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Kowloon Walled City was perhaps one of the most unique areas in Hong Kong at the time. It wasn't luxurious, opulent, or filled with dazzling lights; instead, it was known as a crowded, chaotic place with diverse social classes during the 1950s-1990s.
Many photographers documented life inside the Kowloon Walled City. Most notable are the images captured by Canadian photographer Greg Girard and British photographer Ian Lambot.
Kowloon Walled City, also known as Kowloon Walled City, was once an independent area located in the north of Hong Kong Island.
From a military fortress, Kowloon Walled City developed into a "mini-city" with 50,000 residents and 300 interconnected high-rise buildings.
Before its demolition in 1994, Kowloon Walled City was a completely different world from the rest of Hong Kong. It boasted an incredibly high population density, a bustling and chaotic atmosphere, and a host of contradictions: narrow, dark streets; many people living in damp, dilapidated apartments lacking sunlight; and a notorious reputation for social ills.
Typically, a space like a grocery store also doubles as a living room or a space for children to do their homework.
Known as the "City of Darkness," Kowloon Walled City was a largely unregulated, Chinese-occupied area in Hong Kong. With its unique structure, Kowloon Walled City comprised over 300 interconnected buildings. Before its demolition in 1994, it was home to 50,000 people and was considered the most densely populated area on Earth, surpassing major cities like New York (USA) and New Delhi (India).
Kowloon Walled City was considered a "paradise" for outlaws and a "hell" for the impoverished. However, despite the hardships and challenges, the people there always maintained a strong spirit and optimism.
According to photographer Girard, the lower levels of Kowloon Walled City were always hot and humid, surrounded by numerous electrical wires.
By 1987, the area had become relatively normal, although it was still considered dangerous by outsiders.
The streets and alleys of Kowloon Walled City were very narrow. Most were only a little over 1 meter wide, and some alleys were so narrow that you had to lean sideways to pass through.
In 1994, the Hong Kong government decided to demolish Kowloon Walled City to build new housing. The relocation of residents took many years and faced many difficulties, but eventually, the walled city was completely razed to the ground.
Today, Kowloon Walled City exists only in the memories of those who once lived and worked there. Girard and Lambot's photographs play a crucial role in preserving the historical and cultural values of this unique area.
Kowloon Walled City, a crowded and chaotic area with 300 interconnected buildings.
The only regulation enforced in Kowloon is the height of buildings. Because the airport is so close, buildings are not allowed to be taller than 13 or 14 stories.
Ho Chi Kam owned a barbershop in the Fortress until 1991.
A cramped apartment on the third floor
This rubber factory was run entirely by two men.
Convenience store with accommodation
Between 1950 and 1970, this area was also known as a hub for notorious gang activity.
The majority of rent is controlled by those who hold "land ownership rights".
Kowloon Walled City is not a place to wander freely, especially at night.
