Hollywood Road Hong Kong: An Antique Hunter’s Dream Come True

Antique lovers have been flocking to China for manyWhen looking to purchase goods from these antique
years. The country’s rich and diverse history hasstores, visitors should know that bargaining is a
enabled it to produce spectacular examples ofcommon practice. The prices displayed may
furniture, garments and porcelain that are renownedsometimes far exceed the value of the item in an
the world over.attempt to promote bargaining.
Of the many major antique hubs in the key citiesAfter a busy day of antique shopping, travellers can
such as Shanghai and Beijing, Hong Kong SAR’stake in the various landmarks and parks dotted
arises as one of the most popular and easilyaround Hollywood Road. The Man Mo Temple is one
accessible by locals and international antique collectorsof the oldest buildings on Hollywood Road. Built as a
and dealers.tribute to the god of literature (Man) and the god of
Hollywood Road was the second road to be built inwar (Mo), the quiet incense filled interior allows for a
the newly established colony of Hong Kong back inwelcome break from the hustle and bustle of Hong
1844. Despite its namesake the road has no relationKong’s busy streets. Many student come to this
to the Californian movie capital; in fact the road isshrine to pay tribute and wish for good luck during
actually named after the Holly trees that used tolocal examinations.
adorn the surrounding area.The second most popular landmark is the Central
The stretch of Hollywood Road is home to the heartPolice Station. This was the first police station in Hong
of the antiques industry in Hong Kong. VisitorsKong to be setup by the British in 1864. The police
exploring the road will feel as if they have steppedstation received many expansions throughout its
into a giant walk-in street museum housing variousservice including a two storied Stable block and
artefacts both ancient and modern.adjoining Headquarters block. The police station lies
Lining the street are galleries and shops catering fromalongside the Victoria Prison and Central Magistracy.
high end rare antiques to more modern MaoistTogether they stand as prime examples of British
collectibles. Visitors will find items such as traditionalcolonial architecture symbolising the roots of modern
Chinese furniture, rattan, porcelain and Buddhalaw and order in the region.
sculptures.