sightseeing time:
2-3 hours
Phone:
+852 3559 2600
Hello Tai Kwun
Tai Kwun, located in Hong Kong, is a cultural heritage center and arts hub situated in the revitalized Central Police Station compound. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit:
1. Historical Exploration: Start with the historical tours to learn about the compound’s past, which includes its use as a police station, magistracy, and prison. The site’s architecture and exhibits provide insight into Hong Kong’s colonial history.
2. Art Exhibitions: Visit the various galleries and art spaces within Tai Kwun. They host contemporary art exhibitions and installations from local and international artists.
3. Cultural Programs: Check out Tai Kwun’s schedule for performances, workshops, and talks. They often feature music, dance, theater, and art-related activities.
4. Architecture and Design: Explore the beautifully restored buildings and enjoy the blend of colonial architecture with modern design elements.
5. Dining and Shopping: Relax at one of the on-site cafes or restaurants. There are also boutique shops where you can find unique gifts and art-related merchandise.
6. Outdoor Spaces: Spend some time in the open-air spaces and courtyards. They often host outdoor events and offer a pleasant environment to unwind.
Tai Kwun offers a unique mix of historical depth and modern cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in art, history, and heritage.#tai_kwun #hongkong
Adt39
【Central】Tai Kwun: Melodic Imprints - Joseph Koo x James Wong x Cantopop
The Central Police Station Compound (Tai Kwun) frequently hosts special exhibitions. This time, the exhibition is titled 'Melodic Imprints: Joseph Koo x James Wong x Cantopop,' exploring the close collaboration of two giants in the Cantonese pop music scene—composer Joseph Koo and lyricist James Wong—over more than three decades.
The exhibition area is meticulously designed to reflect different eras from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, recreating the evolution of public broadcasting formats, home audio systems, and portable music players. Visitors can travel through time and experience Hong Kong's development through various setups and selected songs.
📖Exhibition: Melodic Imprints: Joseph Koo x James Wong x Cantopop
⭐️Location: Duplex Exhibition Room, Tai Kwun
📆Exhibition Dates: July 11, 2024, to August 28, 2024
💰Admission: Free Entry
Cw_life
Tai Kwun in Central | A Leisurely Stroll Through Art and History.
In the bustling urban rhythm of Central, there is an ancient building like a time capsule, offering a comfortable slow-living experience. Tai Kwun, the complex that once served as the Police Headquarters, Central Magistracy, and the former Victoria Prison, has now transformed into a hub for art and historical exchange.
Wandering through it, one can feel the ambiance of different eras with every step. In the renovated buildings, modern art exhibitions shine alongside historical artifacts, as if walking through a time tunnel. Here, both contemporary art enthusiasts and history buffs can find their own sanctuary.
Take your time, quietly appreciate each exhibit, and savor every piece of text. Don't miss the alleys within Tai Kwun, where hidden cafes and bookstores provide perfect spots to relax. With a cup of coffee and a book in hand, time seems to stand still.
The outdoor spaces of Tai Kwun are also noteworthy. On sunny days, picnicking on the grass and gazing at the coexistence of Central's skyscrapers with historical buildings is a sight that marvels at the beauty of change over time.
Tai Kwun, a space where history and art coexist, truly allows one to appreciate the beauty of living life slowly.
Dinglalalalala
Must visit the heart of Central
#winhkflight #Hongkong #Central #discoverhongkong #freehotelstay
Tai Kwun is a place where you get to understand the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison back in late 19th century. They provide free tour guide but pre-booking is required, you may check their website for details. You can also find restaurants and shopping in this historical building. I wish to revisit this place for the events and exhibitions.
Business Hours: 8am - 11pm
Address:10 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Reasons to Recommend: Historical and informative
Mintymin
Enjoy Christmas at Tai Kwun @Central HK
#christmastrip #tai_kwun #central #hk
Apart from going to Lan Kwai Fong, the atmosphere at Tai Kwun nearby is also very suitable for Christmas.
The colour Christmas tree available attracted a lot people to take photos. The European-style buildings at Tai Kwun also matches the Christmas atmosphere well.
How to go there: From Exit D of Central station, turn right at the intersection for Lan Kwai Fong, and then walk uphill along the Central Escalator system to reach Tai Kwun.
TripGoYeah
Tai Kwun's Prison Cells 🗝️🚪
#visithongkong
Step into the haunting past of Tai Kwun's prison cells in Hong Kong and experience a gripping journey through the annals of justice and confinement.
🔍 Tip 1: Take a Guided Tour 🚶♀️🚶♂️ Join a guided tour of the prison cells to gain a deeper understanding of the harsh realities faced by inmates in the past. Expert guides will share captivating stories and anecdotes, shedding light on the history, living conditions, and infamous inmates who once occupied these cells.
🔗 Tip 2: Engage with Interactive Exhibits 🎭📸 Engage with the interactive exhibits that recreate the experiences of prisoners, allowing you to step into their shoes. Discover the hardships they endured, the daily routines they followed, and the struggles they faced while incarcerated. Gain a new perspective on the concept of freedom.
Michaela (@uncoveringcities)
Discover Historic Tai Kwun 🏰🌸
#visithongkong
Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural charm of Tai Kwun in Hong Kong. Once a colonial police compound, this revitalized heritage site now houses a vibrant arts and heritage center, offering a captivating blend of history, art, and entertainment.
📜 Tip 1: Explore the Heritage Trail 🚶♀️🚶♂️ Embark on the Heritage Trail to delve into the intriguing past of Tai Kwun. Wander through the restored buildings and courtyards, uncovering stories of Hong Kong's colonial era and the evolution of its justice system. Don't miss the old prison cells and the stunning Parade Ground.
🖼️ Tip 2: Admire Art Exhibitions 🎨🌟 Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Tai Kwun Contemporary, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions and installations by renowned local and international artists. Explore the dynamic gallery spaces and witness the intersection of art and culture.
🍽️ Tip 3: Indulge in Culinary Delights 🍽️ Treat your taste buds to a culinary adventure at Tai Kwun's diverse range of restaurants and cafes. From authentic local cuisine to international flavors, satisfy your cravings while enjoying the charming ambiance of this historic site.
Michaela (@uncoveringcities)
Centre for Heritage and Art in Hong Kong
Tai Kwun means “Big Station” in Chinese, contains a wealth of history.
There are 3 declared monuments; the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and the Victoria Prison.
In 1841, the first Magistrate House with jail blocks were built to maintain law and order. The site was further developed under the British Colonial Rules to meet the needs of the law enforcement requests.
In 1995, the significance was officially recognised and was listed as Declared Monuments.
In 2019, Tai Kwun received the Award of Excellence UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards of Cultural Honour of the Prestige Awards.
In 2008, it was revitalised and later in 2018 the site was officially opened to public.
Currently, Tai Kwun is an leading international art hub in Asia in rich heritage and highlights in extensive art exhibitions from Hong Kong and beyond. It also houses various shops, cafes and restaurants.
To witness the historical site, register for a free guided tour provided daily at their website.
#本地遊 #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #Taikwun #passionpassport #celebratewithtrip #historicalsite #historicalwalk #historicalplace
YuppiJe
Central new popular check-in spot ~ Tai Kwun!
Sorry, I'm still in Central. I went to the Grand Hall as I had heard of it. The Grand Hall is located on Hollywood Road in Central, Hong Kong. Within the complex, there are three historical sites: the Central Police Station, the former Central Magistracy, and Victoria Prison.
The Central Police Station, a classical building originally three stories high, was built in 1864. On December 20, 2005, the police held a farewell ceremony and officially handed over the Central Police Station. The original site is adjacent to the former Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison, both of which have a long history. It is now a historical and cultural tourist area, as well as an emerging popular check-in spot.
weightymuslin
Hong Kong | A nighttime pier and a daytime art museum.
After three years, the first thing I did when I returned to Hong Kong was to take the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour at night, eat Fortnum & Mason ice cream on the roadside with friends, drink iced lemon tea in a cha chaan teng, and stroll around Tsim Sha Tsui. But this time, I accidentally stumbled upon Tai Kwun, which includes a police station, a prison, a contemporary art museum, Cool!
Hong Kong, China
Aurora.Peterson.84
Behind Bars 🤍
Prison Yard HK (Block E, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong Island) is also one of its oldest building complexes. Incorporating the Former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison, the earliest structures of the compound date back to 1864. Originally intended for the sterner purpose of maintaining law and order, Tai Kwun’s historic declared monuments, along with architecturally spectacular new structures, now house restaurants, cafes, shops and galleries, and the area is dedicated to cultural and recreational activities. Local people and visitors alike now stroll at leisure around the parade ground where the police once drilled, and the prison yard where felons exercised. #prisonyardhk #taikwun #hk
em.em
Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts
Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts a dynamic cultural lineup and two new aluminum-clad cubes: a 200-seat theater and a contemporary art gallery.
Its oldest buildings preceded Hong Kong’s founding by only a decade. British bureaucrats and policemen called it the Central Police Station, but Cantonese Hong Kongers called it the "Big Station," Tai Kwun (大館).
To get to Hollywood Road by MTR, disembark at Central Station, exit the station at Exit D1 (Google Maps), then walk up Pottinger Street to the Pottinger Gate into Tai Kwun.
Jisselle
Tai Kwun - Central
Very interesting historical buildings 🥰 - The site of Tai Kwun includes the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison - a very important part of Hong Kong. Take approximately 10-15 mins from Central MTR Station - Exit E.
Traurney
Tai Kwun: former police station turns into cultural centre
Tai Kwun was originally constructed as Central police station, magistracy court, and Victoria prison altogether in one area in respond to massive migration of Mainland China people to Hong Kong in 1920s. Now, the area has been redeveloped into a cultural, food and shopping area and become one of the famous tourist attraction in Hong Kong.
When you go there, you could learn a lot about the history of the building, how they slowly constructed more building to respond to the need to serve society, the justice system, even how the prisoners lived inside prison.
Other than that, you can also have fancy meal and visit the art center there.
To go to Tai Kwun, you can get off at Hong Kong station and walk to Exchange Square. Then take bus no 12 and get of at Tai Kwun.
#culturaltrip
Jenniferdwi
Stunning Light Show
This is a wonderful light art exhibition at the JC contemporary area of the historic Tai Kwun which used to be a police station. #taikwun
Eat Drink Be Merry
HONGKONG BEST NEW ARTS HUB
free heritage site’s exhibitions and performances.
Hong Kong: the former Central Police Station, the Former Central Magistracy, and the Victoria Prison.#hongkong #heritage
Febyy Task
Visit Tai Kwun - Centre for Heritage and Arts 🎭 — Restaurants, Shops, Art & Heritage buildings
Tai Kwun is the former Central Police Station of Hong Kong, known as Victoria Gaol, and the longest-running prison in the history of Hong Kong. It is located at the eastern end of Hollywood Road, in Central. Victorian prison was completed on 4 August 1841 and finally shut in early 2006. It was redeveloped and reopened as a cultural, shopping and dining destination in 2018.
There are a number of historical buildings you can enter and see the prison cells in which prisoners used to live in. There is a building which holds a great deal of contemporary art and a number of high-quality restaurants with indoor and outdoor seating in the courtyard. There are also a few souvenir shops.
Tai Kwun can be reached by the escalators and stairs up to Mid Levels. It is located at the end of the staircase on Hollywood and Old Bailey Street.
#createwithtrip #staycation #culturewalk #hk #hongkong #central #heritage
wirl_robin04
Center for heritage and arts
#scenicspotguide #prison yard#the past
#chilling moments at some of the cafes
Travel Solo
Tai Kwun opened in late 2018 as a centre for heritage and arts located just off of the Mid-Levels escalator in Old Town Central. It’s used to be the Central Police Station compound which is made up of three parts: Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.
Now, visitors enjoy the large open square surrounded by bars and cafes. It’s a nice place to take a break when in Hong Kong with kids after sightseeing around the area. Shops featuring local artists and designers flank the square. Check the event calendar to see what’s on display in the various galleries during your visit.
#summervacation#beachvacation#hikingtrails#hotelstay#urbanexplorer
Beachbabe
#mynovgetaway #hongkong
Historical building nicely transformed into a venue showing not only history but also art and culture. Love the cool lines found around the complex. definitely worth a visit.
mexi
Explore the beauty of monuments and art galleries ~
is located in the heart of Central. It is Hong Kong's largest monumental conservation project, with 16 historic buildings.
Here, you can see a building with a long history, you can know the history of justice and law enforcement in this place, or you can walk around in an artistic atmosphere to see a variety of exhibitions.
Besides the Jockey Club Cube and the Jockey Club Arts Square are new, others are buildings with historical heritage, so the goal is very clear, like to watch art exhibitions, so pay more attention to the Jockey Club Cube and the Jockey Club Art, who likes to understand architectural monuments, is to visit other buildings besides these two buildings.
Of course, if you have enough time, you will have to visit it all, it will take half a day.
YoyoMo.
The Hong Kong Grand Pavilion is located in Central and was built in 1841. It is one of Hong Kong's major heritage conservation projects. It is hard to imagine that there is such a large building complex in this place, including the former Central District. A total of 16 historic buildings, including the Police Station, the former Central Magistracy and the Victoria Prison, have also witnessed more than 170 years of history in Hong Kong.
The first impression of the big hall, as its name, is very "big", big enough to go shopping for a long time!
Must hit the card point 1 Central Square
on both sides of the central square, is a light beige building with red brick retro buildings and arched windows, used to be the police headquarters building and barracks.
must hit the card 2 old prison
through the barracks, is the old prison location, where most of the history remains, visitors can enter the prison, experience a prisoner's window life.
Must Punch 3 Jockey Club and Jockey Club Cube
These two new buildings are unrivaled and they will be the gathering place for future avant-garde art exhibitions.
Focus: The rotating staircase of the Jockey Club is the most photographed location, remember not to miss it.
Address: No. 10, Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
Subway: Exit D2 of Central Station, follow the navigation for about 10 minutes
Tickets: Free, but you need to book in advance, choose time The section goes, after the online appointment, the QR code is entered when entering the market. Sometimes people will write at the door and they can enter without an appointment. When we go, it rains, there are very few people, so you can go in directly, look at luck. It is best to be prepared in advance.
elene137.
The Central Police Station Complex, also known as the "Grand Pavilion", consists of three buildings, the Old Central Police Station, the Victoria Prison and the former Central Magistracy, a one-stop legal institution. I have not seen the Raiders here before. It was originally because Hong Kong is the largest cultural heritage conservation and activation project in Hong Kong. After 10 years of activation, it was only opened to the public more than a month ago. When I accidentally became the first few people to "eat crabs," I was a little bit smug about this misunderstanding.
Central Police Station Complex Tips:
Address: 10 Hollywood Road, Central.
Arrival mode: Exit M of MTR Central Station.
Tickets: You can enter the tour for free after making an appointment on the official website.
Recommendation: You can take pictures during the day. There will be a light show in the evening. do not miss it.
karenluna.
The Hong Kong Grand Hall is located in the downtown area of Central, adjacent to Lan Kwai Fong, including the former Central District Police Station, the Central Magistracy and the Victoria Prison. There is a perfect blend of old and new buildings to show you the history of Hong Kong during the British rule. As a new type of urban exploration space, it has been opened to the public. It is necessary to make an appointment in advance on the official website, but recently it was found that it was directly accessible without reservation. In addition to the historic buildings, two new buildings, the Jockey Club Cube and the Jockey Club Arts Square, have been added and exhibitions are often held. Many Hong Kong film works have been filmed here. When you travel to Hong Kong, you may wish to take a look.
Angeline Yang.
Remarkable Museum: Tai Kwun Prison
#hongkongtrip
In the eastern part of Hong Kong's Hollywood Road, an impressive walled complex rises above the sidewalk, housing a former prison, a courthouse and a police station. Tai Kwun was certainly not a place that inspired joy. But recent landscaping work worth $484 million has changed the situation.
The oldest buildings predated the founding of Hong Kong in just ten years. Among the honored "guests" in his prison cells was the Vietnamese revolutionary Ho Chi Minh. British bureaucrats and police officers called it the Central Police Station, but Hong Kong Cantonese called it the "Big Precinct", Tai Kwun (大館).
Today, you won't find any judges, police officers, or prisoners on Tai Kwun's 300,000 square foot grounds. Its murky justice facilities have since been replaced by shops, restaurants, bars, exhibition grounds and spectacular historical events, turning Tai Kwun into a "Heritage and Art Center" and an important stop for tourists visiting Hong Kong's Soho district.
The existing buildings have been preserved, and some gaps have been filled with new ones. Architecture that complements the overall appearance of the site. The restored facade uses 15,000 bricks made at the same brick factory in England as the original bricks from a century ago.
The buildings in Tai Kwun are surrounded by two courtyards - a larger Front Courtyard in the north and a smaller Prison Courtyard on the south side. These two courtyards are among the largest open spaces in the Center and are great places to observe people.
The oldest building in Tai Kwun faces the Parade Ground. Built in 1864, the barracks block served as housing for the new Hong Kong Police Force. It now houses the Tai Kwun Heritage Gallery, a Visitor Center, and many restaurants and shops.
The police headquarters is located directly across the Parade Ground from the barracks block (pictured above). Built in 1919, the Headquarters block contained facilities suited to the multinational nature of the Territory's police force, from a Sikh Gurdwara to separate canteens for Indian and Chinese officers.
The mango tree, standing at the western end of the Parade Ground, was deliberately preserved because of its historical connection with ordinary police officers. The patrolmen believed that when a mango tree bears a lot of fruit, it portends a lot of increases this year.
MaxS
Crazy for Art in Old Town Central Hong Kong
#travellerswonderland
Old Town Central is truly a treasure trove for art lovers, and my self-guided walk through this vibrant Hong Kong neighborhood was nothing short of inspiring. From its eclectic galleries to its colorful street murals, the area pulses with creativity at every turn.
Starting my journey, I found myself surrounded by stunning street art on the alley walls—each mural telling its own story and adding life to the streets. The artwork, often bold and vivid, blended traditional Chinese motifs with modern expressions, giving Old Town Central its unique character.
Next, I wandered into some of the local galleries. Each gallery showcased a mix of contemporary and traditional pieces, ranging from avant-garde installations to classic Chinese ink paintings. What I loved most was the diversity of the artwork, reflecting both local talent and international influence.
Beyond visual arts, the sounds of live music filled the air as I passed by small venues tucked between the bustling streets. These music spots added another layer to the area’s artistic charm, making Old Town Central a feast for all the senses.
Of course, no walk in Hong Kong would be complete without food. Old Town Central offers a mix of trendy cafes, local eateries, and fusion restaurants. I indulged in some street food—crispy egg waffles and sweet tofu pudding—which was both delicious and comforting.
With its dynamic blend of art, culture, and cuisine, Old Town Central is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the artistic soul of Hong Kong.
#OldTownCentral #CrazyForArt #StreetArtHongKong #HongKongGalleries #CulturalWalk #FoodAndArt #HongKongTourism #SelfGuidedWalk #ArtLovers #ExploreHongKong
Aaron Loo
A Glimpse into Hong Kong's Past: Exploring Tai Kwun
#chinatrip
Tai Kwun, once a police and military compound, has been beautifully transformed into a cultural hub that seamlessly blends historical architecture with contemporary art. A visit here is like stepping back in time while embracing the city's vibrant present.
Upon entering Tai Kwun, I was immediately captivated by the stunning architecture. The Central Police Station, with its imposing façade and towering clock tower, is a sight to behold. The nearby Police Married Quarters offer a glimpse into the lives of the officers who once resided here. As I wandered through the courtyards, I couldn't help but imagine the bustling activity that once filled these spaces.
Tai Kwun's transformation into a cultural hub is evident in its diverse offerings. The Jockey Club Creative Arts Centre houses galleries, studios, and performance spaces, showcasing a variety of exhibitions and events. I had the pleasure of attending a contemporary art exhibition that featured thought-provoking pieces by local and international artists.
One of the highlights of my visit was the Tai Kwun Theatre. The historic building has been meticulously restored and now serves as a venue for performances, screenings, and workshops. I caught a captivating dance performance that showcased the talent and creativity of the local dance scene.
Beyond the arts, Tai Kwun also offers a delightful culinary experience. The complex is home to several restaurants and cafes, serving a variety of cuisines to suit every taste. I enjoyed a leisurely lunch at a charming bistro, savoring delicious food while soaking up the historic atmosphere.
In conclusion, Tai Kwun is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Hong Kong's history and culture. With its stunning architecture, vibrant arts scene, and delectable dining options, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Aaron Loo
TVB fans must-visit spot|Guess which police station this is.
Tai Kwun, located in the heart of Central, Hong Kong, is a unique attraction that combines history, art, and culture. Tai Kwun was originally the site of the Central Police Station Compound. After careful restoration and revitalization, it reopened in 2018 and has become a diverse cultural space that integrates art exhibitions, performing arts, dining, and retail.
Historical Background
The predecessor of Tai Kwun can be traced back to 1841 when the British colonial government established the first prison in Hong Kong here. It gradually developed into a comprehensive building complex including a police station, prison, and court, witnessing more than a century of Hong Kong's rule of law history. These buildings not only carry Hong Kong's judicial memory but also reflect the architectural style of the combination of Chinese and Western, which is an important part of Hong Kong's historical and cultural heritage.
Restoration and Revitalization
In 2006, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government announced that the Central Police Station Compound would be listed as a statutory monument, and then a restoration and revitalization project that lasted for more than ten years began. The project aims to retain the historical appearance of the building while giving it new life and functions. The restored buildings not only restored their former glory but also incorporated modern design elements, becoming a model for Hong Kong's cultural heritage revitalization project.
Culture and Art
Since its opening, Tai Kwun has become an important platform for cultural and artistic activities in Hong Kong. Various art exhibitions, performing arts activities, workshops, and lectures are held here regularly, attracting the participation of many artists, cultural enthusiasts, and tourists. The restaurants and retail stores in Tai Kwun also provide visitors with the opportunity to taste authentic food and buy characteristic products, making Tai Kwun a comprehensive destination that integrates culture, art, and leisure.
Visitor Guide
Tai Kwun is open all year round. It is recommended that visitors check the latest exhibition information and event arrangements through the official website in advance. There are many historical buildings in Tai Kwun for visitors to visit, including the Old Central Police Station, Central Magistracy, and Victoria Prison. Each building has its unique story and historical value. In addition, Tai Kwun also provides guided tours to help visitors better understand the historical background and cultural significance of these buildings.
LuminousCelest7
Tai Kwun
#chinatrip
A nice open space where you can enjoy art galleries, nice weather with the outside seatings available for the public, or nice restaurants located within the area. It is a renovated historical building which is surrounded by tall buildings. It is a rare-find in the sense that, inside the highly populated city and tall buildings, you can really enjoy art and feel isolated even for a couple of hours.
Travela-dic
Tai Kwun Lane
Visit this historical place in Hong Kong when you're around Central. It is located at Hollywood Rd, Mid Levels. Take the long outside escalator or take the stairs going up. There's a restaurant here where you can drink and dine, there's a coffee shop too. It's quite crowded in the late afternoon. The place is quite instagramable. You'll get to know about the history of the place when you visit. Hope for your visit soon. #tai_kwun #prisonyardhk #historic