Exploring the Vibrant SME Scene in Tsim Sha Tsui
Introduction
Hong Kong, as Asia’s World City, is home to many SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises). In fact, 98.3% of entities in Hong Kong are registered as SMEs (90% are small enterprises), and 60% of the working-age population works for SMEs. Numerous factors contribute to this, such as Hong Kong’s policies of free enterprise and free trade. Many of these SMEs are located in Yau Tsim Mong District, and can be found in neighborhoods like Tsim Sha Tsui, where Chungking Mansions and Mirador Mansion are located. But, did you know that ‘The Mansions’ were once known as the biggest shopping malls of Hong Kong, and later a hive of activity for criminals and illegal activities?
A Storied Past
Chungking Mansions - Originally Built for Residents
Chungking Mansions, originally built as a residential complex in 1963, occupies a unique place in the history of Hong Kong’s peninsula. Chungking Mansions is primarily known as a commercial building in the bustling neighbourhood of Tsim Sha Tsui. Initially, it was conceived as a cluster of five high-rise residential buildings (SCMP). The five towers of the structure were centered around a second-floor shopping area, which was known as The Hong Kong Shopping Mart, while the buildings themselves served as middle-class accommodations.
From Shady to Safe
As time passed, the building gained a shady reputation, as it became a hive for illegal activities. The closed-off nature of the building’s design led some to liken it to the Kowloon Walled City, and activities such as teenage drug use, prostitution, and gambling became popular. Triad crime gangs and smugglers found Chungking Mansions to be a safe haven for their criminal activities, which eventually led the Hong Kong police to install a CCTV system in the 1990s and 2000s (SCMP). Since then, its reputation as a center for crime has slowly decreased, although some illegal activities persist. Today, Chungking Mansions hosts a diverse assortment of people and cultures; its affordable housing makes it a hotspot for new immigrants, backpackers and budget travellers to the city, and many seek business opportunities within its walls. Some estimate that one-fifth of all mobiles used in sub-Saharan Africa have passed through Chungking Mansions (SCMP), and many ethnically diverse small businesses have taken root, such as diverse cuisine restaurants, unique shops with ethnic services or religious products, as well as many grocery shops selling ethnic goods.
Now a Hub Flourishing with Ethnically Diverse Micro Businesses
In addition to the iconic Chungking Mansions, the nearby Mirador Mansion also hosts a vibrant community of SMEs. Both of these mansions have become hubs of diverse businesses, catering to the needs of the local community, new immigrants, backpackers, and visitors to the city.
Many unique and ethnically diverse businesses can be found within the walls of these two iconic landmarks. From speciality grocery stores and halal-friendly restaurants to custom tailors and travel agencies, these mansions offer a wide range of products and services that cater to the diverse population of Tsim Sha Tsui. Despite their unassuming exteriors, these buildings are veritable treasure troves, filled with hidden gems that are often overlooked by locals and tourists alike. In the sections that follow, we highlight some of the notable businesses according to different categories that we believe are worth visiting and exploring.
Discover Shopping & Retail Businesses
Habibi Arabian Perfumes
Habibi Arabian Perfumes specialises in Middle Eastern scents like jasmine, amber, and oud. They offer perfumes from renowned brands like Swiss Arabian and Ajmal.
Chinese Custom Tailor
Chinese Custom Tailor is a longstanding, family-operated business that has served the community for over 60 years. As a Pakistani-owned tailor shop, it offers a unique cultural flair and expertise in creating custom attire.
Buraq Enterprises Co.
Buraq Enterprises Co. is Hong Kong’s premier Islamic shop, offering a wide range of authentic products, including Islamic wear and fragrances, all sourced from trusted suppliers.
Discover Dining Restaurants
Bismillah Kebab House
Bismillah Kebab House is a certified halal-friendly restaurant specialising in Middle Eastern, Indian and Pakistani cuisine, such as their Turkish Doner Kebabs.
Ghana Locals
Ghana Locals offers authentic African dishes such as Jollof Rice and Fufu. Experience the rich flavors of Ghanaian, Nigerian, and East African cuisine.
Karaikudi Akka
Karaikudi Akka Restaurant provides North and South Indian, as well as Malaysian dishes. Enjoy their light and crispy dosas at any time of the day.
Find Karaikudi Akka on GuideFongNew Chettinad
Since the 2010s, New Chettinad offers authentic Halal South Indian cuisine, featuring a variety of vegetarian options. Their Laccha Parantha's are a must-try.
Paul’S Kitchen
Paul's Kitchen is an African fusion restaurant well known for its Spicy Chicken Pot. Founded in 2015, it combines Ghanaian ingredients with culinary passion.
Moti Palace
Moti Palace is a luxurious fine dining restaurant offering Indian cuisine with top-notch service. It's a popular spot for locals and celebrities alike.
Find Moti Palace on GuideFong
Discover Ethnically Diverse Grocery Shops
New Delhi Store Ltd
New Delhi Store Ltd is your go-to for Indian provisions. They offer a wide selection of products with free delivery on orders over HK $300.
Find New Delhi Store Ltd on GuideFongShalom International Company
Shalom International Company is a grocery store specializing in African products. It's a hub for authentic West African foodstuffs and cosmetics, serving a unique niche in the city.
Find Shalom International Company on GuideFong
Discover Lifestyle and Other Hidden Gems
Chakwal International Hair Salon
Chakwal International Hair Salon, a steady favorite of many since 1992, provides exceptional grooming services. Their skilled barbers offer haircuts, threading, and a rejuvenating head massage.
Shah Studio & Video Production
Shah Studio & Video Production offers over 20 years of expertise in photography and videography for events like weddings and corporate functions. They cater to a diverse clientele, handling requests in multiple languages.
R.N. Trading Limited
R.N. Trading Limited is a tech store specializing in secondhand mobile phones and accessories such as power banks and screen protectors. They meet all your technology needs with a broad selection of electronics.
Gopal’s HK Limited
Gopal’s HK Limited is a family-run travel agency with 50 years of experience. They offer services including air ticketing, hotel bookings, and assistance with China Visas.
Gujrat International Haircut
Gujrat International Haircut, established 15 years ago, offers a range of grooming services including haircuts, shaves, and facials. Their skilled Pakistani barbers ensure top-notch service.
Discover More with GuideFong
While we have mostly featured Chungking Mansions and Mirador Mansion, there’s more to the Tsim Sha Tsui neighborhood and its rich tapestry! Explore even more businesses and their cultural diversity with GuideFong.
If you're interested in learning more about how we support these small businesses, reach out to us at info@guidefong.org. Stay tuned for our other blog posts too!
