Agent Of Good: Arts for Good’s Amanda Hong Sun is on a mission to inspire and connect the next generations

For the Founder and Director of Arts for Good Foundation, a value-driven social enterprise established in 2020 to foster inclusion through the power of the arts, appreciating treasured moments comes top of the list.

“Time has always been the most beautiful thing in my life, personally or professionally. I always see things first on time value, and how things change,” she says as we meet at the recently opened ESG Innovation Hub in Central and contemplate life against the backdrop of superb city and harbour views. Time transcends materialistic worth as it can never be replaced, and this intangible aspect undoubtedly appeals to her altruistic nature. “I value quality time, quality connection, quality relationships, which are all my priorities,” she shares.

Sun has spent her own time wisely as she embarked on a “self-discovery path” through life. Her family in China had a great passion for sports and wanted her to start her career by working for the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Perhaps with this seed implanted in her mind, she pursued recreation and leisure studies at a university in Canada.

A deeper love

Her time spent in Canada fostered another, deeper interest: art. Though her early years had spawned a love of a “making culture”, art had never been considered a career, not even as a hobby. “I developed my deeper love [for art] in Canada; there were many international arts festivals and great museums that connected me with nature and communities’ stories that I grew up with,” she explains. “I started knowing and building connections with artists, some from Hong Kong as well.”

Her love of the arts blossomed over the years, but making it her career was never her first thought. She just kept searching for what made her feel fulfilled at each stage of her life, perhaps changing her perspectives and making new decisions. “I think life brings arts to me, or the other way round,” she says wistfully and rather philosophically.

Giving back

During her 12 years in Hong Kong, Sun has been involved in education. As a researcher at the Education University of Hong Kong and later the Hong Kong Academy for Gifted Education, she worked in programme evaluation and learned the theories that underpin it and how arts play a key role in education. She has also undertaken a multitude of voluntary and charity work. “Giving and serving others is important to me,” she says. “Someone once told me, ‘life has no meaning if we can’t serve others anymore’. I found it matters a lot to me.”

All of this work and life experience played an embryonic role in her Arts for Good social enterprise. From daily observations of people she met from diverse demographic backgrounds – including children and youths from subdivided housing, expat families and local school students – she would endeavour to understand the deep- rooted causes of social issues and imagine a different future.

Art in society

“Through Arts for Good, we bring new perspectives of looking at social issues and how we can sustainably and multidimensionally create differences through and with the arts,” she says, expressing her mission statement. The foundation aims to provide high-quality value-based and age- appropriate art viewing, art-integrated learning projects and community service experiences for students aged from 9 to 22 in Hong Kong. Children and youths – society’s future leaders – are the target and projects are organised throughout the year, all tailored to the students they serve, as well as meeting stakeholders’ needs.

More generally, she is a passionate advocate of the power of art in society. “The arts raise perspectives of how we perceive each other, and how we interact with each other. We look at art in a civic landscape; it builds communities and helps to find our commonalities and inspire connections,” she attests.

Agent of change

Sun believes the timing of her venture was spot on. “Compared to 13 years ago when I came to Hong Kong, I think young people are now seeking more than just a paid job. For example, they want career diversity, maturity of our cultural offerings, diversity of life choices; young people are more seeking meaning and purpose in life compared to a decade ago.”

She stresses that she does not feel there is a general deficiency in cultural learning and arts appreciation in Hong Kong; it is the relevancy and agency of this learning that are her prime considerations. Her enterprise has raised fresh viewpoints on the social power of art and brought with it a new definition of social inclusion.

“We are a change agent; we need to keep changing in order to meet the needs of the young people we serve together with our stakeholders. That is [one] reason why we wanted Arts for Good to be a social enterprise, not an NGO,” she says.

Common humanity

Her enterprise educates and advocates that young people be respectful of any differences in our communities and ethical in the treatment of others. Part of its mission is to foster common cultural identities for future generations, and engage children and youths to seek common humanity values and make positive changes together. She notes: “They are not told or taught by us or by any experts. They are the ones to tell their stories for their own future in Hong Kong. We are here to support and to facilitate.”

Arts for Good is possibly the first social enterprise to aim for sustainability goals through and with the arts in Hong Kong. “We have specific sustainable goals that we hope to achieve with our key stakeholders in a long timeframe,” she says.

Inspiring fellows

Having been accepted for the Singapore International Foundation Arts for Good fellowship last year, Sun gained deeper and broader insight into how art has helped people living in less developed countries and communities. “I heard many inspiring stories, like one of my fellows from Vietnam who is a young hip-hop dancer. His story of saving lives of street children through hip-hop dancing, and reducing the crime rate within his community is inspiring and touching,” she reveals.

Stories such as these have made her more aware of the privileges that come with living in Hong Kong. “There are many children and youths who have suffered from all sorts of challenges and even threats in this troubled world, which is just heartbreaking. We just need to do our bit to make it a better place,” she says with a natural warmth that radiates from deep inside her soul.

Having now found her own niche in the arts and social impact, would she recommend it as a career choice? Flashing a winning smile, she says: “I advocate career diversity and choices no matter what [a young person wants to do in life]. I advocate arts in a beautiful life and to see life as pieces of beautiful art.”

Line Managers: Our pick of skincare using new technology to target an age-old situation

Of the many remedies marketed for ageing skin, those that target fine lines and texture make the most difference over time. Creams for mature skin, according to experts, differ from other formulations in that they focus exclusively on preventing and treating fine lines and texture – the direct results of the natural ageing process – compared to formulae that tackle all visible indicators of advancing years (think dark spots and dullness).

Along with retinol, peptides, growth factors, vitamin C and hyaluronic acid are key components of what specialists call the greatest creams for aged skin. It will take time for products enriched with these ingredients to improve the skin. However, overall, you will see less texture, more radiance and more bounce – as long as you exfoliate and moisturise regularly – making skin look more youthful. Most importantly, it is still crucial to use sunscreen frequently to protect your skin from damaging UV radiation.

Clé de Peau Beauté La Crème

With over 60 carefully chosen ingredients and the Japanese brand’s youth-enhancing Skin-Empowering Illuminator, Clé de Peau Beauté’s La Crème goes above and beyond the average night cream. It works while you sleep to plump, regenerate and reveal luminous, supple skin by sunrise. It was created using more than 100 precise processes to refine its texture and is based on significant research into the behaviour of the complexion as you sleep. It reacts to variations in skin temperature and enhances blood flow throughout the night to improve density.

Dr Sebagh Supreme Neck Lift

Supreme Neck Lift’s amazing recipe contains a wide variety of preventive and skin- boosting moisturisers and active substances that protect, firm and lift the skin. It was created by Jean-Louis Sebagh, the French cosmetic doctor, to help restore firmness and elasticity at the neck and décolleté. With regular application of Supreme Neck Lift in the morning and at night, skin will look and feel tighter overall, and the neck and décolleté will be smoother and cleaner with greater suppleness.

Evidens de Beauté The Day Moisturizer

This luxurious cream imparts instant softness and relaxation to the skin, with its effectiveness the outcome of a balance between internal stimulation and external protection. The Day Moisturizer revitalises skin while minimising both fine and more severe wrinkles. Infused with the French- Japanese brand’s proprietary Qai Complex, Triple Collagen and moisturising and revitalising ingredients, it gives the face more youth, radiance and firmness.

Helena Rubinstein Powercell Night Repair Cream

This night-time boost from Helena Rubinstein’s Powercell line is a rich yet lightweight defence against daily damage. It is formulated with a core of native plant cells, aqua keep and glycerine, a combination that works to restore vitality and the skin’s natural hydrolipidic film. A plump, well-hydrated complexion with fewer symptoms of ageing greets you in the morning.

La Prairie Platinum Rare Cellular Night Elixir

Platinum Rare Cellular Night Elixir is a potent skin-rejuvenating product from the storied Swiss brand that promotes the four processes essential for the skin to fully regenerate – detoxification, nutrition, breathing and immunity boosting. For the first time, a single, remarkable recipe embraces a special combination of rare, active substances to address these four crucial roles.

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

This nourishing retinol night cream from one of the first clinical skincare brands significantly enhances firmness and brightness. It also minimises lines and deep wrinkles, evens skin tone and moisturises. Founder Dr. Howard Murad uses Retinol Tri-Active Technology, which has niacinamide and picolinamide to reinforce the skin barrier and smooth texture, in a product that quickly renews your face while being gentle enough for nightly use.

Natura Bissé C+C Vitamin Cream

This outstanding cream, which is made with a remarkable quantity of vitamin C, gives superficially or thoroughly dry skin back its elasticity, tone and firmness. As an added bonus, Barcelona-based Natura Bissé blends three types of vitamin C antioxidants and collagen with revitalising components that serve to strengthen the effect against free radicals.

Paula’s Choice Clinical Retinol + Bakuchiol Treatment

The choice of US personality Paula Begoun, this product from the Clinical treatment line is ideal for intermediate retinol users. Triple-action retinol, plant-derived bakuchiol and peptides support collagen-depleted skin to target fine lines, deep wrinkles, enlarged pores and loss of firmness. A moderate retinol strength of 0.3% and 2% bakuchiol works to achieve multi-level repair and rejuvenation.

Sensai Cellular Performance Extra Intensive Cream

Endowed with high-end oils that meld with the skin to revitalise its appearance and feel, Sensai’s new Extra Intensive Series is billed to help regain lost suppleness, hydration and translucency after just one day. Then, month after month, it encourages the skin to maintain its natural beauty, becoming silkier and more luminous. A high concentration of Hyaluronate/ Collagen Booster – part of the Japanese brand’s Advanced CPX Vital Extract – provides additional hydration for firmness.

Out Of Money: We stand on the cusp of a cashless society but will it be welcomed by all?

Cash was once king, but talk of a cashless society has been doing the rounds for decades. Recent global developments have brought that state of play even closer, casting a heavier pall on the usefulness of cash – banknotes and coins – in daily commercial activities.

Among its lesser known consequences, the Covid-19 pandemic affected consumers’ payment habits– for some it instilled a fear of handling cash. Research into the impact of Covid on European payment habits by Cranfield University suggests the virus had a dual effect: not only did it push people to use cashless payments in shops, but it also increased online cashless transactions.

Covid cash crash

Andrea Moro, Professor of Entrepreneurial Finance at the Cranfield School of Management, who was part of the research team, believes the global pandemic accelerated pre-existing trends. “Concerns about Covid transmission via touching banknotes or coins that can be infected and the desire to reduce physical contact with others to the bare minimum reinforced and amplified a previous trend towards cashless transactions by increasing the use of cashless payment methods,” he says.

Moro, who previously worked as a senior financial advisor at a consulting firm owned by a group of Italian banks, adds their research suggests the change away from cash payment is longterm or permanent. For many, there came a realisation that concerns about personal information being misappropriated or that “money can be stolen from their bank” were not grounded in fact. “In some way people discovered an alternative way for paying for their shopping and they liked it,” he says.

Intriguingly, it was mainly members of the older generation whose payment habits shifted. Prior to Covid, this age group had demonstrated an affinity for traditional cash-based transactions; they were less prone to credit card usage and quite resistant to innovative payment services such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. As Moro points out, younger people were already using cashless payments before the outbreak.

In essence, reveals Moro, the pandemic consolidated the growing trend of cashless payments, which had begun in the ’80s and ’90s with the increased use of debit and credit cards and exploded with the introduction of mobile payment services. Recent data suggests 21 per cent of global retail purchases this year will take place online.

Cashless drivers

The arrival of technology allowing for the implementation of transactions that are perceived to be secure is a key driver towards a cashless future, notes Moro. “The fact that even if someone steals my phone, they will not be able to use the payment system set up on the phone because of the password/finger protection, has reassured users who nowadays find this approach even more secure than cash,” he says.

Moro favours the move to a cashless society: “It reduces costs, simplifies our life, speeds up transactions and makes them more secure and can also have a positive environmental effect.” He cites the risks of losing cash or receiving fake banknotes, and warns that cash has historically been used for illegal transactions where buyer and seller do not want the exchange to be trackable.

He links the desire to cling onto cash to those who struggle with technology or work jobs that are traditionally paid in cash.

China e-payment push

In many places including China, which has been quicker than most to embrace electronic payment, digital platforms will undoubtedly continue to erode the percentage of cash-based transactions. According to Professor Jack Poon of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), a fintech expert who advises artificial intelligence and blockchain startups, the prerequisites of a cashless society are smartphone penetration, availability of wireless broadband networks (4G, 5G), and the inadequacy of existing payment infrastructure within the country.

The demographic of the population also plays an important role. Younger generations, higher income groups and well-educated segments are more receptive to technology adoption than older generations, lower income groups and less educated segments, respectively.

Developing economies like India are also showing a huge uptake in mobile cash payments to the benefit of many marginalised communities with platforms like the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) allowing for fast account-to-account transfer using fintech apps such as PhonePe or Google Pay. China’s Alipay and WeChat Pay models, where the consumer scans a QR Code and payment is debited directly from the balance or through an affiliated bank account or another form of payment (like a credit card), have proved extremely popular.

Digital wallets are pervasive in China. “From a business standpoint, digital wallet providers are incentivised to acquire more customers because a larger customer base enables other forms of business models for additional revenue streams,” says Poon. Though by law, cash must be accepted as a legal tender in mainland China, he points out e-payment lowers the cost and risk of cash management, increases transaction efficiency and scales a business across multiple geographies (within a country) faster.

Kent Matthews, professor of banking and finance at Cardiff University, says so much of officialdom in China leans on technology that is only natural that this would eventually extend down to transactions at street markets as well as shops.

Hong Kong digital delay

Here in Hong Kong, the recent adoption of different forms of cashless payments is widely perceived to have been driven by their widespread implementation across the border. Certainly, the consumption voucher scheme has accelerated the use of digital payments by WeChat Pay, Alipay and Octopus.

But according to one local banking professional, the territory still lags far behind other places in terms of becoming a cashless society. “There are a lot of limitations and regulations regarding the implementation and promotion of developing cashless transactions in Hong Kong,” he says.

From his perspective as a banker, he believes the financial regulators in Hong Kong are conservative in implementing cashless methods because there is a lot of risk inherited, especially fraud and data leakage. “For most people in Hong Kong, cashless transactions are just for minor transactions like transportation, buying daily supplies and paying bills,” he says.

There is an apparent unwillingness to change consumption behaviour, particularly among the older generation, fuelled in part by numerous recent fraud cases. Ada Chung Lai-ling, Hong Kong’s Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, recently voiced fears about online shopping platforms, citing evidence of data security incidents and phishing attacks.

Despite the many challenges in Hong Kong, a fintech adoption survey conducted by PolyU revealed that 91% of the 2,000-plus respondents had adopted e-payment in Hong Kong.

Disruptive fintech

The credit card model of payment in the West is strongly built, according to Poon, and is unlikely to be dismantled. He does suggest there are multiple fintech companies trying to break into this ecosystem and fill the gaps “like payments among friends when you share a lunch meal, or the buy- now-pay-later (BNPL) disruption to the traditional card model”.

He believes crypto is only an alternative to cash or e-payment in countries where the sovereign currency is experiencing significant devaluation.

Cool Chilean: Saluting the bright, mineral South American west coast whites born in mineral-rich soils

Perhaps a little surprisingly given its far-flung New World location, Chile has a long history of making wine. Production dates from the 16th century with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, while further developments in the mid-19th century saw the introduction of French wine varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Carménère and Cabernet Franc.

Fantastic fourth

The 1980s saw a growth in the industry with improved fermentation techniques and the South American country is now firmly established on the winemaking map, with recent figures placing it as the world’s fourth-largest exporter of wine. Falling between the latitudes of 32°S and 38°S, the vineyards of Chile have been defined into several distinct regions since December 1994. Coquimbo in the north and the Central Valley areas of Maipo, Cachapoal and Colchagua are considered among the best.

Limarí Valley, a sub-region of Coquimbo, is one of Bernice Liu’s favourite wine regions. The Hong Kong actress, winemaker and Wine Maven platform entrepreneur (winemaven.io) clearly adores the quality of the viticulture emanating from the area. “This region is a pretty cool place for wines,” she enthuses. “It is where my Chardonnay comes from!” She makes Lunoria and Vartiere Chardonnay in collaboration with Pagnel winery.

Chardonnay hooray

The main wines produced in the region are Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah. Liu believes the location has some distinct advantages for certain wines, stating: “Limarí Valley is one of the most prized areas for Chardonnay in Chile, with great soil and climate conditions. With it having a sea-to-soil likeness, fresher whites are able to be produced here.”

She cites Concha y Toro winery as an example of a famous producer of lovely white wines in the valley.

Roots and routes

Chile also has historical advantages that have cemented its winemaking tradition. As Liu points out, it was not affected by the phylloxera louse. Feeding on the roots and leaves of grapevines, these insects destroyed much of the wines worldwide in the late 19th century.

Mineral shine

There is good minerality in a soil that tends to be made of clay, silt and chalk in Limarí Valley. Due to a relatively moderate amount of rainfall, the vines on these mineral-rich soils are fed with drip irrigation, and this combination creates fresh wines with a notable mineral edge, a quality noted by Liu when describing her favourite wine from the region.

“Naturally, my Lunoria and Vartiere Chardonnays are my favourites,” she says. “I love medium-bodied whites, with good natural acidity. With moderate amounts of clay soil, minerality shines through, and makes them a great food pairing wine, especially with Asian cuisine and the varied flavours from dish to dish.

Aromatic show

“The aromas and taste of these wines have hints of floral, vanilla, ripe stoned fruit and a bit of oak to ease the acidity. Minerality from the clay soil is also present,” she adds, again referring to the mineral edge in the wines of this region.

“The best part is that though they are served cold, the glass can be left to stand and the aromatics really start to show.”

Bavaria Euphoria: Visitors come here for the beer – but also a countryside of fairy-tale castles and folksy festivals

The southern German state of Bavaria is so full of charm and beguiling beauty that it has been known to stimulate feelings of envy in the enchanted visitor. There are castles galore and the amazing Alps to behold, as well as the cultural melting pot of Munich and a host of medieval towns and villages that flaunt their folksy credentials in this prosperous region of Europe’s richest country. Time and tradition seem to have stood still at the plethora of festivals running from spring to autumn, where the men wear leather breeches and the women parade around in intricately embroidered dresses and aprons.

Bavaria, the largest of the states within the Federal Republic of Germany, has always had a distinct identity. The capital, Munich, is famous for its Oktoberfest, which runs from late September to early October and lures hordes of hedonists eager to indulge in the pleasures contained within raucous beer tents run by traditional breweries. Held in Theresienwiese in the centre of the city and dating back more than 200 years, this is the largest beer festival in the world and attracts millions of visitors – many joining in the hearty German spirit by donning the aforementioned lederhosen and dirndl.

Brewing pleasure

Indeed, beer gardens and beer halls are commonplace throughout Bavaria and the many local breweries are said to produce some of the world’s finest beers. These brews must adhere to strict quality and purity standards and be composed of water, hops and barley – the so-called Reinheitsgebot formula.

Munich itself houses some outstanding historic beer halls and taverns, and a visit to Hofbräuhaus is a must. Considered the most famous beer hall in the world, it has a darker side as the stage for the first Nazi Party event in 1920, but today it remains the definitive Munich pub for swaying tourists soaking up the atmosphere; the resident oompah band keeps the joyous and convivial mood flowing along with the beers.

The expansive beer gardens are marginally less crowded than the beer halls. Chinesischer Turm located within the English Garden has about 7,000 seats and an international clientele gathering for drinks in sight of the Chinese pagoda that counts as one of the city’s most notable landmarks. In Munich’s largest beer garden, Hirschgarten, Augustiner Edelstoff – first brewed by Augustinian monks in 1328 and regarded as the champagne of Bavarian beers – is served on tap from a huge wooden barrel. Other notable Bavarian beers are Lowenbräu, which dates to the 14th century and is made in Munich’s largest brewery, and Hacker- Pschorr, first mentioned in 1417.

Pigging out

As for culinary delights, the most famous of the Bavarian dishes is undoubtedly the wurst, or the sausage. They are popular across the state, but locals differ on the best time of day to enjoy them. Munich prefers its veal sausages (or weisswurst) for breakfast; Nuremberg to the north likes miniature bratwurst at lunch; and Regensburg, in between the two on the Danube river, loves the simple sausage for dinner.

Much Bavarian cuisine has its roots in Bohemian Austrian cuisine, such as knödel (dumplings), mehlspeisen (pastries) and schnitzel. Roast pork (the succulent schweinebraten) is also a popular dish and often the meat is continuously basted with dark beer while it is roasting, so the rind develops into crispy crackling. A beer-garden favourite is “Considered the most famous beer hall in the world, Hofbräuhaus … remains the definitive Munich pub for swaying tourists soaking up the atmosphere” obatzda, a spreadable cheese made from Camembert, butter, quark, paprika and onion. Of course, Bavaria is also noted for its gorgeous desserts, most notably the delightful apfelstrudel (apple strudel); others include elderflower pancakes and steamed dumplings.

Munich boasts a plethora of cafes, bars and bistros and some outstanding restaurants. The Landersdorfer & Innerhofer has a delightful Austrian-inspired menu, while Matsuhisa Munich, sitting inside the Mandarin Oriental, offers fine dining in a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisines. Aside from the Mandarin Oriental, the city has a slew of fantastic luxury hotels.

City of culture

Central Munich also embraces an outstanding museum quarter hosting Bavaria’s top art museums and other world-class attractions. There are superb science exhibits and some outstanding private collections – plenty to keep the enthusiast occupied. Like some historic areas of the city, many of the museums that were bombed during the Second World War have been painstakingly reconstructed or redeveloped. Further afield, in the north of the city lies the bowl-shaped BMW Museum, a delight for car and motorbike fans. The city is also a shopper’s haven; Residenzstraße is where the leading luxury brands are situated.

There is also magnificent theatre, concert and opera in Munich. The famed Munich Philharmonic will delight classical music lovers, while the Bavarian State Opera draws half a million visitors a year for more than 400 performances annually. An intimate and recently reconstructed historic theatre – the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz – hosts operas, operettas and musicals.

Land of tradition

Munich is ideally situated to explore wider Bavaria. The land is full of traditions which are played out throughout the year and the calendar is filled with picturesque rituals and spectacles. For instance, on the first Sunday in November there are processions on horseback or in painted carts throughout Bavaria in honour of St Leonard, the patron saint of horses.

The German National Tourist Board recently revealed the Top 100 tourist destinations and many Bavarian destinations figure prominently, including Rothenburg, which achieved fourth spot and is renowned for its fantastic medieval architecture. Situated in northern Bavaria, this magical town is worth visiting.

King of the castles

Another must-see is Neuschwanstein Castle (sixth on the above list) in the foothills of the Alps, and a day trip from Munich to Füssen – which is about six kilometres from the castle – is recommended. Visits are only possible as part of a guided tour. Commissioned by oddball king Ludwig II as a homage to composer Richard Wagner, this fairy-tale castle is one of the most popular in Europe and has a mystical, romantic air nestled in a forest of fir and pine; it is breathtaking in the early morning sunrise. Ludwig himself kept an eye on construction from nearby Hohenschwangau, a neo-Gothic building where he grew up. Not far away, the Museum of Bavarian Kings on the shores of the scenic Alpsee Lake tells the story of the Wittelsbach family dynasty and their 700-year tenancy of the long-abolished Bavarian throne.

There are numerous ancient monasteries and world-famous churches within easy reach of Munich, including Wieskirche, a Unesco World Heritage Site, which is noted for its magnificent rococo interior.

See sights

The many lakes in southern Bavaria, formed by huge glaciers that melted countless centuries ago, attract water sports enthusiasts, swimmers and other outdoor activities. Chiemsee, also known as the Bavarian Sea, offers fantastic yachting opportunities.

Well worth a visit is Starnberger See, a magnificent lake surrounded by several palaces, including Berg, the summer house of the Wittelbachs. It was near here that Ludwig II died in mysterious circumstances – a cross a few metres from the shore marks the tragic scene.

Alpine heaven

Bavaria may only contain a small slither of the Alps, but the landscapes are dramatic, and Germany’s highest mountain, Zugspitze, can be easily reached by mountain railway and cable car.

The observation platform on the top of the mountain has wonderful vistas that reach out as far as the Italian Dolomites on a clear day. The terrain is perfect for skiing in the winter, and there are countless cable cars offering access to superb ski runs.

Heritage Pilgrimage: Restored and ordinarily repurposed, Hong Kong’s remaining old buildings prompt trips down memory lane

In Hong Kong, it is not uncommon to demolish buildings that are only 30 years old (or younger) in order to make room for dazzling new office towers or public housing blocks. However, a new trend has evolved – turning grand buildings constructed during the 150 years of British colonial rule into hip places to dine, stay, and oddly enough, take in some culture. Escaping the fate of countless others that were destroyed, some historic buildings have survived to the present day and are prospering with a new life and purpose. While Hong Kong is famous for its contemporary skyscrapers, the city has more to offer.

Privately owned old buildings, on the other hand, might be difficult to preserve since owners may be able to request their demolition or redevelopment regardless of their historical legacy. Unless the property is declared a monument, the owner has the right to demolish it even if it is a graded building or demonstrates exceptional value. The government typically stays out of legal disputes between conservationists who want to preserve Hong Kong’s heritage and owners who can make money by replacing old with new. As a result, protecting these structures requires the help of the public who must stand up to stop heritage buildings from coming down.

Successful preservation projects are those that match the neighbourhood, do not cause an undue disturbance, and help society learn more about the past. The onus is on the government, the courts and the community to act more responsibly, recognise historic structures as a form of publicly owned treasure and take steps to prevent them from being hijacked by developers. We stop by seven restored buildings whose legacies can still be appreciated today.

1881 Heritage

The former Marine Police Headquarters that stood atop a hillock in the centre of Tsim Sha Tsui from 1884 to 1996 has been revitalised and reincorporated into the modern urban fabric of the neighbourhood. After considerable restoration and conservation work, a cultural and shopping landmark called 1881 Heritage, was created. Opened in 2019, it is home to upscale stores and restaurants, trendy bars, a heritage hotel and an exhibition hall where visitors can learn about the site’s history.

Blue House

A historic group of structures distinguished by their vivid colour has withstood the test of time. One cannot miss the Blue House, a four-house, four-storey balcony-type tenement block with a blend of Chinese and Western architectural elements situated in Stone Nullah Lane in the city’s Wan Chai neighbourhood. Built in 1922, this grade-one historic structure is an eye-catching example of a tong lau, or tenement building, commonly constructed in southern China and Southeast Asia in the late 19th century. The stunning blue exterior inspiring its moniker, the Blue House has come to represent a relatively uncommon Hong Kong success story in urban conservation. It received a Unesco Asia-Pacific Award of Excellence for Cultural Heritage Conservation in 2017.

Court of Final Appeal

One of Central’s most recognisable structures provides a neo-classical visual contrast amid a sea of high-rises. Constructed in 1912, the Court of Final Appeal Building – also known as the Old Supreme Court Building – has been designated as a monument. The two-storey granite structure supported by ionic columns is also noted for the 2.7-metre-tall, blindfolded statue of Themis, the Greek goddess of justice and law, that surmounts its central pediment; below is a semi-circular window topped by a carving of the British Royal Coat of Arms. One may take a tour of the premises and watch court proceedings.

Lui Seng Chun

This magnificent corner tong lau shophouse, designed by architect W.H. Bourne, once housed a bone-setting business and the Lui family’s private dwelling. It is now a Declared Monument. Its architecture is characteristic of the period’s hybrid Chinese-Western design, with large verandahs that made it possible to live indoors and outside in the absence of air conditioning. Even though all of its neighboring structures were renovated, the home managed to endure. In 2012, it underwent restoration and was turned into a Chinese medical center. Don’t overlook the exhibition and herbal tea shop on the ground floor.

Tai Kwun

As one of the most expensive real-estate markets in the world, Hong Kong doesn’t waste any space – which is why finding a location like the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts is so refreshing. This historic heritage regeneration project, which officially opened in 2018 along Hollywood Road in Central, boasts a sizable courtyard encircled by 16 buildings from the colonial era and lush trees set over six acres. The following year it won the Unesco Award of Excellence for Cultural Heritage Conservation. A unicorn in Hong Kong, it is a free, open and laid-back area that more than lives up to its promise of offering engaging artistic, cultural, culinary and shopping experiences. Arriving at Tai Kwun on any given day, one will find a calendar of events that includes changing exhibitions, art installations, performances, films, concerts and storytelling spaces as well as regular tours.

The Clock Tower

Standing 44 metres high, the Clock Tower was built as part of the Kowloon-Canton Railway terminus in Tsim Sha Tsui in 1915. The once-bustling station is now gone, but this red brick and granite tower is still standing as a graceful relic of the Steam Age. It was declared a monument in 1990, and certainly, the millions of Chinese immigrants who passed through the terminus on their way to start a new life in Hong Kong or another part of the globe would have found it a memorable landmark. The bronze bell that had chimed from 1921 to 1976 was restored to its rightful place in the tower in 2021 in honour of its centennial.

Western Market

The oldest market building still standing in Hong Kong, Western Market occupies a whole block between Connaught Road Central and Des Voeux Road Central in Sheung Wan. The red-brick Edwardian-style structure has a granite entrance and prominent corner towers; it was completed in 1906 and sold produce until 1988. Today, it is home to cafés, restaurants, curio shops and fabric merchants who were relocated from stalls in adjacent lanes after it was refurbished and reopened in 1991. Visitors to this historic site may want to travel here by another still thriving vestige of Hong Kong heritage – Western Market is one of Hong Kong Tramways’ seven terminuses.

Rice Rhapsody: In a city where rice is life, Sushi Haru’s Chef Hirokuni Shiga orchestrates a masterful omakase

As Asians, we tend to gravitate to a bowl of piping hot rice to satisfy our hunger at any time of the day. But there’s the undeniable draw of something more, for which sushi, Japan’s heart of culinary offerings, sparks an entirely new love affair. The presence of countless establishments paying homage to the intricacies and revelations of Japan’s heart of culinary offerings underscores the Hong Kong craving for raw fish atop vinegared rice.

Taking over the hinoki wood dining counter of just exactly eight seats, Chef Hirokuni Shiga is flexing his faultless sense of taste at the intimate setting of Sushi Haru, at the top of Wyndham Street in Central. This humble master of Edomae sushi began his career at his family’s kappo-style restaurant and it wasn’t until he was in his early 20s that, at the invitation of his father’s friend, he had his first encounter with omakase sushi. He began an apprenticeship, and from then on, his imaginative culinary creations have captivated diners.

”What I think makes us stand out is that I am able to incorporate everything I have learned in kappo and kaiseki dining into the dishes I serve,” says Shiga, who doesn’t shy from sharing his own story from behind the counter. “For example, depending on the piece of fish I am serving, I use different types of rice and details like this help to shape the guest’s experience.”

Both Hong Kong and Japan are known for wearing their history as a badge of honour. Although it may seem that tradition and modernity are forever in flux, Sushi Haru manages to pay homage to the past while expressing a contemporary vibe. The Zen aesthetic is further enhanced by a display of minimal-themed, charcoal- based framed drawings and a grey and brown colour combination – the only two hues evident throughout the restaurant.

But of course, there’s the sushi, the main star of the show, as well as the chef showing off his knife skills while finely slicing a selection of seafood. His kitchen balances flavour and subtlety without coming off at all gimmicky and then splashes of vivid, varied colour are served dish after dish. Think akami (lean red tuna), shiromi (white fish), nimono (simmered fish), kai (shellfish), ika (squid), tako (octopus), ebi (shrimp), kani (crab) and gyoran (fish roe).

But of all these sensational toppings, it’s the hikarimono (silver-skinned fish) that Shiga names as his personal favourite. “I am most proud of our kohada [gizzard shad] and kasugo [young sea bream] because, although they are the most labour- intensive, the hard work can be tasted in the result,” he says. “Oftentimes, in the world of sushi, a true test of a sushi chef is in how they prepare kohada.”

There’s also good news for newcomers to East Asia who have yet to master chopsticks. “You can eat with your fingers or you can use chopsticks,” he adds, smiling. The dexterous chef also beguiles his audience with his step-by-step method of assembling a perfectly shaped sushi, which involves gently pressing the fish onto the rice.

In between exquisite bites, sake and beer add a smooth, subtle sweetness to the night’s bouquet of flavours. Shiga, who is often caught raising a glass or two with his audience, also brings a citrusy kick via a fruit-infused sake to the table.

“Sushi, if you are to just look at it, is not too complicated, but the amount of care that is put into it should always be reflected on the faces of your guests,” he emphasises. “That is when you know you have succeeded.”

The looks of joyous satisfaction around the table as our omakase feast concludes is a testament to both Sushi Haru and Chef Hirokuni Shiga’s triumph. Rice will always be appealing anywhere on this side of the world, but Sushi Haru truly goes far beyond satisfying a craving.

Sushi Haru, Mezzanine, 33 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong. Tel: 2111 1450

Photos: Jack Fontanilla / Sushi Haru Video: Jack Fontanilla

Mono Modernity: Less is more for the quiet luxury trend

Look 1

On Her
Dress, tie, mini handbag and boots by Valentino

On Him
Trench coat, top, tie, cross- body bag, shorts and boots by Valentino

Look 2

On Her
Necklace and rings by Chopard
Dress and handbag by Miu Miu

On Him
Sweater, belt and pants by Zegna
Handbag by Ferragamo Scandals by Christian Louboutin

Look 3

On Her
Necklaces and ring by Messika
Turtle neck sweater, jacket and pants by Isabel Marant Handbag by Maison Margiela
Slingback pumps by Roger Vivier

On Him
Rings, bracelet, jacket, top and pants by Gucci

Look 4

On Her
Earrings and rings by FRED Jacket, handbag and pencil skirt by Prada

On Him
Bracelets by FRED Cardigan, jacket, handbag and pants by Prada

Look 5

On Her
Earrings, necklace and rings by Tiffany & Co. Dress by Loewe Handbag by Dior
High knee boots by Christian Louboutin

On Him
Bracelet by Tiffany & Co. Jacket and pants by Loewe

Look 6

On Her
Scarf, trench coat, pants and boots by Hermès

On Him
Top, vest, pants and boots by Hermès

Look 7

Earrings and ring by Chopard Torin strapless feather-trimmed sequined crepe
mini dress by RETROFÊTE, courtesy of Net-A-Porter Heels by Christina Louboutin

Look 8

On Her
Earrings, necklace and ring by Messika Dress by Chloé

On Him
Jacket and pants by Dolce & Gabbana

Look 9

Ring and bracelet by Chopard Jacket and pants by Diesel

Photographer: Jack Law Art Direction & Styling: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Female Model: Iris F (Quest Artists & Models) Male Model: Kostya D (Quest Artists & Models) Hair and Make-up: Owen Ko & Joenny Lau

Also read: Park Keepers: Outré outwear you will never ever want to part with

What’s on? Things to do this October in Hong Kong

Make October more fun and entertaining with all the cultural events ranging from Sports events to trade shows and concerts that are taking place this month. Gafencu has picked the ones you should not absolutely miss.

National Day Fireworks

The traditional fireworks display in Victoria Harbour makes a welcome return to celebrate National Day. Taking place for the first time since 2019 following the lifting of Covid restrictions, the spectacle is sure to draw huge crowds keen to see colourful fireworks displays set against the amazing backdrop of the Hong Kong skyline. Whatever the weather, this world-class event is always an unforgettable experience. The event celebrates the 74th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, and the extravaganza is a goodwill gesture intended to bring happiness and prosperity to the city.

When: October 1-2

Where: Victoria Harbour

How much: Free

Ocean Park Halloween Fest

If ghoulish goings-on during Halloween appeal, hasten to Ocean Park this month as it celebrates the horror show in style. There will be monsters galore, ghostly apparitions and lots of shows to keep you scared stiff but wanting more. The large site contains haunted houses and amazing interactive experiences to make sure your visit to the park is a memorable one. Favourite themes should return such as Ghost Tours, Survivor of the Undead and Treasure Hunts. Holders of Halloween Terror Trio Tickets can present the ticket and experience the thrill of three designated Halloween attractions.

When: October 1-31st

Where: Ocean Park

How much: From $388

Freespace Jazz Fest

A fantastic cocktail of different jazz styles will be on offer at Jazz Fest 2023, which will feature more than 500 musicians from across the world. The festival includes Jazzscapes, a series of one-hour concerts held over three consecutive evenings with musical genres ranging from punk and electronica to fusion and world music. Arts, DJ booths, interactive activities and plenty of food and drink will be available. Jim Tomlinson and Stacey Kent headline on the final night.

When: October 3-8 / 26th October

Where: West Kowloon Cultural District

How much: From $160

Fine Art and Ink Asia

Running alongside each other, Fine Art Asia and Ink Asia are returning to Hong Kong in their traditional guise with the much-missed overseas exhibitors also present, promising to make the four- day event one to remember. Various exhibitors and collection categories will highlight the dynamics between East- West artistic interaction and showcase new trends in collecting.

When: October 5-8

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai

How much: $15

One Ok Rock Luxury Disease Asia Tour In

Japanese band One Ok Rock finally gets to perform in Hong Kong after the cancellation of their scheduled concert in 2020 left many fans in a state of despair. The group first hit international music headlines with their superb 35xxxv album, released in 2015 to much acclaim. Since that breakthrough moment, they have toured the world. The superstars’ current tour is named for their 10th studio album, Luxury Disease.

When: October 7

Where: Central Harbourfront

How much: From $599

Hong Kong Tennis Open

Sports enthusiasts will be delighted to see the return of world-class tennis to our shores in the form of the Prudential Hong Kong Tennis Open 2023. Previous tournaments attracted top- ranking players such as Venus Williams and Caroline Wozniacki. Huge crowds are expected to watch the stars of the women’s game expertly serve, volley and lob to get their hands on some of the US$250,000 (HK$1.96 million) prize money.

When: October 7-15

Where: Victoria Park Tennis Stadium

How much: From $160

Mega Show Part 1

This annual trade show is notable for the wide range of household goods, gifts and toys on display. Exhibitors from around the world will flock to show off their wares and countless buyers will congregate for an amazing sourcing extravaganza. On offer will be houseware and kitchenware, lifestyle products, toys and baby products, plus arts and crafts and Christmas-themed items. There are special sections gathering the latest sporting products, and design and tech gadgets.

When: October 20-23

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai

How much: Price varies

Hong Kong Cyclothon

The 2023 Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon will whizz through the streets late in the month, with places for 5,200 biking enthusiasts. There are multiple races being staged, ranging from 30 km to 50 km, the more leisurely Family Fun Ride and for top-tier professional cycling teams, the UCI Class 1.1 Road Race.

When: October 22

Where: Start / finish in Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui

How much: Free for spectators

Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival

Foodies and wine connoisseurs will rejoice in anticipation of the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which promises to cater for all tastes and sweet spots. This is a never-to-be-forgotten outdoor dining experience set against the stunning skyline and ambience of Victoria Harbour. Coming to the party are wineries and brewers from around the world who will bring some of the best beverages available and masters of culinary delights serving sensational dishes.

When: October 26-29

Where: Central Harbourfront

How much: Price varies

Kings And Aces: Mark Cho, the visionary co-founder of The Armoury, tailors an entire floor of luxury shopping in Pedder Building

Two consecutive weekends of typhoon and heavy rain have halted The Armoury team who were working non-stop to finish their new home on the fifth floor of Pedder Building in Central. It’s close to 3 pm and Mark Cho moves along his shelves and racks of canvassed Savile Row-style suits, bench-made shoes, crisp shirts, neckties and much more in a kind of reverential awe. The 40-year-old, internationally known as the co- founder of The Armoury, co-owner of Drake’s haberdasher and director of the Pedder Arcade, meticulously checks the smallest of details, including the spacing between the textile canopy of the shop ceiling.

“Give me 10 minutes,” he says. “I just need to finalise a few things with our interior designer, then we can start [the cover shoot].”

It feels like a tacit invitation to explore the whole floor of what will become the Pedder Arcade. Cho is the director of the much- anticipated project – a pitch he delivered to the Pedder Building landlords during Covid – to create a shopping arcade that will resonate with the ones in the UK, complete with a café and dapper essentials boutiques that will become a one-stop destination for lounging and shopping.

Scrolling along the floor-to-ceiling shelves, Cho pulls out, using one hand, his selection of six different looks for our cover shoot, and in the other hand holds his go-to energy booster, a Venti Iced Americano.

At first, Cho may look like your typical businessman – oftentimes he puts on a serious face and dresses like a geezer. He has a cool composure that could read as seriousness, or perhaps he’s just drained from the weight of arcade preparation he and his team have shouldered over the past two years. Yet, he pushes through, like he has always in his life, and makes things work despite the situation.

“I was originally a womenswear designer, but my parents wanted something more of a conventional career path for me. It’s an Asian thing, I know,” he says. “And so, for a few years, I worked in the banking industry. But then life has its way of bringing you to where you are supposed to be. A place where your passion really thrives. And 13 years later, I am still doing what I am really passionate about – tailoring and dressing people.”

King of uncool

Born in the UK and simultaneously calling Hong Kong, the United States and the UK his homes, the Brown University alumnus confesses he was a bit of an outsider during his formative years. On his Instagram account, one can read and question the bio line that says ‘Making uncool uncool again’. Giving a very vague explanation, he says: “Perhaps that’s what I do best?” he gives a side smirk and at the same time a little shrug. “Growing up, I was like a mongrel because I moved around a lot.”

Moving to a more serious note, he passionately articulates the inspiration he derived from the Japanese fashion entrepreneurs and creative directors of the ’70s to the ’90s, such as Hirofumi Kurino, Yasuto Kamoshita, Osamu Shigematsu, Kenji Kaga, Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto and Rei Kawakubo. He sees them as a sort of God-tier in the world of style – strong personalities with no existing playbook to follow who basically figured things out on their own and set the tone for the fashion of their entire country, as well as having a knock-on effect throughout Asia.

Tailored approach

For Cho personally, though, it was the other way around – from Asia to New York. In 2013, having successfully become classic menswear retailers in Hong Kong, with their initial 2010 shop in Pedder Building joined by another in The Landmark, he and co-founder Alan See established The Armoury New York. They honed their abilities to design collections in-house and now have a unique selection of products that are exclusively under their brand.

“Our vision is to teach people to appreciate classic style and tailoring, to offer an enjoyable and personal customer experience, and to encourage people to buy less, buy better and appreciate their clothing,” he recaps.

Taking the fifth

The Pedder Arcade passion runs deep. Almost part of Cho’s branding at this moment, it subtly informs the classic yet stylish aesthetic he has steered at The Armoury. And just as the Pedder Arcade will orbit around different players housed along the length of the fifth floor, Cho is the centrifugal force of his own creative team. His sense of dialogue and open-mindedness are evidently what makes him and his brand tick. Moreover, his ultra- responsiveness makes him the greatest ally on both strategic and creative fronts.

“Expressing yourself through clothing is very important,” he says. “People need to be who they want to be. Expressing yourself through fashion is difficult because it changes faster than you yourself might change. You can be in fashion for a moment and then out of fashion the next. Or, you can be a slave to fashion and chase it forever.”

The entire floor, best described as somewhat similar to the hallmarks of the tailor shop in the film Kingsman, is poised to be elegant, modern and romantic, with prices in the upmarket apparel boutiques ranging from HK$10,000 to $30,000. But as a thinking millennial, Cho is pragmatic, too.

He says: “I don’t see fashion as exclusive to the rich and famous. If anything, there are so many wonderful deals to be had if you’re willing to use second-hand or old stock. If life is going to be a competition, then you can always compete with your imagination instead of your wallet.”

Time is prime

A man of many interests, Cho is in a permanent state of doing. Just recently, he was on a Discord chat about watches hosted by an international publication, in addition to the challenges of making a curated shopping arcade come to life before mid-October. He works at weekends too, which is why, he thinks, he could use a little help via a superpower to freeze time.

“Ah! It must be nice to stop time even for a while. I never had enough time,” he says, while wiping his glasses, finger-brushing his hair and straightening his suit and tie ready to face our camera.

With the help of his takeaway iced coffee, Cho negotiates our six-spread photoshoot without a single flinch, even suggesting which lens would work best for each angle.

In between effortlessly poses, including lounging on a newly delivered leather couch, he has a word of encouragement for our production team: “When you have a vision, you just have to stick to it and make it work.” As the camera clicks its last shot, he immediately shakes everyone’s hand before attending to another appointment.

And unlike Kingsman’s heroes, Cho, The Armoury and the Pedder Arcade’s services are now far from being a secret. They all ace the dapper gentleman lifestyle with the right attitude, commitment and excellence.

Interview & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Venue: The Pedder Arcade