PMQ: A Deep Dive into the Charm of Hong Kong’s Most Creative Spot!

Located in the Central district of Hong Kong, PMQ is a shopping spot filled with high-sense items and a must-visit destination. Formerly used as police quarters, the building is now home to ateliers and shops of young creators, functioning as a trendsetting hub in Hong Kong. PMQ is the perfect place to visit when you’re looking for something a bit special. This time, we’ll introduce the history of PMQ and recommend some of its top spots.

1. What is PMQ?

The location of PMQ was once home to the "Central School," a public institution providing Western education to Chinese children. The school is notably remembered as the alma mater of Sun Yat-sen, a prominent Chinese revolutionary. Unfortunately, Central School was completely destroyed during World War II. In 1951, a new building was constructed on the site and served as a residence for married police officers.

The name "PMQ" is derived from "Police Married Quarters," reflecting its original purpose. Until around 2007, it mainly housed staff from the Central Police Station. However, it was later abandoned and, in 2014, transformed into a vibrant hub for artists and designers, becoming a new epicenter of creativity and trends in Hong Kong.

The 170 former apartments were repurposed into shops, restaurants, cafes, and studios, while the communal toilets from the police quarters era still function as restrooms. PMQ has become one of Hong Kong’s hottest tourist spots, with its layout preserved from its police quarters days, offering visitors a glimpse into its past. Exploring it with this history in mind can enhance your experience.

2. Shops in the Hollywood Block

The Hollywood Block, facing Hollywood Road (荷李活道), features galleries and shops by contemporary artists. Each item sold is unique, often one-of-a-kind. Among them, "Hong Kong Oapes" offers charming accessories inspired by Hong Kong motifs and has gained a lot of popularity.

Their collection includes pendants shaped like Hong Kong’s iconic streets, goldfish necklaces symbolizing prosperity, zodiac-themed charms resembling lanterns, and earrings inspired by traditional Hong Kong desserts. These designs are filled with originality. These accessories also make great souvenirs.

3. Popular Café in the Hollywood Block

Loupe Teahouse is a delightful café that offers delicious teas and light meals. With a diverse selection of light dishes and a simple yet chic interior, it has become especially popular among young women. If you find yourself missing food, you’ll be pleased to discover options like somen noodles, tempura, and matcha on the menu.

The highlight at Loupe Teahouse is their charming desserts inspired by gemstones. Their cakes, with names like "White Pearl," "Blue Gem," "Ruby Temptation," and "Gold Bar," are as visually stunning as they are tasty. Why not take a moment to relax with a slice of cake and a cup of excellent coffee?

4. Shops in the Staunton Block

The Staunton Block, located along Staunton Road, features a variety of artistic shops. Some even offer workshops, such as indigo dyeing, where you can create unique souvenirs to remember your Hong Kong trip. The block is conveniently connected to the Hollywood Block via the rooftop garden on the 4th floor.

The popular Hong Kong lifestyle store G.O.D (Goods of Desire) is a perfect place to look for souvenirs. They offer a wide range of items, including kitchenware, stationery, furniture, interior goods, clothing, and food. Every item is uniquely designed and irresistibly cute. If you want Hong Kong-themed souvenirs, this store is highly recommended.

Other noteworthy stores include Chocolate Rain, which sells goods featuring the popular Hong Kong character Fatina; Bamboa Home, offering Asian-inspired home goods; and Gong Fu Tea House, a shop popular in Japan for its tea utensils and tea leaves.

5. Recommended Restaurants in Staunton Block

One must-visit spot in PMQ is "SOHOFAMA," a collaborative restaurant by the iconic "G.O.D." brand and the organic eatery "Locofama" from Sai Wan. Specializing in organic Chinese cuisine, SOHOFAMA has become a hot dining destination in Hong Kong, with some visitors coming to PMQ solely for this experience.

Inside the restaurant, you'll also find G.O.D.'s signature lifestyle goods for sale, making it a perfect combination of dining and shopping. The dishes, prepared with organic vegetables, are not only healthy but also delicious, attracting a loyal crowd of locals. Be sure to try their popular dishes like "Black Truffle Xiao Long Bao" and "Dan Dan Noodles."

Additionally, Staunton Block is home to "Cafe Life," a cozy café owned by a Japanese proprietor. With a roaster imported from Japan and carefully selected coffee beans from around the world, this café offers a memorable coffee experience. Their desserts, including roll cakes, tarts, and cookies, are also highly praised.

6. How to Get to PMQ

From MTR Central Station (Island/Tsuen Wan Line), Exit D1: 13-minute walk
After exiting at D1, head towards Queen’s Road Central (皇后大道中) and walk westward for a short distance until you reach Pottinger Street (砵典乍街). Continue via Lyndhurst Terrace (擺花街) and take the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator to Staunton Street (士丹頓街). Proceed west, turn right at the intersection with Aberdeen Street (鴨巴甸街), and head downhill—you’ll see PMQ shortly.

From MTR Sheung Wan Station (Island Line), Exit E2: 5-minute walk
Exit at E2 and walk straight along Wellington Street (威靈頓街). Turn right at the corner of "Lin Heung Tea House" (蓮香樓) and walk uphill along the slope. PMQ will appear as you ascend. However, as the 5-minute route involves a steep incline, consider using Central Station if you prefer an easier walk.

◎ Summary: Explore the Bustling Neighborhoods Around PMQ

Around PMQ, you’ll find Hong Kong’s popular tourist spots, including SOHO, which is great for strolling, and Lan Kwai Fong, known for its trendy bars. The Sheung Wan and Central areas are also renowned as gourmet hotspots, offering a wide variety of cuisines such as Chinese, Korean, Indian, Middle Eastern, Hawaiian, Japanese, French, and Italian. These areas buzz with activity from morning till night, attracting countless tourists. Use this article as a guide to not only explore PMQ but also to enjoy the dynamic streets of Sheung Wan and Central.

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PMQ: A Deep Dive into the Charm of Hong Kong’s Most Creative Spot!