BLUE HOUSE

The Blue House is certainly Wan Chai's most famous building. A jewel of architecture and history, it tells the story of Hong Kong's social evolution. Built in the 1920s, this house with its bright blue facade is a rare example of a "tong lau", a 3 to 5-storey building combining Chinese and colonial influences that housed shops and residential units. Its wood and brick frame, combined with a functional design, illustrate an architectural style that has all but disappeared in a city dominated by skyscrapers.

Originally, the Blue House served as a dispensary for traditional Chinese medicine, a place where local residents came to collect their potions in case of trouble. Later, it was transformed into a residence for modest families, often living in precarious conditions but characterized by a strong community spirit.

After an exemplary renovation, the Blue House is now part of the "Blue House Cluster", a preservation project that also includes the neighboring Yellow and Orange Houses. Mind you, it's still inhabited, but it offers a lively little museum, where visitors can explore exhibits on local life, discover period artifacts and listen to moving tales from former residents. Guided tours are also available to immerse yourself in the history and architecture of the place. Afterwards, take a stroll through the surrounding streets, where old garage owners rub shoulders with trendy cafés.