For many years,Hong Kongwas dismissed as a cultural desert.

It took nearly 30 years, but theWest Kowloon Cultural Districthas finally taken shape.

The area is only one-third to one-half complete.

Aerial view of the Hong Kong skyline.

West Kowloon Cultural District.Credit:Courtesy of West Kowloon Cultural District Authority

Here, a guide to whats new.

Freespace

As the name suggests,this performing arts centeris designed to be flexible and imaginative.

The facilities are spotless, too.

A group gathered at an outdoor concert in Hong Kong.

Freespace Jazz Fest 2023.Courtesy of West Kowloon Cultural District Authority

A large opening fills the atrium with breezes and natural light.

An 18th century pitcher at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

Ewer, Mughal Empire,18th century Jade (nephrite), gold, lapzi lazuli, and rubies at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.Courtesy of Hong Kong Palace Museum

Sushi Bar art installation at M+ in Hong Kong.

Installation view of Kiyotomo sushi bar.Lok Cheng/Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

A pair of photos one showing a Chinese opera and the other Art Park in Hong Kong.

From left: Xiqu Centre Fifth Anniversary Celebrations Tea House Theatre Experience-Muk Kwai-ying Proposes Marriage; Art Park.Courtesy of West Kowloon Cultural District Authority