On the afternoon of 21 February 2026, Cultural Studies lecturers, Dr. Dickson Cheung and Miss Fiona Wong, led students on a walking tour through some of the most historic corners of Hong Kong’s Central and Western districts. The group began at the beautifully restored Asia Society Hong Kong Centre, built on the site of the former Victoria Barracks explosives magazine, before continuing to the soaring Gothic arches of St John’s Cathedral, the elegant Catholic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the incense-filled Man Mo Temple, and finally the bustling Tai Ping Shan Street with its narrow lanes and lively neighbourhood shops.
Participants explored how these sites weave together layers of history, striking architecture, and living culture—colonial cathedrals standing alongside ancient Chinese temples, and streets that have quietly evolved while retaining their distinct Hong Kong character.
Left & middle: Dr. Dickson Cheung explains the historical and cultural significance of Asia Society and Man Mo Temple. Right: Miss Fiona Wong outlines creative principles in street photography.
To inspire their photography, the students were introduced to three photographers renowned for capturing the city’s essence: Fan Ho, whose black-and-white masterpieces from the 1950s–60s transform everyday street scenes into dramatic plays of light and shadow; Michael Wolf, who focused on the dizzying density of Hong Kong’s high-rises and the intimate human moments within them; and Romain Jacquet-Lagrèze, celebrated for his bold images of soaring vertical lines, glowing neon, and layered urban textures.
Motivated, the students took to their cameras with curiosity and enthusiasm. The atmosphere was lively throughout, and students’ laughter left the tour visibly energized. Their resulting photographs proved remarkably powerful—raw, personal, and brimming with fresh perspectives on the city’s heritage, from grand facades to the small, everyday details that bring Hong Kong to life.
This vibrant outing has set an excellent foundation for the upcoming photo contest and exhibition, where these striking student works will be proudly displayed. Further updates will follow soon.
