Grammy-winning designer Xiao Qingyang shows you the way: Experience Hong Kong’s unique urban aesthetics

By MOOK Scenic Spots (Text)  
 
Renowned Grammy Award-winning designer Xiao Qingyang visited Hong Kong just before Lunar New Year and generously shared his hidden travel gems and aesthetic insights into the city. Amid the fast-paced lifestyle, Hong Kong has gradually developed a uniquely local “aesthetics of busyness,” where graffiti, countryside escapes, and architecture are key to experiencing the city’s living beauty.

Art-loving travelers and art enthusiasts, get ready for the highly anticipated “Hong Kong Arts Month”! Throughout March, the streets of Hong Kong will be filled with an artistic atmosphere, bringing together three world-class art experiences — the Hong Kong Arts Festival, Art Basel, and Art Central.

Walking around Hong Kong, it’s not hard to notice that the entire city serves as a canvas for artists. This year’s newest hotspot for graffiti photo ops is PMQ in Sai Ying Pun, a trendy area bustling with shops in Central and Sheung Wan. Many old building walls and staircases feature street murals created by both local and international artists. Xiao Qingyang personally recommends the “City?” space, where on the second floor you can find murals painted by young local artists. These vibrant creations vividly reflect the area’s unique character, allowing visitors to discover hidden stories behind shops and artworks, adding a touch of fun to Hong Kong’s streets.

Xiao Qingyang said, “My design inspiration often comes from my love and observation of nature, but I never imagined Hong Kong could offer such beautiful countryside experiences.” He witnessed the meeting of mountains and sea, and the grandeur of hexagonal rock columns — the beauty of Hong Kong’s wilderness is vividly captured through his lens. The magnificence of nature not only inspires artists but also brings a sense of beauty to urban dwellers. During this visit, Xiao Qingyang explored the MacLehose Trail, which has been ranked by National Geographic as one of the “20 Best Hiking Trails in the World.” The stunning scenery along the trail makes it one of Hong Kong’s must-visit destinations.

The Xiqu Centre is the first newly opened cultural and creative destination in Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Cultural District. Its architecture is inspired by traditional Chinese lanterns, and its blend of modern and classic design elements is one of its standout features. The eight-story steel structure showcases a futuristic feel through contemporary architectural design. In addition to large-scale traditional opera performances, visitors can enjoy the “Yum Cha Theatre” experience at the Tea House Theatre — sipping tea and tasting dim sum while watching a show — making it a great introduction to Chinese opera for first-timers.