Tai Kwun is the colloquial name used by Hong Kong people to refer to the former police headquarters. With over 180 years of history, the group of historic buildings are among some of the most significant and visually appealing in town. The Police Headquarters Block is one of the most impressive heritage buildings in Tai Kwun. Forming the public face of the complex, the northern façade was designed with features that represent authority; while the southern façade was built in a simpler style with red bricks.

After being decommissioned, the conservation and revitalisation of Tai Kwun was led and managed by The Hong Kong Jockey Club. Tai Kwun made a triumphant return to the city in 2018 after a decade of conservation, boasting the addition of two contemporary buildings and a brand-new identity as a vibrant cultural heart. It’s always a good idea for first-time visitors to check out their permanent Heritage Exhibitions, featuring the history, stories, and lives of people inside Tai Kwun. Be sure to explore the Heritage Exhibitions at the B and D Halls of the former Victoria Prison, which bring fresh perspectives on heritage through the prison’s complex histories, the real people, and their experiences within the walls. There are also guided tours for those who want a deeper understanding of the compound’s buildings, stories, and conservation work — there’s no better way to absorb Tai Kwun’s historical significance and heritage value.

Tai Kwun invites all visitors to a journey of discovery that unites multiple genres of arts, heritage, culture and lifestyle in Hong Kong. Here, visitors can discover the rich heritage of the site through the thematic exhibitions and immersive public programmes that explore Hong Kong’s history and culture, alongside a multitude of vibrant and inclusive contemporary art presentations and performing arts offerings all year round.

Apart from cultural activities, visitors can also simply soak in Hong Kong’s layered heritage from the comfort of Tai Kwun’s many shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. The Gallery by Soil is Hong Kong’s first gallery dedicated to the art of lacquer, bringing together lacquer artists and masters from diverse cultures across Asia.

The culinary offerings in Tai Kwun can almost take diners around the globe, with casual French bites at Cafe Claudel, exquisite Cantonese cuisine at Madame Fù Grand Café Chinois, top-notch Japanese fare at Sushi Zo, stately imperial Indian cuisine at Prince and the Peacock, traditional London dishes at Magistracy Dining Room, cocktails at Gishiki Lounge, drinks at a speakeasy-style bar 001, or coffee and tea from the former jail cell that now houses On the hill coffee bar. There’s definitely something to be said for enjoying food and drinks in a century-old historical monument.