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In case you missed Takashi Murakami's whimsical cherry blossom oasis at ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025, Ohana Hatake has made its official debut in the city at Pacific Place in Admiralty.
Step into the retail destination this August and you’ll find its Garden Court transformed into a mesmerizing dreamscape that’s blooming with imagination. From July 31 to August 13, the mall’s latest campaign, Summer in Full Bloom, brings Japanese artist Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake to Hong Kong for its official launch, in a pop-up that’s part art installation, part retail experience, and all sensory delight.
Presented in collaboration with Complex Chinese, the event marks Murakami’s footwear brand’s debut in the city, coinciding with Pacific Place’s role as the official mall partner of ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025.
At the heart of it all is a surreal floral dreamscape, showcasing a large-scale hanging cherry blossom centerpiece surrounded by blooming trees and vibrant florals, all echoing Murakami’s signature Superflat aesthetic. The result is a space that feels more like a garden in motion than a shopping mall.
Inside the installation, visitors can browse exclusive Ohana Hatake merchandise, including two footwear styles in twelve colorways, with four new shades released in phases over the two-week run. The pop-up also offers an incentive: spend HK$800or HK$1,500 in same-day electronic purchases at Pacific Place or Starstreet Precinct to redeem a specially brewed Ohana Hatake coffee or limited-edition tote bag, respectively. Redemptions are available daily while supplies last.
Beyond the retail and rewards, the installation invites guests to linger, explore, and engage with Murakami’s world, where nature meets pop art, and summer feels like a canvas. With opening hours from 11am to 8pm, it’s a perfect midday escape or post-work wander.
Whether you’re chasing cherry blossoms or just looking for a fresh way to experience the city, Summer in Full Bloom offers a rare chance to see Pacific Place through a more whimsical lens.
For more information, visit the Pacific Place website here, and follow the Instagram page here.
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Global pop group Now United has officially found its newest member in Hong Kong!
Ariel Tsang, the newest member of Now United, made her debut performance with the group at a media unveiling held on August 28, 2025, at Tai Kwun. This marks the end of a months-long search to find the group’s missing piece, consisting of auditions, Hollywood-level training, and intensive bootcamps powered by the partnership of the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) and international brand XIX Entertainment.
Meet Ariel Tsang, Now United’s First Member from Hong Kong
Born in Hong Kong, Ariel Tsang brings extensive stage experience as a homegrown singer, rapper, and dancer, and has gained attention for her musical talent and youthful energy.
She speaks Cantonese, English, and Putonghua, allowing her to collaborate well with the Now United group members and connect with audiences around the world. She provides a bridge that connects Hong Kong’s new generation of talent to the global stage.
Hong Kong Jockey Club and XIX Entertainment’s Partnership
Dennis Hau, Executive Director, Customer Strategy, Insights, and Innovation of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, said that the partnership between the two aligns with the HKJC’s vision to become a global sports entertainment brand. “This collaboration will deliver attractive world-class racing and entertainment experiences,” he shared. “The Club has long been committed to youth and talent development, and this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity provides young local talent with world-class training.”
Superstar Aaron Kwok also attended the media unveiling as HKJC’s “Rising Star Ambassador.” He is a well-known proponent of encouraging performers and artists to shine on the stage, keeping with the Club’s commitment to youth and talent development.
XIX Founder Simon Fuller also praised the Club’s innovative vision of combining world-class sports and entertainment, noting how Now United complements the dynamic energy of Hong Kong perfectly, and how Ariel reflects the city’s optimism and resilience to show on the world stage.
This collaboration between HKJC and XIX also features Masterclass workshops from industry-leading professionals at XIX Entertainment’s Academy of Pop, featuring world-class dancer and choreographer Nicky Andersen and renowned vocal coach Berkley The Artist as some of their tutors.
The members of Now United are set to film a YouTube reality series and music videos, sharing positive stories about Hong Kong and Hong Kong racing with their fans worldwide across multiple platforms.
Now United is also set to embark on a world tour in November, featuring stops in Portugal and Brazil, before returning to Hong Kong in December for the Club’s racecourses and at the LONGINES Hong Kong International Races.
For updates on Now United’s activities in Hong Kong and to learn more about the Club’s initiatives, follow the Hong Kong Jockey Club on Instagram and Now United on Instagram and Facebook.
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FE!IN, FE!N, FE!N, FE!IN, FE!N! Global rap icon Travis Scott is set to ignite Macau with his Circus Maximus Tour on October 29, marking one of the most anticipated stops on his Asia circuit. While his high-energy shows will take cities like Delhi, Seoul, Tokyo, and Mumbai by storm, this one-night-only performance at the Macau Outdoor Performance Venue promises an electrifying experience for fans across the region.
The tour, officially titled Utopia Presents: Circus Maximus, supports Scott’s critically acclaimed fourth studio album, Utopia, which debuted to massive fanfare and commercial success. Known for its genre-bending production and cinematic soundscapes, Utopia has redefined the boundaries of modern hip-hop. Audiences in Macau can expect a setlist packed with hits like “FE!N,” “HYAENA,” and “MODERN JAM,” alongside fan favorites from JackBoys 2, Astroworld, and Rodeo.
Scott’s live shows are legendary for their high-octane energy, surreal visuals, and immersive stage design. The Macau performance is expected to deliver all that and more, with state-of-the-art production and a crowd of thousands ready to rage. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer drawn in by Utopia’s sonic allure, this is a concert experience not to be missed.
Tickets go on public sale September 5 at 12 PM, with multiple tiers available to suit every fan’s vibe. From the ultra-exclusive SKYDECK VVIP package (HK$7,599), which includes premium stage access, exclusive merchandise, and butler service, to more accessible standing options like CAT3 (HK$459), there’s something for everyone. Local fans can purchase via Macau Pass or Damai, while international attendees can book through Cityline.
With Macau just a short ferry ride from Hong Kong and a cultural hotspot in its own right, this concert doubles as the perfect excuse for a weekend getaway. Travis Scott’s Circus Maximus tour is going to be a full-blown spectacle, get ready to step into the world of Utopia.
Check out Travis Scott’s Instagram for more information and Spotify for his songs to hype up yourself.
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There’s something about Clockenflap that lingers long after the music fades. Maybe it’s the memory of dancing with the loved ones, or it’s how the passionate strangers reinterpreted a festival experience. For years, Hong Kong’s premier music and arts festival has been the place where indie meets mainstream, where global sounds collide under Hong Kong’s skyline, and where strangers become friends over beats, drinks, and food.
Now, with the second wave of its 2025 lineup officially released, Clockenflap is turning up the volume, and the anticipation. The newly announced artists add even more depth, diversity, and surprise to an already stacked roster, promising a weekend, from December 5–7, 2025, that’s not just unforgettable, but unrepeatable, promising another genre-blurring, culture-crossing celebration of sound, dance, and culture.
Among the newly announced artists on the festival’s opening night, Japanese chart-topper Vaundy leads the charge with his first-ever public performance outside Japan, an exclusive appearance that will make waves across Asia.
Joining him on Friday are art-pop legends Sparks, performing in Hong Kong for the first time, and local shoegaze band Chung’s Astrology, who will pay tribute to late indie hero Kwan King-chung with a deeply personal set. DJ duo Johnny Takigero and Pesky Azabu Punks will also perform on Friday, bringing Tokyo’s underground pulse to the harborfront.
Saturday’s additions include French nu-disco band L’Impératrice, whose shimmering synths and retro grooves are tailor-made for Hong Kong’s skyline. UK techno pioneer Dave Clarke and Belgian electronic provocateur Bolis Pupul add edge to the night, while Japanese duo Rikon Densetsu (離婚伝説) and Taiwanese funk bandRobot Swing round out the eclectic mix.
Sunday’s lineup expands with American singer-songwriter Jeremy Zucker, known for his introspective pop anthems, and Japanese rock veterans ELLEGARDEN, returning to Hong Kong after years of cult acclaim. Rising Polish guitar virtuoso Marcin, Singaporean synth-pop artist Yeule, and Estonian nu-folk duo Puuluup bring global flair to the final day, alongside UK dubstep DJ RSD, DJ/producer Special Request, and Taiwanese indie voice Andr.
Having long been more than a music festival, Clockenflap is a cultural ritual. Since its founding in 2008, it’s grown into Asia’s premier outdoor music event, known for its open-minded spirit, waterfront views, and immersive art installations. Past editions have featured surprise collaborations, spontaneous dance circles, and abundance of joy.
Tickets are available now via Ticketflap. General admission for all three days is HK$1,990, with single-day passes at HK$1,280. Youth tickets (under 18) are discounted, and children under three enter free. For international travelers, Japan Airlines is offering exclusive travel packages to make the journey seamless via this website.
Whether you’re chasing the discovery of sound, cultural connection, or just a weekend of pure joy, Clockenflap 2025 is shaping up to be unforgettable. With its final lineup locked in, all that’s left is to grab your ticket and maybe start gathering your outfit inspirations.
Clockenflap 2025 Central Harbourfront Event Space Fri, December 5 6:00 PM
onwards
Catch Rich Brian, Jacob Collier, Franz Ferdinand, and more at Clockenflap 2025, returning on Dec. 5-7, 2025, to Central Harbourfront. Grab your Early Bird tickets now!
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If you’ve scrolled through social media lately, you may have stumbled upon the charming sight of a young woman, watercolor brush in hand, capturing the soul of a dish before ever taking a bite. Between bustling café tables and candlelit bistros, Anna Ka wai Kwan is transforming plates into painted keepsakes — each stroke a love letter to flavor and form.
Hong Kong–born and now a familiar face in New York’s vibrant dining scene, Anna has always been a passionate artist who has recently begun her journey in food content creation, blending her two passions into a signature style that’s as appetizing as it is impressive.
The Beat Asia caught up with the artist to talk about her beginnings, her foray into live painting, love for food and art, and how those two combined make up her colorful and vibrant world.
Anna has always been a gifted artist — a passion that was founded, unsurprisingly, at the dinner table.
“I always tell people it's such a full circle moment. My mom told me that I started picking up a coloring pencil, probably a few months in, when she brought me to restaurants,” she shared. “Ever since I was little, I have always drawn at restaurants and during meal times. I’d always hold on to crayons that she gave me and just scribble and stuff.”
As she grew older, her hobby of scribbling and coloring morphed into a full-blown passion. She started focusing on acrylic painting, which is the primary medium she likes to use. She was also introduced to Chinese watercolor painting later on, a medium she uses mostly for her food content. Anna was also an art scholar in high school and even had an exhibition at the Hong Kong Public Library when she was fourteen years old. She eventually moved to New York where she pursued a Fine Arts degree at the Parsons School of Design.
Known mostly for her live painting escapades in cafes and bistros in the city, Anna dipped her toes into content creation only last year when she started doing live portrait painting as a way of exploring what she wanted to do after graduation.
“I was always good at painting and drawing really fast,” she told The Beat Asia. “So I just set up an easel in Washington Square Park and just did that one day. People came up to me and bought the paintings and it was like a 10-minute portrait painting, but with acrylic paint! So, people were like, 'what?' It was new compared to just sketching on a piece of paper.”
Beyond her skills, Anna also shared that a reason she decided to start with live portrait painting was to share more about the process of creating a piece, which she believes creates meaningful connections with people and sparks interest in the art form.
“Everyone kind of views art as something you create at home or in a very secluded area. But I feel like with live painting, when people see the process, they feel a little bit more inclined to start as well. It’s kind of intimidating as a person who doesn't do art to only see the final piece, not realizing how many steps or how many ‘trust the process’ moments actually happen throughout the painting process. It just doesn't go from blank page to a final piece. I think that's one of the beauties about it. People can see it. People can feel more comfortable talking to an artist about it. I have so many who come up to me and start a conversation and say that they just see me enjoying the moment and they want to be into that too. I think it’s really beautiful.”
Today, Anna’s live painting and previous food content work have evolved into a distinct niche: painting at restaurants. The artist told us about how she only began recording herself in September 2024 while on a trip to one of her favorite bakeries in the West Village called Claude, with the encouragement of her best friend, who went with her. Armed with her portable watercolor palette, a medium she was re-familiarizing herself with at that time after focusing on acrylic for a while, and with the help of her friend in recording, she created her first live food painting.
“It was just us tasting the pastries and me painting. It felt awkward at first but when I rewatched the video, it was so soothing. I loved watching it. So, I edited the video and added a little voiceover where I talked about my mom wanting to open a bakery when she was little and posted it.”
“The video didn't do amazing, but I didn't really care at that point. I was just amazed at how the video encapsulated me as a person and as a creative. I was doing a lot of food content at that time. I love like cooking, I love making food, and I love the community aspect of food. I also loved editing, doing social media, and talking. So, in the moment, I felt like this kind of video encapsulated me as a whole. It was authentically me.”
Anna continued to create and post her live food painting escapades for fun, until she posted one from her Paris trip which blew up. People started genuinely liking her post, and she eventually earned a solid following—around 157k on Instagram as of writing. She also shared how she views food as a portrait, every dish having its own personality, even fashion and culture behind it.
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“Food is such an art form and it's not appreciated enough. You kind of just see it, maybe take a photo, but a photo lasts two seconds and then you eat it and you forget about it. Where it's like when you're painting, you kind of look at the food more; you look at all the details and the colors and the composition. It’s kind of like a flavor for the eyes.”
But more than followers and likes, it’s her art and how she expresses herself through it that shines through her page. In each painting that she creates, a lot of elements come into play—from the lighting, sound, and overall atmosphere and vibe of the place. All of those things are incorporated into her work, creating something truly unique and impressive. She puts in a lot of research into the food places she visits, often looking up the destination, reading through reviews on Reddit, and asking locals to make sure that she’s featuring something she would personally recommend.
Anna also adores fashion and can be seen matching her outfits to the vibe of the restaurants she’s dining in, which adds to the performance factor, all without compromising authenticity.
When asked about her typical setup, Anna shared her top painting essentials, which include her sketchbook, iPad mini, a painting pouch that has her Van Gogh palette, and a waterbrush; her Micron pen, which is waterproof when it dries, perfect for outlining her drawings; a mechanical pencil, and a kneadable eraser, which was recommended by her followers. Since she records herself, she also brings a small tripod for her phone and manually adjusts the angles for her reels.
As part of her process, she talks to the restaurant's owners or staff before doing a painting session and always makes sure she visits during off hours when it isn’t too busy. When asked about some of her favorite moments while filming, she mentioned an interaction she had at a café in Paris when a waiter had come over and admired her work and proceeded to showcase it to all the other staff. But the memorable part about it was how, on her next visit six months later, the waiter had recognized her.
“I painted their hot chocolate and then I went again to paint their macarons. They didn't know I was going but I sat down, I painted, and then the guy was like, I remember you! He brought over some snacks for me, which was really sweet. It was really great to be remembered.”
Having been born and raised in Hong Kong and now living in the Western side of the world, Anna is exposed to a lot of different cultures and flavors.
When asked how it has influenced her art, she replied, “I was fortunate enough to be born and raised in Hong Kong. I moved here only four years ago and then I just built my life here by myself. Back in Hong Kong, I went to an International School, so I was very immersed in a lot of different cultures, which was great. Hong Kong's food scene is so diverse and so rich. It's phenomenal! You can literally have any type of cuisine in one building.”
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“And then in New York, I get here and it's the same thing, but the cultures are a little bit different. The diversity is still there, but I think the communities that dominate New York City are a bit different. It's a lot more interesting because Hong Kong is more British-oriented and more European-esque compared to America. So it reallyshaped me as a creative to be immersed in such diverse cultures; to be able to just hone that into my practice and be super open-minded with both food and how I paint. People say that my style is unique in a way that they can't really pin a style to it. It's not Japanese-looking, but it does have some French influences, but it's not 100% that either. I feel like that also encapsulates me as a person.”
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During our conversation we also touched on balancing creating for herself versus creating for an audience and the artist had been candid that she’s still learning to balance everything.
“I'm so grateful to be able to do what I do. I'm still learning how to balance it because I do go through burnout sometimes. But one thing that's helpful for me is to always have a personal project. It's nice to not have to video myself. Sometimes I just want to paint and not stare at my phone. So I think just having something for yourself is so important.”
Anna’s painting escapades and travels also led her to meet other fascinating personalities including Japanese contemporary artist and icon Takashi Murakami who even drew a Shrimp cocktail with her at a dinner she attended.
“I want to get to a point in my career and in my life where I also have that similar community and support of people who appreciate my art and appreciate me as an artist as well,” she said about meeting the legendary artist. “And the way that he did it was so fast and natural. I just found that really inspiring. You can tell that he really loves what he does.”
As for what her advice would be for up-and-comingartists or those hoping to pursue a similar creative path, she said to “take the leap and keep going” despite how terrifying it could be.
“Being nervous is a good thing, because that means that you actually care enough to be nervous. If you’re not afraid to fail, then I don't think it matters that much to you, and you need it to matter that much to you. Every day I get really nervous and that means I'm just so passionate about it. You just have to trust yourself and your intuition. Don't use nervousness or being scared as a way to back out but use it as a way to power through.”
Anna is returning to Paris soon and will stay there for a while to pursue what she calls her “European arc.” She shared her desire to explore more cities there, get in touch with the food scene, and hopefully work with big names like the Michelin guide. She also mentioned how she plans to publish a coffee table book, and explore the world more, especially the culinary scene in Asia.
You can view some of Anna’s art prints for sale on her website or follow her creative journey on Instagram and TikTok.
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Artist Spotlight profiles here.
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Underground rave culture has always been more than just music. It’s a movement built on freedom, connection, andsound. Born from warehouse parties and DJ collectives, it thrives in spaces where people gather not for status, but for the shared experience of rhythm and release. In 2025, Hong Kong’s underground scene is alive and evolving, driven by a growing appetite for alternative genres, inclusive dancefloors, and community-led energy.
At the heart of this culture is the PLUR ethos — Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. First coined by New York DJ Frankie Bones in the early ’90s, PLUR soon became a guiding philosophy for ravers worldwide. It’s what separates underground spaces from commercial nightlife: no velvet ropes, no bottle service, just dancers who look out for each other, DJs who play for the vibe, not the algorithm, and venues that prioritize sonic exploration over spectacle.
While raves are often thought of as one-off, nomadic events, undergroundclubs are their more permanent counterparts, spaces that carry the same spirit night after night. These clubs typically feature genres like techno, drum & bass, hardcore, footwork, and experimental electronic — sounds that challenge the mainstream and invite immersion. They’re often raw, intimate, and tucked into basements, lofts, or repurposed industrial corners. But in a city like Hong Kong, where space is scarce and rents are high, some venues blur the lines, offering underground experiences within more polished or curated environments.
Read on for both the core venues that anchor Hong Kong’s underground rave scene and the bridges — spaces that may not be underground by structure, but host events and collectives that embody the culture’s values. Whether you’re chasing basslines or community, here’s where to plug in.
A loft-stylevenue above Stanley Street, Social Room is one of Hong Kong’s most consistent homes for underground electronic music. With a semi-industrial vibe and a dedicated dancefloor, it regularly hosts weekend parties featuring genres like drum & bass, garage, techno, and experimental bass. It’s a reliable spot for those seeking raw sound and community-driven energy.
Location: Social Room, 3/F, Won Hing Building, 74-78 Stanley St, Central
宀 Club
Hidden in Sheung Wan, 宀Club is a minimalist, no-photo venue built around deep listening and sonic immersion. With a Funktion-One sound system and a capacity of around 100, it offers a focused environment for techno and ambient sets. While not open every night, their programming is intentional and curated, with each event designed to reflect the club’s commitment to underground culture.
Location:宀 Club,4F, 279-281 Des Voeux Rd Central, Sheung Wan
OMA
Tucked underneath Wyndham Street just off of Pottinger, OMA is a long-standing fixture in Hong Kong’s underground scene. Known for its late-night sessions and genre-spanning sets with techno, acid, bass, and breakbeats, it operates primarily on weekends. The club’s intimate layout makes it a go-to for purists and night owls.
Location: Oma Hong Kong, LB/F, Harilela House, No. 79 Wyndham Street, Central
SLAP (拍)
A two-room venue in Mong Kok, SLAP (拍) is a rising force in the city’s underground circuit. While its programming varies week to week, it frequently hosts genre-fluid events featuring techno, drum & bass, footwork, and more. SLAP is especially known for spotlighting emerging artists and collectives pushing sonic boundaries.
Location: Slap, 2/F, Spark City, 25 Tong Mi Rd, Mong Kok
Bamboo
Located in Central, Bamboo is a newer underground venue with a raw aesthetic and immersive lighting. It doesn’t host events nightly, but when it does, expect genres like deep techno, house, and experimental sets in a tightly curated environment. Bamboo has quickly earned a reputation for delivering high-impact underground experiences.
A multi-concept venue in Central, The Trilogy includes Keyz (its clubbing section), Ella (the speakeasy), and Wav (a rooftop bar). While not a dedicated underground venue, Keyz occasionally hosts events that lean into house, techno, and alternative electronic styles. It’s a polished space that occasionally channels subcultural energy.
Location: The Trilogy, 26/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger St, Central
Soho House
A members-only club in Sheung Wan, Soho House isn’t underground by design but it has hosted events featuring underground DJs and collectives. These are occasional and curated, often tied to cultural programming or special collaborations. It’s a platform where underground sounds meet a design-forward crowd.
Location: Soho House, 33 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan
Inside Eaton HK, the hotel's bar Terrible Baby blends cocktails, art, and music. Its Music Room occasionally hosts experimental DJ nights and inclusive events like Queertopia. While not a club in the traditional sense, it’s a cultural playground where underground energy surfaces through curated programming.
On top of nightlife, these eight venues are gateways to sonic discovery. From rising local selectors to international DJs passing through on low-key tours, Hong Kong’s underground spaces are where new sounds break and subcultures connect.
Some nights might feel like a secret shared among a hundred dancers. Others might surprise you with a world-class artist playing an intimate set far from the festival circuit. That’s the beauty of the underground for it’s unpredictable, unfiltered, and always evolving. If you’re looking to experience the pulse of the city beyond the mainstream, these are the places to start.
The Crews Behind the Sound: Hong Kong’s Underground DJ Collectives
If underground venues are the skeleton of the scene, DJ collectives are its beating heart. These crews shape the sonic identity of Hong Kong’s rave culture, curating lineups, building communities, and pushing genre boundaries. Some operate in established clubs, others in pop-up spaces, warehouses, or outdoor locations announced only hours before. Their presence is what transforms a room into a movement.
Abyss
Abyss, co-founded by Shanda (now based in Berlin) and Angelika, is a techno-forward collective known for sporadic but unforgettable parties. Their sound is percussive, psychedelic, and uncompromising, often featuring artists from Europe. Abyss events are rare nowadays, but when they happen, expect full houses.
Dark Metaz (黯)
Dark Metaz(黯) is a collective that leans into the shadows. Their sound is deep, dubby, and cinematic in genres like dub techno, experimental bass, and ambient textures. Besides holding parties themselves, they’ve also brought international artists like Hamdi and The Glitch Mob to Hong Kong, but their real strength lies in crafting immersive atmospheres that feel more ritual than rave.
Feed the Dragon is a bass-driven collective with a mission to champion UK sounds across Asia. From jungle to drum & bass, to garage, their events are rhythmic rebellions. They’ve launched a label, hosted workshops, and played in cities from Hanoi to Amsterdam, always having an ear tuned to the underground.
Goldway
Goldway channels the hypnotic side of rave culture. Their sets explore ambient, deep techno, and psychedelic rhythms, often performed in intimate venues or outdoor gatherings. Goldway’s sound is meditative and transportive, the music for dancers who close their eyes and drift.
Heavy Hong Kong
Heavy Hong Kong, for more than 2 decades, has been the city’s bass authority. Known for their custom-built sound system and devotion to drum & bass, dubstep, and reggae, they’ve hosted parties in places around the city, featuring bass you feel in your chest, not just your ears.
MÖTH Agency
MÖTH Agency is a queer-led collective that blends nightlife with cultural programming. Their parties are inclusive, genre-fluid, and often paired with workshops, radio sessions, and community outreach. MÖTH’s regular broadcasts feature up-and-coming DJs from around the world, making them a vital bridge between Hong Kong’s underground and the global electronic scene.
Slimefest
Slimefest, known for high-energy raves and genre collisions, co-hosted Hong Kong’s first Keep Hush party, spotlighting local talents like StickyFriedVibes and Baby Diwata. Their events are unapologetic, sweaty, and deeply communal.
Yeti Out is perhaps the most globally recognized of Hong Kong’s collectives. With roots in streetwear and subculture, they’ve hosted parties from London to Shanghai and recently played at Boiler Room Hong Kong. While their brand has grown, members still appear in underground events, keeping one foot firmly planted in the scene that raised them.
0159 Group
0159 Group emerged during the pandemic and quickly became a force in Hong Kong’s nightlife. Led by Yueming and Noscope720, they’ve hosted genre-spanning events featuring UK garage, breaks, and experimental club sounds. Their visual identity is raw and futuristic, and their bookings often include international artists on low-key tours.
Together, these collectives, alongside many more, form the soul of Hong Kong’s rave culture. They’re curators, connectors, educators, and provocateurs. Whether you’re stepping into a club or following a pin drop to a secret venue, chances are one of these crews is behind the decks, shaping the night.
Follow the Instagram of these venues and collectives to stay updated with some of the best parties in Hong Kong.
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Tokyo-based jewelry brand U-TREASURE has unveiled a special collaboration with popular anime “Haikyu!!,” with 13 new designs of the “Ring Necklaces” now available for pre-order in Hong Kong from now until Aug. 29, 2025!
The necklace design features the team colors of Karasuno High School and Aoba Johsai High School on the inside, while the inside can be engraved with one of 13 characters: Hinata Shoyo, Kageyama Tobio, Tsukishima Kei, Yamaguchi Tadashi, Nishinoya Yu, Tanaka Ryunosuke, Ennoshita Chikara, Sawamura Daichi, Sugawara Koshi, Azumane Asahi, Oikawa Toru, Iwaizumi Hajime, and Kunimi Akira.
Each piece, made in Silver 925, is priced at HK$1,320 and designed so the ring can be worn alone or layered with other necklace charms.
“’Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle’ was a hugely popular film, ranking first at the Taiwanese box office, and earned a gross box office revenue of over JPY¥20 billion worldwide. With this release, we are proud to be able to bring our craftsmanship of character jewelry to fans in Taiwan and Hong Kong,” said a representative from U-TREASURE.
Pre-orders are open exclusively via the U-TREASURE Online Shop here until Aug. 29, 2025. For more information, follow U-TREASURE on Facebook and Instagram.
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Hong Kong is about to get louder, in the best way possible. Live Nation has officially unveiled plans for TIDES, a brand-new, purpose-built live music venue opening this fall in the iconic ship-shaped The Whampoa complex in Whampoa, Kowloon.
With a standing capacity of 1,500, TIDES fills a long-standing gap in the city’s live entertainment infrastructure, offering a professional-grade space for artists who are too big for clubs but not quite stadium-scale.
Designed entirely in-house by Live Nation, TIDES will be fully equipped with integrated sound, lighting, and flexible staging for seamless plug-and-play operation.
To be located on the 1/F and U1/F of The Whampoa, the venue will also include artist support areas and a lounge for pre-and-post-show gatherings, making it as functional behind the scenes as it is immersive for fans. With a projected 250 event days annually, TIDES is poised to become a central hub for concerts, brand activations, and mid-scale productions.
Its launch couldn’t come at a better time. Hong Kong’s live music ecosystem has long struggled with a lack of mid-sized venues. The closure of KITEC and its Star Hall in Kowloon Bay last year left a noticeable void, forcing promoters to choose between intimate club spaces or cavernous stadiums. While government-run auditoriums like MacPherson Stadium and Ko Shan Theatre offer some relief, they weren’t designed with touring artists in mind and often lack the technical infrastructure required for modern productions.
The shortage is even more acute for small venues. Spaces with capacities between 300 and 600, ideal for emerging acts and indie showcases, are few and far between. Most are multi-purpose cultural centers or black box theaters with limited availability for music programming. This bottleneck has made it difficult for local talent to scale up and for international artists to include Hong Kong in their regional tours.
TIDES aims to change that. “The design prioritizes efficient setup, making it seamless for acts to include Hong Kong in their tour plans,” said Stephanie Bax, President of Venue Development Asia at Live Nation.
By offering a space built specifically for live music, TIDES not only aims to support the city’s cultural ambitions but also repositions Hong Kong as a competitive stop on the global concert circuit.
Follow TIDES’ Instagram here and Live Nation’s website here for updates and additional information.
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From August 19 to 23, the city will welcome the 2025 Saudi Super Cup, marking the first time the prestigious tournament is held outside the Middle East.
All matches will take place at the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium in Causeway Bay, bringing top-tier Saudi Pro League action to local and international fans.
Four clubs are set to compete: Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, and Al-Qadsiah. Originally slated to appear, Al-Hilal withdrew due to scheduling conflicts, with Al-Ahli stepping in to complete the lineup. The semifinals kick off with Al-Nassr facing Al-Ittihad on August 19, followed by Al-Ahli vs Al-Qadsiah on August 20. The winners will meet in the final onAugust 23.
And most, if not all, attention is currently on Cristiano Ronaldo. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Hong Kong on August 14 with Al-Nassr to a crowd of fans braving the rain outside Regent Hong Kong. He’s expected to lead his team in the semifinal, joined by fellow stars João Félix and Jader Duran. Al-Ittihad counters with its own elite lineup, including Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, setting the stage for a showdown between two former Real Madrid icons.
Alongside the headline acts from Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad, fans in Hong Kong will also get a close-up look at the rising firepower of Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah. Al-Ahli arrives with a stacked roster featuring Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney, and Edouard Mendy. On the other side, Al-Qadsiah, fresh off a strong domestic campaign, boasts a mix of seasoned talent and emerging stars with former Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez anchors the backline.
Tickets are available via Klook, ranging from HK$499 to HK$2,990 depending on seating tier. With global attention on the event and Ronaldo’s presence confirmed, the Saudi Super Cup is poised to be one of Hong Kong’s most memorable sporting moments of the year.
Follow the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s official Instagram here for more highlights to come.
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We always hear about underground raves, or dream about experiencing Berlin's techno scene one day. But what if we told you that this is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to party over all three floors of an iconic historical building and landmark of Hong Kong?
01 Festival, presented by 0159 Group with FuFu Agency, the creative powerhouse behind Shi Fu Miz, will be holding a huge underground rave festival in the historic three-story building of Murray House in Stanley on Aug. 30, 2025, from 3-11pm.
The festival will have three different stages on each floor: the 01 Festival Stage focusing on 4/4 influenced sounds; FuFu Stage highlighting groovy vibes; and 0159 x FuFu Stage oriented to UK influenced sounds.
In partnership with 01 Festival, we are giving away two pairs (four tickets in total) of Festival Tickets, valued at HK$1,000 per pair. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibes and energy of the underground music world (and you don't have to stay up all night either)!
From Aug. 19-25, head over to The Beat Hong Kong's Instagram page and follow the instructions in the post caption. The giveaway will end on Monday, Aug. 25 and two winners will be chosen on Aug. 26, so make sure to follow us and check for updates. Don't miss it!
Active since 2014, FuFu is a Hong Kong-based music agency, specializing in artist bookings, festival and event promotion, a record label, solar sound system rentals, and many more.
Under the leadership of Yueming and Yutang, 0159 is a rising Hong Kong collective and artist promoter, seeking to transform the electronic music landscape in Hong Kong.
Together, they've joined forces to present the first edition of01 Festival, bringing Hong Kong's and other highly globally accredited artists for an exclusive one-day rave.
01 Festival 2025 Stanley Murray House Sat, August 30 3:00 PM
- 11:00 PM
Dance through history at 01 Festival 2025, Hong Kong’s bold new electronic experience, on Aug. 30 at Stanley Murray House. Get your tickets now!
Terms & Conditions
Giveaway period: Tuesday, Aug. 19 to Monday, Aug. 25, 2025.
No purchase necessary to enter or win.
Winners will be selected randomly to ensure fairness.
The giveaway is open to Hong Kong residents only and participants must be 18 years of age or older.
In case of any disputes, The Beat Asia reserves the right of final decision.
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If you’ve ever wanted to feel the pulse of a dancer’s footwork without leaving your seat, Wayne McGregor’s latest creation might be your ticket.
The celebrated British choreographer has teamed up with Hong Kong Ballet, Hong Kong Baptist University(HKBU), and a roster of international artists to launch On the Other Earth, a radical immersive dance experience that premiered at the Venice Biennale Danza 2025.
Set inside a 360-degree panoramic screen with 26 millionpixels of visual intensity, the installation surrounds viewers with cinematic choreography, 3D animation, and spatialized soundscapes that evoke both deep space and deep ocean, making it a sensory plunge into movement, myth, and speculative futures.
Hong Kong plays a starring role in the immersive experience. Dancers from the Hong Kong Ballet corps perform alongside McGregor’s own company, with sequences filmed on the Peninsula Hotel’s helipad and other iconic city locations. “This groundbreaking collaboration brings together the best of international innovation and artistry,” said Septime Webre, Artistic Director of Hong Kong Ballet. “Our dancers bring extraordinary versatility to this fusion of ballet, contemporary dance, and cutting-edge technology.”
The installation is powered by nVis, a stereoscopic 12K LED cylindrical screen developed by Professor Jeffrey Shaw and Professor Sarah Kenderdine at HKBU’s Visualization Research Centre. Funded by the HKSAR Government’s Innovation and Technology Commission, the project exemplifies Hong Kong’s commitment to art-tech leadership.
“It will be a solid demonstration of the power of transdisciplinary innovation and knowledge transfer, one that transcends geography and culture,” said Professor Terence Lau, Interim Chief Innovation Officer at HKBU, on the installation’s global tour.
Thematically, On the Other Earth aligns with the Biennale’s “Myth Makers” focus, reimagining ancient stories through digital choreography. McGregor’s work asks whether immersive environments can rival the emotional immediacy of live performance, a question that resonates in a city increasingly invested in cultural innovation.
For Hong Kong audiences, the excitement is just beginning. The installation is slated to arrive at Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts in 2026, promising a cultural event that blends dance, design, and digital spectacle in a way the city has never seen before. As HKBU President Professor Alex Wai noted, “Showcasing Hong Kong’s homegrown performance on the world stage highlights our distinctive creative vision”.
Whether you’re a ballet diehard or a tech-curious art lover, this is one experience that invites you to step inside the story.
For more information about the production, visit Wayne McGregor’s website here and follow him on Instagram here. Stay updated with Tai Kwun's events and happenings by following them on Instagram and Facebook.
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