The Forgotten Paradise —
Bird Street
Written by Eric Wong
In view of the rapid growth of Hong Kong, lots of culture and building have been changed, including Bird Street. There were dozens of bird enthusiasts many years ago. However, the culture of feeding birds is no longer popular in recent years. The amount of bird shops in Hong Kong rapidly decreased, so Bird Street is now the only place gathering a few of bird lovers.
— History —
In 1960s, it was originally located in Hong Lok Street, Mongkok but now in Yuen Po Street after the urban renewal since March, 1997. The Government invested nearly 30 million to build the 3000-square-meter Bird Street.
Although the H5N1 was found in Bird Street few years ago, which is a disastrous setback for the street, nowadays it becomes a famous location attracting lots of tourists and bird lovers as there are 70 bird shops.
Bird Street is a place in which gathers many bird lovers. However, it seems that there were lots of people but teenagers. Some shop owners said bird-selling business would disappear very soon.
When entering to the Bird Street, your eyes might be glued by the Chinese-style entrance. Passing over the entrance, following the sounds of bird, you may find it was a different world from Mongkok – quiet, peaceful and ancient. It should be named “Bird paradise” rather than “Bird Street”.
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— The Bird Shop‘s Storyteller —
“Many years ago, there were so many people buying birds. I still remember some would treat birds as a gift, while some would treat them as their son.” A bird shop owner, Kwong-choi Lee said. “Most of the customers are the middle-aged and the elderly. I seldom see young ladies or gentlemen buying birds nowadays.” In Bird Street, you could find some old men carrying coops of birds, sitting outside the bird shops.
Lee’s bird shop opened since 1970s. He inherited his father’s business for many years, yet, his son who immigrated overseas was not interested in bird-feeding. “I’m the last inheritor.” Lee said.
Kwok-tong Chan, a bird lover, visits to Bird Street every day. He witnessed the changing of Bird Street. “It was very crowded and full of passion, which people shared their experience of bird feeding. We used to be friends because of bird. It was a really warm place.” Chan mentioned. In fact, he used to carry his bird wherever he goes. He treats bird as his son.
Apart from bird, Bird Street is built by friendship between people. “You can’t find many new buddies anymore. Bird Street is outdated.” Chan looked at his coop, the bird song alone.
Leaving from Bird Street, going back to the city, the sounds of birds disappeared, cars’ honk instead. Everything looks new but strange. City develops so fast, but we should not forget the history and culture of our home.
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— Photo Series —
— Maps —
— End —
