Nam Shan

Tucked away in Shek Kip Mei, the Nam Shan Estate whispers stories of Hong Kong’s past. Nam Shan Estate isn’t just concrete and steel. It’s a living tapestry woven with the lives of its residents. Built in 1977, Nam Shan Estate originally housed those displaced by the Tai Hang Tung Estate redevelopment after a devastating fire. The estate quickly became a vibrant community. Eight residential blocks sprung up, each bearing a unique name like Nam Fung House and Nam On House. The Nam Shan Estate isn’t just a place to live. It’s a microcosm of Hong Kong itself, a blend of old and new. Traditional ice cream vendors still roam the estate, their carts a nostalgic reminder of simpler times. At night, hawkers gather, their food carts sizzling with the aromas of local delicacies like egg waffles and curry sauce squid. The Nam Shan Estate even has a nickname: “City University’s canteen”. Its proximity to the City University of Hong Kong has made it a popular dining spot for students. The abundance of snack stores and affordable stationery shops further cemented this moniker. In 2012, the university even rented part of Nam Shan Estate’s parking lot, transforming the top floors into classrooms. The bottom floors continued to serve as parking, a testament to the estate’s adaptability. Despite the changes, Nam Shan Estate retains its unique charm. The wet market, with its faded signage and packed stalls, offers a glimpse into old Hong Kong. A giant tree, rumored to be older than the estate itself, stands as a silent witness to the passing years. Nam Shan Estate isn’t a typical tourist destination. It’s a place to experience the real Hong Kong, a place where history and community intertwine.