Hong Kong Stories

The Unique Streetscape Around The Corner (33x2)

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Hong Kong is a mixture of old and new. One of the local cultures that can symbolize the ‘can-do’ spirit of Hong Kong is under-stair shops. They popped up in the 1950s, became a unique part of Hong Kong streetscape. This episode is featuring two under-stair shops; both are witnessing the change of history and linking a family. Ng Sup, a 85-year-old watch-repairer, has run an under-stair shop in Kowloon City for over 5o years. John, his son learnt the watch-repairing skill in this small shop beneath the staircase, he later went to Switzerland studying watch-making. John has become a watch-maker and has a successful career while Ng Sup feels like staying in his small shop. At the other side of the city, Lee Sau-sing is the owner of a 70 sq ft under-stair watch shop. He returned to his family-run small business reluctantly in 1993. His dad died within one year after his return. Several years later, Lee Sau-sing finally understood his father’s wish. Recently, both under-stair shops receive the notice that they have to move. Will this distinctive part of street culture disappear eventually?