PMQ

Central’s hub for everything artistic and creative, PMQ is home to more than 100 local creators, designers, artists, and entrepreneurs.

This historic building on Aberdeen Street has a long and varied history. It was built in the 1880s as a primary and secondary school, and later, in 1951, it became a dormitory of the ‘Police Married Quarters’, which is where the name PMQ comes from.

In 2009, instead of being bulldozed for a high-rise—which happens all too easily in Hong Kong—it was chosen for revitalisation, with the police officers’ quarters redesigned into artists studios, shops, and cafes, ushering in a much-needed creative space in the heart of Central.

Located close to the Mid-Levels Escalator, it is worth taking the time to peruse PMQ, where you’ll find handmade items, shoes and bags, trendy accessories and jewellery, lifestyle goods, sculptures in the making, paintings in progress, and more.

While exploring, be sure to look for the 20 amazingly painted flights of stairs found all around PMQ, painted by 11 different artists.

PMQ is also a great place to have a bite to eat, with a wide range of beautifully designed restaurants and cafes. Try traditional Chinese tea at Gong Fu Teahouse, or enjoy a cup of coffee and some treats at the eclectic Garden Meow. You can also take part in sake tasting at Sake Central, and try your hand at cooking at ABC Cooking Studio.

PMQ’s open spaces and Central location make it a popular venue for major events, ranging from art expos, displays and exhibitions, pop-up shops, live music and performances, and workshops where you can try your hand at making something unique.

To welcome overseas tourists, PMQ is now offering a Tourist Privilege Programme, full of discounts, coupons, and gift rewards for shopping and eating at PMQ. Walk with your passport to the PMQ Info Centre to pick up yours!

Note: The building is accessible, but PMQ is in a very hilly part of town.