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11 of the best neon signs still hanging in Hong Kong, and how to get to them before the glow is gone for good
- Hong Kong used to be synonymous with neon signs, but the majority have been removed in recent decades, the victims of regulation and the rise of LEDs
- There remain around 150 on buildings around the city that bathe their neighbourhoods in vivid hues. We’ve picked 11 of the best, and tell you how to reach them
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During their heyday in Hong Kong in the second half of the 20th century, thousands of neon signs bathed the city in vividly coloured light every evening. In recent decades, however, they have been gradually disappearing.
One reason for this is government regulation. Many of the signs were erected without permission from authorities and were deemed public safety hazards. In the early 2010s, new rules were introduced and many displays were slated for removal.
The increased availability of LED lights has also contributed to the decline of neon signs; the former are generally cheaper and more energy efficient, and so make more sense for many businesses.
Despite this, some sources estimate there still to be around 150 neon signs on buildings across the city. Here are 11 of the most impressive of them to see before the glow is gone for good.
Kowloon
Wo Hing Victory Mahjong, 385 Nathan Road, Yau Ma Tei.
Connor Mycroft joined the city desk as a reporter in July 2023 after completing the Post’s year-long Graduate Trainee Programme. Originally from Canada, he spent three years teaching English in mainland China before relocating to Hong Kong in 2021. He holds a Masters Degree in Journalism from the University of Hong Kong.
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