SoHo, Hong Kong
SoHo (Chinese: 蘇豪區; officially 中環蘇豪區) is a district situated on the western boundary of Central in Hong Kong, adjacent to Sheung Wan. It is renowned for its diverse array of dining establishments, bars, and entertainment spots. The district’s name originates from its position South of Hollywood Road.
History
The development of the Central–Mid-Levels escalator in 1993, which was the longest escalator system worldwide at that time, significantly altered SoHo’s character. Previously dominated by elderly residents, aging warehouses, and porcelain shops, the area evolved into a lively neighborhood. Today, Staunton and Elgin Streets are lined with eateries, pubs, nightclubs, art galleries, and antique shops. Additionally, SoHo is home to Asia’s inaugural permanent comedy venue, The TakeOut Comedy Club Hong Kong. The buildings typically feature commercial spaces on the lower levels with residential units above. The relatively affordable housing attracted many expatriates due to its close proximity to the central business district.
The term SoHo was first introduced in a 1996 article by Thomas Goetz, an Elgin Street restaurateur who later helped establish The SoHo Association Limited (TSAL) in 1998. TSAL serves as a representative body for local businesses concerning licensing and promotional activities. Jean-Paul Gauci served as the association’s inaugural chairman.
In 2000, Kam Nai-wai, a member of the Democratic Party, suggested renaming SoHo to the "Elgin/Staunton Street Themed Dining Area," citing concerns that the name "SoHo" carried negative implications and associations with red-light districts. This perspective ironically referenced Elgin Street’s historical identity in the 1860s as "Foreign Girls Street," known for European-operated brothels. The Democratic Party opposed officially adopting the name SoHo, preferring a designation that would avoid connections to alcohol-related activities and London’s Soho district.
SoHo represents a microcosm of the ongoing dialogue between preserving Chinese and colonial heritage and embracing contemporary urban development. The escalator system epitomizes this transformation by facilitating the influx of expatriates and new enterprises that contrast with traditional Cantonese culture. This fusion enhances the neighborhood’s appeal, drawing visitors to cultural landmarks such as the Sun Yat-sen Historical Trail and the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum amidst modern high-rise buildings.
This juxtaposition is particularly evident along Hollywood Road’s northern side, where the luxurious Centre Stage residential complex stands adjacent to the historic Man Mo Temple.