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#852stories
#852stories is a video-led series focusing on unusual and quirky trends or just interesting takes on life in our hometown Hong Kong. The number 852, by the way, is the dialling code for the city. Do drop us an email at 852stories@scmp.com if you have stories for us to explore.
Updated: 22 Nov, 2025
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[1]
Meet Dr Toilet, the 78-year-old ‘supoohero’ fighting for Hong Kong loos
Henry Hung is founding member and president of Hong Kong Toilet Association, best known for annual surveys ranking best and worst public loos.
22 Nov, 2025
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[2]
Anxiety to admiration: a day as a triathlon trainee with Hong Kong’s top coach
Post reporter takes a personal dive into elite triathlon training under coach Andrew Wright for a tough – but eye-opening – challenge.
15 Nov, 2025
[3]
Veteran suit maker recounts the rise and fall of Hong Kong tailoring industry
Master Woo, who dressed prominent figures such as tycoon Li Ka-shing, says greatest regret is not being able to pass on decades-long experience to next generation.
08 Nov, 2025
[4]
Why budget-friendly ‘2-dish-rice’ shops are feeling the pinch in Hong Kong
Despite popularity of such takeaway options during the pandemic, these shops are now facing rising costs, growing competition.
01 Nov, 2025
[5]
Hongkonger fights to save 60-year-old shop amid Kowloon City redevelopment
Instead of chasing a professional career, Tony Lam, 22, chooses to preserve his family’s business amid changes in old Kowloon City neighbourhood.
25 Oct, 2025
[6]
Australian in Hong Kong wins locals over with efforts to learn Cantonese
Strategy consultant Jonas Groom, 29, posts clips online of his progress learning language, and while his tones may be ‘terrible’, locals are impressed.
11 Oct, 2025
[7]
Hong Kong lantern maker crafts his own legacy with father as ‘apprentice’
Hui Ka-hung did not inherit his craft from his father but works with him, drawing encouragement and life lessons to keep a tough business going.
04 Oct, 2025
[8]
A cut above: 4-decade-old Shanghai-style salon in Hong Kong endures test of time
Luk Chung-yan, 78, is among a shrinking number of barbers running Shanghai-style salons, which offer trims and shaves in an atmosphere steeped in history.
27 Sep, 2025
[9]
Meet the musician who turns Hong Kong’s noise pollution into urban symphonies
Laurie Lau, 27, who went viral for remixing city noises into songs, explains how curiosity led him to reimagine stressful sounds as harmonies.
20 Sep, 2025
[10]
How a Hong Kong mum’s eloquent balloon fest rant won fans and refunds
‘I have been told that having a crazy woman like me standing up has awoken the idea in some people that they can fight too,’ Dreamy Ho says.
13 Sep, 2025
[11]
Hongkongers learn how to ‘break the gates of hell’ for Hungry Ghost Festival
Solemn ritual is traditionally performed by Taoist priests for funerals, but workshop offers residents chance to give the practice a go.
06 Sep, 2025
[12]
Hongkongers put their best foot forward in city’s first leg-shaking showdown
Sixty-four people are vying for the crown of fastest leg shaker, transforming a habit considered uncouth into a thrilling contest.
03 Sep, 2025
[13]
Conservation caw: Hong Kong’s first bird call contest raises ecological awareness
Chirpy residents show off their unique vocal talents as part of efforts to promote city’s rich yet often overlooked biodiversity.
30 Aug, 2025
[14]
Hong Kong teahouses cherish their dim sum trolleys, but how long can they last?
Emblems of tradition and nostalgia, classic dim sum restaurants face economic pressures and retirement of older generation of chefs.
23 Aug, 2025
[15]
Smoke grenades, live animals delivered to Hong Kong? How sellers evade crackdown
Listings on mainland Chinese sites Taobao and Pinduoduo under increased scrutiny after arrest of Hong Kong teen who allegedly bought smoke grenades.
16 Aug, 2025
[16]
Can going to Hong Kong internet cafes help you score Blackpink concert tickets?
The Post finds out whether visiting such outlets offers advantage in securing tickets, as fans try to beat rampant scalper activity.
09 Aug, 2025
[17]
How easy is it to ride with Hong Kong’s 5 premium taxi fleets? Only 1 passes test
Post reporters test out services of five operators in city centre, but most struggle to take orders and dispatch drivers.
02 Aug, 2025
[18]
Should Hong Kong’s baked pork chop rice be an intangible heritage dish?
Classic Hong Kong favourite is combination of East and West, reflecting city’s unique colonial history and cultural evolution.
26 Jul, 2025
[19]
Are AI-based forecasts changing the way Hong Kong’s typhoon watchers work?
Post receives an exclusive tour of the Hong Kong Observatory’s ‘war room’ and hears how AI stacks up against traditional prediction models.
19 Jul, 2025
[20]
Walk through history at soon-to-be-demolished Hong Kong sea-view public estate
Walking tours organiser wants to tell the stories of Wah Fu Estate and its residents before the site is demolished for redevelopment.
12 Jul, 2025
[21]
Why are more Hong Kong pupils opting for IB programme over DSE?
Number of IB students in the city has jumped nearly 20 per cent over past five years, with more preferring its ‘creative’ curriculum over the DSE.
05 Jul, 2025
[22]
Meet the Hong Kong tour guide offering visitors an Anthony Bourdain-style trip
Angel Lau encourages travellers to step beyond the city’s glitzy side and sample lesser-known locations showcasing its true essence.
28 Jun, 2025
[23]
Kyoto in Hong Kong? The towns drawing mainlanders with their ‘Japanese’ charms
Tuen Mun, Kennedy Town and Tai Wai Village have seen an increase in visitors who liken them – improbably – to Japan’s Sapporo, Kamakura and Kyoto.
21 Jun, 2025
[24]
How US$11 can get you a day trip for 2 plus lunch in pricey Hong Kong
Low-budget tours in Hong Kong are becoming increasingly popular among mainland Chinese visitors. The Post goes along for the ride.
14 Jun, 2025
[25]
How ‘crazy guys’ of Hong Kong football fan club Chi Sin Lo get their kicks
Members of Chi Sin Lo, which translates to ‘crazy guys’, say their cheerleading efforts have drummed up support for city’s football team.
07 Jun, 2025
[26]
Why ‘insecure’ young Hongkongers are looking for answers from tarot cards
Practitioners Ceci Yeung and Gladys Phan say clients’ questions reflect changing times in city, with some seeking more than simple answers.
31 May, 2025
[27]
A new hope for Hong Kong comics: artist lands dream Star Wars manga gig
Man Tsang beats artists from around the world to be chosen by Disney to adapt beloved novel about villain Grand Admiral Thrawn.
24 May, 2025
[28]
Kung fu hustle: Hong Kong action film actor turns mentor for stunt performers
Since 2022, Andrew Clifford Pong has run a club that teaches enthusiasts and budding professionals the ups and downs of cinematic stunt work.
17 May, 2025
[29]
How Kwai Chung Plaza became an affordable culinary hotspot for Hongkongers
Plaza breaks mould of modern shopping centres, offering affordable eats ranging from fishballs to egg waffles and local-style beef sliders.
10 May, 2025
[30]
Meet the top Hong Kong ice climber looking to become ‘queen of bun queens’
Janet Kung is set to compete in bun-scrambling contest at Cheung Chau Bun Festival and hopes to be crowned winner for third time.
03 May, 2025
[31]
Meet the young women leaping to prominence in Hong Kong’s lion dance scene
The Kwok’s Girls of Kwok’s Kung Fu and Dragon Lion Dance Team are breaking gender barriers and bringing new energy to a traditional art form.
26 Apr, 2025
[32]
How skateboarding park that is milestone for Hong Kong fulfilled boyhood dream
Construction of skatepark in Fanling, which has been certified by international governing body, was no easy feat, consultant Warren Stuart says.
19 Apr, 2025
[33]
Hong Kong reporter’s 20kg weight-loss journey opens conversation on body image
City desk reporter Oscar Liu shares his trials and triumphs in bringing down his weight from 98kg last September to 78kg in January.
12 Apr, 2025
[34]
Siu mai saviour? Hong Kong group aims to preserve and promote dim sum staple
Online group has become a platform to share reviews about street food favourite that is ‘closely intertwined with the history of Hong Kong’.
05 Apr, 2025
[35]
A Samoan’s mission to bring ancient fire knife dance to Hong Kong
Masoe Hogan Toomalatai, 41, says fire knife dancing will help raise confidence and foster cultural exchanges among people with diverse backgrounds.
29 Mar, 2025
[36]
Hong Kong runner takes on week of ultra-marathons for charity, covering 350km
After nine months of training, Kevin Field is putting himself to the test to inspire others and raise HK$35,000 to support Hong Kong’s refugees.
22 Mar, 2025
[37]
Study at Disneyland? Student trend in Shanghai catches on in Hong Kong
Disney fans seek ‘uplifting’ study spot, even amid the loud music and screams of excited visitors.
15 Mar, 2025
[38]
All about mahjong: Hong Kong parlour inducts newbies to beloved game
One parlour owner hopes to polish up image of ‘smoky dens associated with gangs’ to draw players of all age and experience levels.
08 Mar, 2025
[39]
Will Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park breathe new life into nearby bars?
Wan Chai may be handing over its Hong Kong Sevens nightlife crown, but bar owners near new stadium are not buying the buzz just yet.
01 Mar, 2025
[40]
Ex-Miss Hong Kong winner and other pet owners bewildered by spate of poisonings
Dog owners describe horrors of watching their pets seize up after ingesting poisoned meat laid out on streets and call for tougher penalties for the crime.
22 Feb, 2025
[41]
The Hong Kong party rooms where no surveillance is the selling point
Some companies are also offering bedsheets, separate showers and sofa beds, potentially operating in a grey area given guest house licensing rules.
15 Feb, 2025
[42]
How The Flame fires up Hong Kong fans with Cantopop hits in popular busking gigs
As The Flame’s popularity grows, the band is facing challenges navigating logistics and regulatory restrictions.
08 Feb, 2025
[43]
Trump on Show: hit opera with young Hongkongers to rerun, eyes global stage
Sunbeam Theatre in North Point to revive popular show as swansong ahead of March closure.
01 Feb, 2025
[44]
It’s snake time! This Hongkonger not only cooks reptiles, but also catches them
From catching venomous snakes to crafting unique soups and delicacies with king cobras, Chau Ka-ling can do it all.
25 Jan, 2025
[45]
Party’s over? Why spotlight on Gen Z hotspot in Hong Kong’s Kwun Tong is harmful
Public concerns over Kwun Tong Promenade may drive teenagers to hang out in private spaces instead, an expert says.
18 Jan, 2025
[46]
Can Hong Kong films top the successes of 2024 this year?
Academic Kenny Ng believes industry can continue to reinvent itself and build on momentum to produce wave of ‘human-centric’ films.
11 Jan, 2025
[47]
How a Hong Kong DJ is bringing the tunes of Joey Yung, Eason Chan to the world
Pete Sabine, also known as DJ Fabsabs, says he is on a quest to connect with Hongkongers globally through his Cantopop sets.
04 Jan, 2025
[48]
For Hong Kong special effects make-up artist, ‘gross’ is a compliment
Wilfred Wan, whose work has appeared in major blockbusters, shares the blood, sweat and slime of his intricate craft.
28 Dec, 2024
[49]
200 gather for 6km Christmas jog as Hong Kong running clubs gain popularity
Local offshoot of Midnight Runners has grown to 1,000 members, reflecting residents’ post-pandemic desire for fitness and connection.
21 Dec, 2024
[50]
Single in Hong Kong? Let your friends make your case to roomful of strangers
Pitch-A-Friend Hong Kong is becoming a popular option among residents seeking alternative to traditional dating apps.
14 Dec, 2024
[51]
Can mainland bargain-bin grocery stores push out Hong Kong’s dominant chains?
New entrant HotMaxx is winning customers by offering prices at a fraction of what ParknShop charges, bringing mainland sales tactics to Hong Kong.
07 Dec, 2024
[52]
Elderly Hong Kong couples create lasting memories at wedding vow renewal ceremony
Volunteers came together on Hong Kong’s Senior Citizens Day to hold wedding ceremony for couples aged 60 and above.
30 Nov, 2024
[53]
Cashing in on fitness: how Hyrox race is opening doors for Hong Kong businesses
Local boutique gyms, studios, freelance trainers and brands are tapping opportunities as competition grows in popularity.
23 Nov, 2024
[54]
The Nigerian Instagram blogger sharing bits of his life, culture in Cantonese
From cooking Nigerian food to bringing his girlfriend around Lagos, Adekunbi Hassan Salako has more than 100,000 followers on Instagram.
16 Nov, 2024
[55]
Walk in the park? Why it takes 1 hour to get from Hong Kong’s new stadium to TST
Post reporters test out public transport options at Kai Tak Sports Park and find construction sites throw up their share of hurdles.
09 Nov, 2024
[56]
Hairy adventure: how pet-friendly is Hong Kong’s public transport?
For many owners, taking a ‘family member’ out for trips around the city can be a costly, logistical nightmare, which is why a new bus service comes as a welcome change.
02 Nov, 2024
[57]
How Hong Kong’s teen Pokemon Go star teamed up with 75-year-old doctor
Cheng Yip-kai became first Hongkonger to be crowned Pokemon Go world champion in August and he says he has renowned doctor to thank.
26 Oct, 2024
[58]
Hong Kong is getting tough with surfers at local beaches. But many ask why now?
Authorities are suddenly enforcing a long-standing ban on surfing, but aficionados say officials are missing why the sport should be promoted instead.
19 Oct, 2024
[59]
Why is Hong Kong’s esports scene not in the game? More backing needed, fans say
City lags behind others in Asia as esports hub, but slice of rapidly growing US$5.39 billion market still up for grabs.
12 Oct, 2024
[60]
Buying happiness for HK$5? Why claw machines are suddenly all over Hong Kong
Claw machines that can now be found across the city have captivated young people, with some turning their addiction to playing into a business opportunity.
05 Oct, 2024
[61]
Hongkongers craving in-person connections turn to ‘secret’ dinners with strangers
Services have popped up to meet demand for authentic interactions in post-Covid world and amid social media fatigue.
28 Sep, 2024
[62]
How a 70-year-old fitness fanatic sparked a street workout movement in Hong Kong
‘Uncle Cheng’ and his crew have even amassed a following on their Instagram page showcasing their moves.
21 Sep, 2024
[63]
Pistachio cream cheese? Hong Kong mooncake makers hit, miss in redefining treat
Second-generation of family bakeries taking different approaches to seasonal offering, with some trying experimental flavours while others are sticking to traditional varieties.
14 Sep, 2024
[64]
Hong Kong’s ‘toy street’ loses some of its shine as 30-year-old shop closes
Wan Chai neighbourhood fixture Yat Sing Toys closes its doors as shopping preferences shift, triggering wave of nostalgia.
07 Sep, 2024
[65]
What do Hong Kong teens think about official advice on controlling sexual desire?
Teens criticise Education Bureau’s portrayal of boys’ inability to control their urges and what message girls’ choices of clothing send.
31 Aug, 2024
[66]
Can mainland Chinese restaurants break into Hong Kong amid changing tastes?
The stark change in city’s attitudes towards the food may be down to growing number of mainlanders calling it home.
24 Aug, 2024
[67]
Purrfect! How Hongkongers prefer cats to kids and pamper their furry babies
Hong Kong’s cat owners are happy to spend big on their furry companions and businesses are cashing in.
17 Aug, 2024
[68]
‘In our DNA’: Hongkongers take milk tea upmarket to keep tradition alive
Sifu Good Tea reinvents drink by offering versions such as red date black sugar milk tea with gin, and rock sugar tangerine peel puer with vodka.
10 Aug, 2024
[69]
Work-life clash as new Hong Kong graduates prioritise happiness over career goals
Graduates of two city universities say they have reservations about full-time work because of fears they must give up free time.
03 Aug, 2024
[70]
Dressed to thrill: why Hong Kong’s anime fans get kick out of cosplaying
Thousands of cosplayers are attending Hong Kong’s annual Ani-Com and Games fair at the convention centre in Wan Chai.
27 Jul, 2024
[71]
Hong Kong’s neon signs move indoors, as rules a hassle for outdoor displays
Neon signs have been disappearing in past decades, but some artists are keeping traditional trade alive through indoor installations.
20 Jul, 2024
[72]
The art of strolling in Hong Kong: slow down and discover a ‘city in the sky’
Chinese University urban researcher Sampson Wong wants more Hongkongers to explore old housing estates.
13 Jul, 2024
[73]
What gets 30kg of plants, biscuits and other greens a day?
Hong Kong is receiving two giant pandas, a gift from Beijing, but they will need time to adapt before Ocean Park visitors can see them.
06 Jul, 2024
[74]
Hong Kong weatherman, 74, turns to rap music to warn about wasteful fast fashion
Former Observatory director Lam Chiu-ying teams up with singer-songwriter Luna Lee for rap song with environmental message.
29 Jun, 2024
[75]
How easy is recycling in Hong Kong? The Post puts green lifestyle to the test
Reporter collects up all his recyclable waste for one week to figure out what it takes to stop plastics going straight into the bin.
22 Jun, 2024
[76]
Hong Kong’s Murray House exemplifies city’s empty stores, fitful retail recovery
Vacancies across Central, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok down from peak in third quarter of 2022, but worse than in 2019.
15 Jun, 2024
[77]
Xiaohongshu’s impact on travel: how the app is reshaping Hong Kong tourism
Chinese social media platform is blazing a trail for mandarin-speaking visitors to find hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path ideas.
08 Jun, 2024
[78]
How ‘2-dish-rice’ meals went from Hong Kong workers’ staple to culinary classic
Food culture academic says dining restrictions amid Covid-19 pandemic helped to normalise shops offering affordable choice of Cantonese favourites as an option for everyone.
01 Jun, 2024
[79]
Have Hong Kong taxi drivers slammed the brakes on bad behaviour amid Uber feud?
Post camps out at taxi ‘black spot’ and goes on undercover cab rides, finds no sign of drivers overcharging, refusing to take passengers or not using their meters.
25 May, 2024
[80]
Calls to end long queues to register for free dental treatment in Hong Kong
Elderly patients must return multiple times because dentists will extract only one tooth on each visit.
18 May, 2024
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