Wan Chai Fire Station
435 Hennessy Road
Wan Chai Fire Station is the oldest fire station still standing in Hong Kong. Its maroon facade and retro-style balconies distinguish it from other fire stations in the city, which have followed a standard design since 1958. In 1966, Hong Kong experienced a drought so severe that the Water Authority put a ban in place, during which fire stations had to share their water supply with the general public and would only receive water every four days until the drought ended.
Wan Chai Fire Station stands next to the Canal Road flyover on Hennessy Road. Evelyn Phoa would pass by the Wan Chai Fire Station every day on her way to school. “I couldn’t help but wonder what was happening behind those doors,” she says. The four-storey building houses offices, a canteen, dormitory for on-duty firemen, a recreation room, kitchen and bathroom, married quarters and more.
More Stories
Causeway Bay: Then & Now
Feature
Causeway Bay embodies the many facets of Hong Kong – the fast pace, fascinating contrasts and dynamic energy. From the city’s very beginning to the present day, its diversity and vibrancy makes it a beloved neighbourhood.
-
Sandy Ki
Owner, Old San Yang
It’s difficult to imagine Causeway Bay as anything but a bustling metropolis, but Sandy Ki has witnessed the neighbourhood evolve into the burgeoning business and shopping hub it is today…
-
Brian Siswojo & Ball Ng
Founder & Head Barber / Partner, Handsome Factory
Nestled in a quiet corner of Causeway Bay is a street known for its neighbourhood vibe and eclectic mix of independent shops. In 2015, skate shop owner Brian Siswojo…
-
Auntie Yuk
Pantyhose vendor on Pak Sha Road
“I’ve had customers, including celebrities and politicians, who would definitely get upset if I ever moved my stall. I’m sure they’d be asking people…
-
The Fjelddahl Family
Neena, Parida, Bobo the dog, Bjorn, Noa
Neena: “Causeway Bay is home.”
Bjorn: “We’ve lived in Causeway Bay for about 10 years…
-
Mimosa Lee
Salesperson
“My favourite thing in Causeway Bay? The sound of the peanut shells crunching under my feet at Inn Side Out back when it was in Sunning Plaza. I had some great…
-
Sam Pinder
General Manager, Hong Kong Sevens
Sam Pinder laughs when he is asked why he became a rugby player. “I hail from New Zealand – and I’m pretty sure when you get born there, you get a rugby ball…
-
James Robertson
Founder of El Grande Concepts
Chances are you’ve eaten at one of El Grande Concepts’ many bars and restaurants. They include Hong Kong favourites Grappa’s and Inn Side Out. Founder James Robertson…
-
Grandma Poon
Resident of Causeway Bay
“I was born on Lockhart Road back in 1933. I was 20 years old when I was sent to Cuba to be married and have a family. We came back in 1960 and later bought property…
Celebrating Causeway Bay
Feature
A neighbourhood in flux, Causeway Bay’s constant evolution keeps residents and visitors coming back for more. Whether it’s fashion, food, film or art, it’s a part of Hong Kong that keeps people mesmerised and inspired.
Causeway Bay: Then & Now
Feature
Causeway Bay embodies the many facets of Hong Kong – the fast pace, fascinating contrasts and dynamic energy. From the city’s very beginning to the present day, its diversity and vibrancy makes it a beloved neighbourhood.
-
Mimosa Lee
Salesperson
“My favourite thing in Causeway Bay? The sound of the peanut shells crunching under my feet at Inn Side Out back when it was in Sunning Plaza. I had some great…
-
Sam Pinder
General Manager, Hong Kong Sevens
Sam Pinder laughs when he is asked why he became a rugby player. “I hail from New Zealand – and I’m pretty sure when you get born there, you get a rugby ball…
-
James Robertson
Founder of El Grande Concepts
Chances are you’ve eaten at one of El Grande Concepts’ many bars and restaurants. They include Hong Kong favourites Grappa’s and Inn Side Out. Founder James Robertson…
-
Grandma Poon
Resident of Causeway Bay
“I was born on Lockhart Road back in 1933. I was 20 years old when I was sent to Cuba to be married and have a family. We came back in 1960 and later bought property…
