Neon signs in Hong Kong

Neon signs in Hong Kong

Movable Cultural Heritage

The use of neon signs as an advertising method for shops increased post-war in the 1950s, alongside a boom in incoming migration and setting up of shops and stores. As business owners typically planned for their businesses to be passed on through generations, they were known to ‘invest a lot in getting a sign commissioned’ as it carried a lot of significance and identity. As the economy prospered in the later half of the 20th century, the signs became de rigueur in the urban cityscape – an icon in its own right, and inspiring many cultural references in movies and media. After the city’s handover to China in 1997, there have been tightening regulations on ‘unauthorized’ neon signs and enhanced safety regulations, with removal orders issued spiking in 2017-2021. As paperwork to appeal for authorization of the signs is complicated and upkeep of the signs get more expensive, more shopkeepers have elected to remove the signs in favor of switching to cheaper LED alternatives.

gnlw

is51102025

25 March 2025

gnlw1

English

Intangible

1237

24/02/2025

26/03/2025

current,22.302711,114.177216;

TEXT

Digital interpretation of Neon Signs as an intangible cultural heritage can address United Nations’ Sustainable Development (UN SDG) Goal 4 – Quality Education, especially Target 4.7 which aims to “ensure that all learners acquire...appreciation of cultural diversity”. If incorporated into tourism, the digital interpretation of the neon signs can address United Nations’ Sustainable Development (UN SDG) Goal 8 – Promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth – specifically Target 8.9 with the aim to “devise and implement policies to promote sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture and products”

true

2916