The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s charities trust has converted its 16 buildings – the oldest built 150 years ago – into a centre for heritage and contemporary art called Tai Kwun. It will open to the public on May 29.
The former Hong Kong prison and police station where Vietnamese independence leader Ho Chi Minh (jailed there in the 1930s) once exercised, has been restored and will open as an arts centre this month after a US$485 million, eight-year restoration.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s charities trust has converted its 16 buildings – the oldest built 150 years ago – into a centre for heritage and contemporary art called Tai Kwun. It will open to the public on May 29.
The 13,600 square metre compound in Central district is in one of the areas of Hong Kong Island first settled by British colonists.
Some cells in the former Victoria Prison have been left intact to show visitors just how cramped conditions were for prisoners.
For its soft opening on May 29 members of the public need to apply for a timed entry ticket through website Taikwun.hk.
The Jockey Club urges visitors to use public transport to reach Tai Kwun, as nearby residents and businesses fear the surrounding streets will be overwhelmed by traffic if too many visitors drive there.