Mong Kok Tour
The Dark Side of Hong Kong: Mong Kok
At the designated time, we'll meet at Prince Edward Station to delve into the challenges of housing in Hong Kong. From here, we’ll explore why this city has one of the most expensive and least affordable real estate markets in the world. Did you know that a family of three can live in an apartment as small as just 10 square meters (107 sq ft)?
Throughout the tour, we'll go into Portland Street, where the contrast between traditional 4-story buildings and modern 30-story skyscrapers will show you the architectural evolution of the city. This is a palpable reflection of how urbanization has been transforming Hong Kong's neighborhoods.
Our next stop will be a subdivided housing unit on Cedar Street, where you'll gain first-hand experience of living in one of these tiny spaces. We'll learn how soaring prices and a lack of space compel many families to endure precarious living conditions, including the notorious cage houses, which are literally cages for humans.
We'll proceed to Lui Seng Chun, a historic building where we’ll savor herbal tea while hearing stories from locals who are grappling with the daily challenges of the real estate crisis. You'll be amazed by the personal accounts of those struggling to secure decent housing in one of the most unequal cities in the world.
Next, we'll continue our walking tour along Lai Chi Kok Road and Boundary Street, where we'll uncover more examples of subdivided housing that are often hidden in plain sight. As we explore the various types of these extreme dwellings, we'll discuss how gentrification is dramatically transforming the city’s most impoverished neighborhoods.
Finally, we'll arrive at Hai Tan Street, where we'll examine how land sales contribute to the low income tax in Hong Kong, all while social inequality continues to intensify.
Then, we'll conclude this 2-2.5 hour tour at Sham Shui Po Station, having gained insight into the harsh realities faced by thousands of residents in Hong Kong.
More Information
Duration
2h - 2h 30m.
Language
The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.
Included
English–speaking guide
Herbal tea sampling
When to book?
You can book up until 3 hours before the activity as long as there are still places. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Sustainability
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Provider
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Hong Kong Free Tours
Corporate name: Hong Kong Free Tours limited
Pets
Allowed, animals under 10 kg.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 3 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Free cancellation
MTR Prince Edward station
Where does the activity end?
Sham Shui Po station
