The Mei Ho House in Hong Kong — Wu Yusen once lived here too — has transformed from history to a stylish and trendy youth hostel

▲ The exterior of Mei Ho House has changed little.

Reported and photographed by Xiao Wanning, reporter in Hong Kong

In 1953, a massive fire in Shek Kip Mei left over 50,000 residents homeless, but also forged a new bond among them. Against this backdrop, Hong Kong’s first public resettlement estate — Mei Ho House — was born. Construction began in 1954 and was completed in 1963. Now, having weathered nearly six decades, Mei Ho House......has been reborn as a youth hostel in Sham Shui Po. It’s not just a place to stay — you won’t want to leave after even one night.

▲ Mei Ho House even invited local high school students to spruce up the communal spaces (left), offering both enclosed and open communal areas (right).

The renowned Hong Kong director John Woo once dreamed up his cinematic visions in the neighborhood. Now, these former public housing blocks have been transformed into cozy guest rooms, letting travelers experience the resilience of the past firsthand.Mei Ho House has a total of 129 rooms, including 93 double rooms, 8 family rooms, 10 group rooms for 8 people, and 14 themed rooms. There's also the Mei Ho House Story Hall where visitors can learn about its rich history. Open to all guests and travelers alike, it offers insights beyond just a place to sleep.Said Christine Tsang, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Youth Hostels Association, “Mei Ho House is more than accommodation — it tells the story of how people in Hong Kong used to live.”

▲ The Mei Ho House Story Hall features many interactive exhibits that make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

In terms of accommodation, the room layouts at Mei Ho House largely resemble those of the original public housing units, with the main differences being population density per room and the location of bathrooms. Originally, over 10 people were crammed into each 120-square-foot unit (about 3.4 pyeong), and 320 people shared just six toilets. Now...every room has its own toilet and shower. Double rooms are 269 square feet (about 7 pyeong) and cost HK$680 (about NT$2,631) including breakfast.Located in the heart of Hong Kong, the price is remarkably affordable.

▲ The double room is not only spacious but also has private bathroom facilities.

Another option designed for backpackers and group travelers is the 8-person room, which is also very comfortable. It includes two shared bathrooms and showers, four bunk beds, lockers with power outlets.The room is 312 square feet (about 11.6 pyeong), costs just HK$200 (about NT$774) per night, and includes breakfast.It’s not just accommodation — it’s a great chance to meet fellow travelers.

▲ Group rooms feature four bunk beds (left) and lockers with power outlets (right).

There are also themed rooms designed especially for families traveling together.At 412 square feet (about 11.6 pyeong), these rooms can comfortably accommodate a family of four. They are decorated around the nostalgic theme of 1960s–70s green-and-white checkered tiles.Not only that, there are vintage-style furnishings and photos that fully immerse you in old Hong Kong. Priced at HK$1,620 (about NT$6,269) per night including breakfast, it’s a perfect choice for a family trip to Hong Kong.

▲ The family room features one double bed (left) and two single beds (right).