Chungking Mansions, Hong Kong

5 years ago

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Accomodation-Hotel Diverse-Market Diverse-Shopping

Construction of Chungking Mansions was completed in 1961, and the intention was for the building to be a residential complex. Today, it is a maze and interesting combination of low-budget hotels and guest houses (with 1980 rooms in total), shops and stalls - serving the public as well as exporting wholesalers. Its unique atmosphere and meeting of varied cultures makes for an interesting venue to explore. Acting as a point of congregation for Hong Kong's ethnic minorities, Chungking Mansions features African bistros, south-east asian curry houses, sari stores, mobile phone stores, clothes outlets and shops selling parallel goods. With 17 floors and 5 different blocks, the building is located in one of Hong Kong's busiest districts. Everyone is here to make money - and the place has a real buzz about it. There are 3 shopping malls in Chungking Mansions - all of which can be accessed via Nathan Road - Cke Shopping Mall, Wood House and the main arcade. Be aware of your surroundings when visiting the building - scammers operate in the area, as well as drug dealers. Security has been stepped up in recent years, and today there are 100s of actively monitored security cameras - covering over 70% of the building (including the lifts). Until recently, local residents were wary of stepping inside. Get ready to be bombarded by touts beckoning you into their restaurant or shop - it's all part of the atmosphere. Photo Credits: By Corekimern12 - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=6203082