What comes up to your mind when it comes to Chongking Mansion? What are the keywords?
I think I have already demonstrated the common reaction of people of my parents’ generation in my previous blog. What about people of my age? Are they as thrilled as I am?
When I mention Chongking Mansion, the reactions from my peers are often ones of piqued interest and curiosity. “Where have you been this weekend?” they’ll ask, eyes widening. “How was it like? Were you stared at? Did you speak Cantonese or English there?” The questions come rapid-fire, accompanied by an unmistakable sense of intrigue. Many even express a desire to join me on a visit, eager to experience this mysterious building for themselves.
As a member of the millennial generation in Hong Kong, I share this fascination with Chongking Mansion. As I stumbled upon the inside of the “bear cave” for the very first time in my life, I’ll admit to feeling a jolt of adrenaline. The initial greeting of a few curious stares at the entrance did little to deter my excitement. In a city as judgmental as Hong Kong can be, I’ve grown accustomed to the occasional sidelong glance, I shall gladly take that as a “Hong Kong style welcome”, although not from your usual Chinese uncles and aunties.
What I found inside, however, was far from intimidating. The space radiated an energetic, welcoming, lively vibe – bright, neat, and catering to every conceivable need. It was a veritable cultural kaleidoscope, with diverse stores and food stalls that transported me directly to the heart of Southeast Asia, to get to know better the people who belongs to the same city as I do. The scents of exotic spices mingled with the easy camaraderie of the stallholders, who exuded a palpable pride in their wares and a willingness to share their heritage.
In that moment, I realized that Chongking Mansion is not merely a building, but a sanctuary – for the communities that call it home, and perhaps for all Hongkongers who seek to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant diversity. As I left the building and headed home, a thought struck me: Hong Kong, with its long history as an international hub, has the potential to become a true showcase for the myriad cultures that converge within its borders.
My peers, many of whom have had the privilege of traveling the world, are well-positioned to appreciate the value of this diversity. We have had the opportunity to witness firsthand the richness that comes from embracing different traditions and perspectives if we seek. Now, we must turn our gaze inward, to the hidden gems like Chongking Mansion that are right under our noses. By celebrating the unique facets of our city, we can transform Hong Kong into a place where all cultures are free to shine and share their distinct identities.
[To be continued…]