Bob Coffey
Wan Chai is a commercial area full of activity. This area accommodates many Hong Kong companies, in addition to office towers, parks and hotels. In the much hustle and bustle of this area, you will find so much to keep yourself busy.
This is the main recreation place in Wan Chai. Long time ago, it was simply a night market. The playground is named after the then Colonial Secretary of Hong Kong Government Sir Wilfrid Thomas Southorn. The play area is not quite big, but could be used for normal functions such as sports matches.
The labourers would reach the playground in the morning before starting their busy days. They would offer cheap-rated Chinese herbal massages to get rid of physical ailments. For the working class, a professional massage is beyond affordability. As evening falls slowly, people gather here to enjoy Chinese performances. Southorn playground, in essence, is a place used for work as well as entertainment.
Hip-hop dance includes various styles such as breaking locking. This is primarily a street dance style stemmed from hip-hop culture. This dance style was made popular by American dance groups. Hip-hop dance is also shown in various television programmes such as 'Soul Train'. The dance style turned out to be largely commercialised towards 2000s with several television programmes and films coming up.
Hip-hop is quite popular in Wan Chai neighbourhood. It is mainly known for its free style. This freestyle is often known as battles among the Wan Chai residents. In essence, this could be some way to be active and quite recreational.
Kung fu is a unique type of Chinese martial arts, which evolved over centuries in China. Also known as gung fu and wushu, this involves various fighting types. The types are known as families, sects or schools. Kung fu is in fact is a rigorous physical exercises. The Chinese philosophy and religious teachings influenced this activity.
In the initial stages, Kung fu was used as self defence with its hunting techniques and military discipline. It was compulsory for the Chinese soldiers to practise hand-to-hand combat and weaponry.
This Wan Chai Hotel Hong Kong offers a number of recreational activities: fitness centre, gymnasium, squash court, badminton court and a multi-purpose hall. Facilities are also available for badminton, basketball, table tennis, volleyball and boxing. Step out of the hotel, and it will be a matter of 10 minutes to walk towards Morrison Hill Public Swimming Pool.
Football is a well-provided for sport in China. In China you have Association Football and China National Football Team dedicated to the sport. The sport was established in early stages of the 20th century. Football's earliest form in China is called Cuju. In Cuju too, a ball has to be kicked towards a net. In early episodes of Chinese history, this had been played for military purposes. Cuju later developed in Korea, Japan and Vietnam as well. Hands are not allowed in this ancient Chinese game.
Wan Chai's Chess club is a good opportunity to make friends. The senior coaches will also teach you important chess strategies. It will be one lifetime chance.
