Light and Shadow Intertwined: A Retro Secret Spot at Hong Kong's Central MTR Station Exit C

Step through the bustling Exit C of Central MTR Station, and you'll find yourself at "Central Market," a building steeped in history and illuminated by light and shadow. Originally completed in 1939 as the fourth-generation market, this site has undergone revitalization, shedding its former bustling marketplace vibe to transform into a retro, artistic time capsule. Upon entering, your gaze is immediately drawn to the "Central Staircase," which spans three levels. The stone steps wind upward, and the weathered walls bear the marks of time. This very staircase served as a classic scene in the movie "Hidden Blade," where Tony Leung and Wang Yibo's tense confrontation unfolded. The cold, stark texture of the stairs combined with the dramatic tension creates an atmosphere that still seems to echo with the clandestine intrigue of espionage. Inside the market, 13 original stalls have been preserved, complete with iron gates, ceramic tiles, and vintage signage that evoke the charm of old Hong Kong. Every snapshot here feels like a nostalgic masterpiece. The revitalized space breathes new life into the market: creative shops tucked into corners, art markets scattered throughout, and the coexistence of coffee aromas and exhibition posters create a unique blend of old and new. For those who explore carefully, you might discover the iconic clock featured in "Hidden Blade," its hands frozen at a pivotal moment in the film. As night falls, warm yellow lights illuminate the market, transforming it into a maze of light and shadow, where every step feels like entering a secret world captured on film. This place is not just a filming location; it’s a dialogue between time—where the breath of history and the pulse of modernity quietly meet at the turn of the staircase.