But this is an actual living space (in an old bldg) for up to 3 people.

That upper-bunk area would typically be another 'caged' area like the lower bunk.

Adding me for perspective on the room size. I know I'm larger than a typical Hongkonger, but really.

Our tour guide provided very disturbing insights into this form of life . . .

Once you recognize the contrasts, you see them more clearly everywhere you look.

Rooftop residences are 'protected' with corrugated steel. They're illegal, but no one enforces it.

This is the 'Night Market' area. Thought we'd take a look en route to our hotel.

City of Stark Contrasts

October 20, 2025 in Hong Kong ⋅ ☁️ 82 °F

We weren't sure what to expect when we signed up for this tour. It was called 'Dark Side of Hong Kong - the Caged Homes of Kowloon'. What an eye-opener: we were exposed to the conditions that underpin Hong Kong's housing crisis. They're called 'caged homes' b/c people sleep in & store their limited personal items in a cage surrounding the bed. (Oftentimes the people in a room are not all of the same family.) This is the life for thousands of Hongkongers.
It's staggering how many people live in these conditions and how very difficult it is to rise above them.Read more