Shek Tong Tsui 石塘嘴 is an area in downtown Hong Kong located on the northwestern part of Hong Kong Island. It is located between Kennedy Town to the west, Sai Ying Pun to the east, Victoria Harbour to the north and Victoria Peak to the south.
The name Shek Tong Tsui means "stone pond cape", as it was an area protruding into the sea. There was a stone quarry here in the 17th century. It was operated by the Hakka people who settled in the area during the pre-colonial period.
By the late 19th century, Shek Tong Tsui has evolved into a working class neighbourhood. During that time, the brothels in Sheung Wan were relocated here, turning it into a red light district. This came to an end when the Hong Kong Government banned prostitution in 1935. However it again became a red light district during the Japanese Occupation, when the Japanese military allowed brothels to operate in the area - the only clients being the Japanese themselves. After the war, the British returned and reenforced the ban.
Western Court and Chong Yip Shopping Centre in Shek Tong Tsui
In the post-war years, Shek Tong Tsui began to urbanize as the city spreads outwards from Central.
How to go to Shek Tong Tsui
Shek Tong Tsui is not served by the MTR (at least, not till the Island Line is extended here, scheduled for 2014). You can get there by taking Bus 5C from Luard Road, Wan Chai. The fare is HK$3.40.
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