Published: 16:57, August 4, 2026
Reimagining HK and Shanghai's everyday heritage
By Wang Zhan in Hong Kong
Visitors explore immersive architectural installations featuring Hong Kong’s iconic tong lau (tenement buildings) and Shanghai’s traditional shikumen on the opening day of the HKIA Arts and Culture Festival 2026 at Hong Kong International Airport on Aug 4, 2026. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

Visitors and travelers gain a four-month time window to get an initial taste of Hong Kong and Shanghai's vibrant urban cultures at the Hong Kong International Airport, as the HKIA Arts and Culture Festival 2026 opened on Tuesday.   

Running through Nov 8, 2026, under the theme "Hong Kong & Shanghai: A Tale of Two Cities," the joint showcase is being held simultaneously across Terminal 1 and the arrival hall of the new Terminal 2 at HKIA, as well as Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport. 

Conceived with reference to the creative vision of architect Gary Chang, founder of EDGE Design Institute Ltd, the project reimagines everyday heritage through a stylized streetscape of covered walkways and courtyards, offering travelers a vibrant cultural first impression and a journey through the layered urban memories of both gateway cities. 

Airport Authority Hong Kong Chief Executive Officer Vivian Cheung Kar-fai noted that the event highlights the enduring ties and deepening cooperation between the two metropolises.

China Daily's Andy Chong took the photos.