OWL Magazine Korea

Hong Kong, Experience the Old Vibe in Sai Ying Pun

Located to the west of Central, the central area of Hong Kong Island, “Sai Ying Pun” is just two subway stops away from Central Station. While not far in terms of distance from Central Station, it exudes a completely different atmosphere compared to the bustling Central area.

“Sai Ying Pun, Exuding an Old-World Charm in the Western Part of Hong Kong Island”

Sai Ying Pun is a district found in the western part of Hong Kong Island. Using the MTR subway station as a reference, it’s situated after Kennedy Town, the westernmost area, and following Hong Kong University. It’s just two subway stops away from Central.

While it might be expected to have a similar atmosphere to the central district due to its proximity, Sai Ying Pun turns out to have an entirely distinct vibe.

One can find many high-rise buildings in pastel hues that evoke an old-world charm, giving off an authentic local Hong Kong atmosphere.

“Numerous Shops Selling Dried Seafood on ‘Mui Fong Street'”

In the Sai Ying Pun area, you can come across a street named ‘Mui Fong Street,’ which is known for its numerous shops selling dried seafood. Mui Fong Street connects from the main road where trams run to small alleys leading uphill. This alley is particularly rich in shops specializing in dried seafood, resulting in the pervasive aroma of these products throughout the street.

Given the abundance of stores specializing in dried seafood, it’s common to encounter market vendors in this area.

“Sai Ying Pun’s High Street”

Sai Ying Pun is a relatively recently acclaimed area in Hong Kong. It’s often referred to as a small SOHO, with Hong Kong’s SOHO standing for ‘South of Hollywood Road.’ This area is reminiscent of Seoul’s Hongdae and is known for its trendy cafes and restaurants.

In Sai Ying Pun, the high street is also called a small SOHO and has gained recent popularity. The reason lies in the presence of an outdoor escalator similar to the Mid-Level Escalator found in the SOHO area. However, the atmosphere surrounding this escalator is different from what you’d find in the SOHO area, and it exudes a more budget-friendly vibe.

“Local Areas with Butcher Shops, Markets, and More”

Sai Ying Pun emanates a distinct local Hong Kong atmosphere, with various establishments like butcher shops and markets scattered around. This area is renowned for its affordable food options, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants offering great value for money.

Hong Kong is often dubbed a city for food lovers, and Michelin-starred restaurants can be found throughout the city.

The area has an old-world feel, with many of Hong Kong’s characteristic high-rise buildings. This gives it a somewhat dystopian vibe, akin to the feeling of a cityscape from the movie “Alita: Battle Angel.”

Sai Ying Pun is a place where you can experience an unrefined, raw, and genuine side of Hong Kong’s local culture.

“Hong Kong, Sai Ying Pun (SAI YING PUN)”

  • Address: Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong.