Enlight youth hostel, part of the Runway 1331 project which aims to convert Hong Kong’s unused COVID-19 quarantine facility in Kai Tak into a youth-focused cultural hub, opened its doors on Sunday, with its initial 250 rooms starting at HK$200 ($25.48) per night.
The hostel will be rolled out in four phases, offering a total of 2,000 rooms ranging from 14.61 to 48.21 square meters. Rents for a single room will range between HK$3,000 and HK$6,000 a month.
The 250 rooms available in the first phase - divided into single, double and triple rooms that are all equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning and televisions – will be provided to group applicants only.
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Its operator said the criteria of applications will be published later, with priorities being given to people under 40 years old and working in arts, culture or sports.
The hostel’s full operation is scheduled for September.
Named after the former Kai Tak airport's historic runway 1331, the project has been developed by Glorise Tourism and Culture, a joint venture between China Tourism Group and entrepreneur Winnie Chiu Wing-kwan, who is also president of hotel chain Dorsett Hospitality International.
Operating under a five-year lease, Chiu expects the project to become “the world's largest youth incubator”.
Upon full development, the hostel will accommodate up to 5,000 people. At least 100 free accommodation spots will be reserved for talented applicants, subject to approval by professional organizations.
Beyond accommodation, the project also includes co-working spaces, performance venues, outdoor activity zones, drone performance areas, workshops, art festivals, and international exchange programs.
To address transportation concerns, Chiu said that that shuttle bus services between Runway 1331 and AIRSIDE, a multi-functional building near the MTR Kai Tak station, will be provided in partnership with China Travel Service, while existing nearby bus routes will see increased frequency.
Pet-friendly accommodation and female-only units are under consideration to enhance tenant flexibility, she said.
Chiu also revealed that the hostel will collaborate with foreign diplomat missions in the city to attract overseas youth groups.
The Hong Kong government has set a goal for Runway 1331 to host 60 youth-focused events in the coming five years.
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Hong Kong Breaking Association member Kan expressed interest in applying for space, after visiting the site on Sunday.
She explained that moving her association’s office into Runway 1331 would allow her to simultaneously promote breakdance culture and advance her community work.
With breakdancing now an official Olympic competition, having debuted at the Paris Olympics 2024, Kan sees the hostel as a potential hub to grow local interest, which is capable for hosting breaking performances and events. Financial support could help to transform the venue into an East Kowloon cultural landmark like the Avenue of Stars or Hong Kong Cultural Centre, she added.
Contact the writer at stacyshi@chinadailyhk.com
