News

The Hong Kong Story Exhibition finally reopens after nearly five years

Fresh layout, over 2,800 artefacts, and still completely free

Jenny Leung
Written by
Jenny Leung
Hong Kong Story
Photograph: info.gov.hk
Advertising

There’s so much history to our city, but how much do you really know? If you’ve ever wanted to fill in the gaps in your knowledge, the newly reopened exhibition at the Hong Kong Museum of History is the perfect place to start.

After nearly five years of renovation, ‘The Hong Kong Story’ permanent exhibition has fully reopened to the public starting April 1. Following the 2024 debut of the ‘Multifaceted Hong Kong’ series, this new exhibition now takes over the entire ground floor, gathering more than 2,800 artefacts with a fresh storytelling approach. And yes, it’s still free to enter and enjoy!

Hong Kong Story
Photograph: info.gov.hk

Expanded into 10 sections, the exhibition is organised into four main themes – ‘Roots of Culture’, ‘East Meets West’, ‘Coalition against Japanese Aggression’, and ‘Hong Kong as a Global Metropolis’ – inviting visitors to wander through different eras and recreated scenes without feeling like history class is in session. The journey goes from prehistoric settlements and early heritage to the city’s rise as a busy international hub. Along the way, visitors can walk into a recreated 1930s street with a classic double-decker tram and old shops like the Shing Chai Tong Chinese Medicine Store. There are archaeological finds, historical records, everyday objects from different eras, and even pieces from the 1970s tied to the Hong Kong Antenna and Engineering Company. New clay figurines inspired by classic local educational TV shows have also been added, while familiar favourites like the No. 50 tram remain, bringing a nostalgic touch to the immersive historical environments. 

Hong Kong Story
Photograph: info.gov.hk

Admission to ‘The Hong Kong Story’ is still completely free, with no tickets required. Free audio guides are also available in Cantonese, Putonghua, and English, while public guided tours will start from May 9. Whether you’re a local resident looking to reconnect with your roots or a curious traveller wanting to discover what lies beneath the city’s shiny surface, the Hong Kong Museum of History’s refreshed exhibition offers an eye-opening glimpse into the culture, stories, and people that have shaped Hong Kong. Visit the official museum page at hk.history.museum for more details.

Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox

Recommended stories:

Cathay Pacific named world’s second-best airline by AirlineRatings

Salisterra opens a new private dining experience with the Chef’s Room

Daniel Caesar is performing in Hong Kong this June – here’s how to get tickets

Latest news
    Advertising