Murakami’s Cherry Blossom Pop-Up Debuts at Pacific Place This August

Before rap had a proper place in Hong Kong’s music identity, DJ Lorry was already spinning beats through crowded disco nights, driven by the belief that hip hop deserved more than underground admiration. 

In a city where Canto pop songs ruled the charts and radio DJs carried household fame, hip hop thrived quietly in the shadows, being sustained by dancers, DJs, and creatives with a defiant streak. By the late ’90s, genre-blurring pop tracks began to hint at Canto rap’s presence, but it wasn’t until the LMF’s explosive arrival that local youth embraced rap as a voice of self-expression. 

DJ Lorry was there before the movement took shape. “I started out in the early ’90s as a disco disc jockey,” he explains with an emphasis on disco, laughing at how people often assumed he was a radio host. “Back in my youth, I had this wild ambition to change the world, so I committed to becoming a DJ who focused solely on hip hop.” 

That bet paid off as Lorry gave his career a strong foundation and eventually carved out a space where hip hop could begin to speak Cantonese with pride. 

In a city where hip hop may have been pushed to the sidelines, DJ Lorry and his collaborators are bringing it back to the mainstage "Shogun Rapper (說唱大將軍)," a new rap musical featuring 19 local rappers that’s wrapped in ritual, powered by community, and expressed in the voices of homegrown talents. 

Join us in a reflective conversation as The Beat Asia dives into DJ Lorry's journey, his role in shaping Hong Kong's hip hop culture, and ambitious upcoming production.

What’s your journey in the local hip hop scene, and how do you see your role in it today? 

I started purely as a DJ, there wasn't really a 'hip hop scene’ at the time. 

In the’90s, people danced to hip hop in discos, and you’d see B-boys on the streets, but rap was barely touched. Outside of big mainstream acts like Softhard (軟硬天師), it was almost impossible for regular people to get into it with no resources.

In 2001, my crew and I put out a track experimenting with dance beats and rap, which is not exactly hip hop in my view, but it’s wild that people still talk about it today. I’ve never tried to define my role in the scene. The respect I get now comes from younger generations, and I’m truly flattered. I’m not chasing anything, I just work with the people I meet along the way, doing what feels natural. That kind of journey, to me, is a beautiful life. 

How would you describe the current state of Hong Kong’s rap scene?

There aren’t many platforms here where people can perform because it takes funding, which means the audience, not just listeners, is incredibly niche. 

I believe a lot of young rappers start with a dream but reality hits fast. That’s also part of what makes Hong Kong's art scene so unique, you need the right time, right place, and right people to truly be seen. 

In your opinion, what kind of fuel would help ignite Hong Kong's rap scene? 

The market here is dominated by mainstream music, and that’s a major obstacle. 

There’ve been successful crossovers, like Sammi Cheng and LMF, or, more recently, Jason Chan featuring Novel Fergus, and Juno Mak working with several rappers. And we’ve seen independent artists break through to the mainstream industry. Despite mainstream media rarely exploring music outside their comfort zone, and most people don’t know where to look, a lot of artists are grinding silently, especially those doing creative work, who fight to break out of this structure. 

Unlike countries with deeply rooted rap ecosystems like the US, UK, or South Korea, Hong Kong’s relationship with hip hop has always been complicated. 

Now, decades into his journey, DJ Lorry’s latest project as the Creative Director of "Shogun Rapper (說唱大將軍)" marks another bold turning point. The production, showing for one night only on August 8, 2025, features 19 rappers, 17 of whom are from four distinct collectives. 

Backing them is an art-driven creative team determined to push Cantonese rap beyond convention. Blending street culture, storytelling, and spiritual symbolism, the show is Lorry’s way of honoring the often-overlooked artists while amplifying the voices shaping the next wave. 

Building on that energy, Lorry shaped the show into something truly unique, a rap performance that functions like a musical. 

“The inspiration behind Shogun Rapper comes from a kind of spiritual energy,” he explains. “Whether you’re religious or not, whenever you reach a bottleneck or feel lost, certain people and events tend to appear, they guide you toward a shift in your creative process or personal choices.” 

The format reflects this sense of transformation. Infused with mythological elements, performers channel a symbolic power known as ‘the Shogun,’ (大將軍) which triggers explosive stage presence and emotional power. The result is not just performance but resonance which takes root in an original storyline steeped in ancient legend, as Lorry recounts. 

What narrative themes do you have at play in the show?

The story begins in ancient times with the great battle between Huangdi (黃帝) and Chiyou (蚩尤). 

Long, long ago, humans lived in caves, surviving on raw meat and animal hides. Whether in joy or suffering, they could only cry out. Emotions remained trapped inside, with nowhere to go. 

That changed when Cangjie (倉頡) invented written language. Suddenly, people could express themselves, record all things under heaven, and even reshape the world around them. At that moment, Huangdi and Chiyou were locked in the Battle of Zhuolu (涿鹿之戰) and both sides turned to rap, the most advanced form of expression then, to wage an epic clash that shook heaven and earth. 

But Chiyou made a mistake. One wrong punchline led to his downfall. Huangdi, armed with perfect delivery and a high-powered production team, crushed him completely, leaving only his tongue behind. That tongue was then forged into a microphone, said to carry Chiyou’s spirit.  

From then on, Chiyou wandered the earth, helping different artists. The mic channels rap straight to the soul, stirring hearts wherever it’s heard. This mythical being has many names in different places, but in Hong Kong, he’s known as the ‘Shogun Rapper.’

What do you hope audiences take away from Shogun Rapper — emotionally, culturally, or artistically?

The message is simple, and it’s positive: Whatever you pursue, if it’s something you love, something you’re willing to work for, you’re already one step closer to success. 

You have established rappers and rising voices in "Shogun Rapper's" lineup, who are some of the city's stars you are spotlighting?

The lineup features several well-known names to local audiences in the scene: YACK STUDIO, M4GANG, WOLFE, and GRIND FLOOR. 

One spotlighted artist is Haysen Cheng, a Hong Kong rapper currently building his music career in Chengdu. He’s released multiple Cantonese tracks across Mandarin-speaking regions, working tirelessly to promote Cantonese rap and Hong Kong culture. Seeing how far he’s come, it made perfect sense to invite him as a presence for this show.  

Also joining is WAVYSOUND, a rising collective poised to grab attention in the near future. Each member brings a unique style, and their music showcases impressive fluidity and finesse. Their performance on this stage is highly anticipated. 

Who are the local brands, artists, or creatives involved in shaping the show’s aesthetic?

Our Executive Director Yuwen has delivered a wide range of outstanding artistic work within Hong Kong’s hip hop scene and is held in extremely high regard by the community. His involvement brings a sense of calm and confidence—like a remedy that steadies the spirit. 

Visual Director BOMS uses his illustration skills and composition to connect music and image, creating an immersive visual impact for the audience. He also designed the symbolic “flower script” characters representing each rapper, featured in the promotional poster and event booklet in collaboration with our Poster Designer Raymond. 

Animator JollyB brings her signature animation style to the show, adding a layer of flair that elevates the entire experience. 

In the Shogun Rapper narrative, a sacred relic from Chiyou appears on stage, which is designed by toy artist and Prop Design Head N9TH STUDIO to bring myth into material form. 

Lastly CULT KEY, a renowned professional crew made up of independent musicians rounds out our Sound & Production Team. Special shoutout to A TEAM for their full support in making it all come together! 

"Shogun Rapper's" announced lineup features 19 rappers drawn from four collectives and two independent acts. Each group carries its own sound and philosophy, offering a cross-section of Hong Kong’s evolving hip hop identity. 

YACK STUDIO brings the lyrical precision of Novel Fergus, Novel Flash, and LeShing; M4Gang offers raw energy through the voices of PetPetShawn, Skinhead (光頭), Joe Yip (拉天槽), Polar G, and Zodi. Grind Floor delivers underground boombap through NKidd, ZAIN, and Buzzy.D; and rising collective WavySound blends versatility with flow through Raydog, DRG, Stonefish99, LIZ, Yeaboi, and MDot. 

All while independent voices of the show, Wolfe and Haysen Cheng (鄭景曦), round out the core lineup. 

The show doesn’t stop there. Shogun Rapper promises the unexpected, with surprise guests not listed on posters and a handful of iconic tracks set to debut live, with no guarantee of another chance, making it a rare moment in Hong Kong’s hip hop calendar. 

Beyond the spotlight, Lorry’s efforts to nurture local talent continue. In recent months, he partnered with a local nightclub to host ‘HIP HOP NIGHT,' a weekly event series designed specifically for rising DJs and rappers. It’s modest, but meaningful as a consistent platform where new voices gain performance experience and can connect with a live audience. 

“This small stage lets everyone build confidence and connect through their work,” Lorry says. In a city with few resources for independent rap, spaces like this are essential. 

And the emotional core of Shogun Rapper is rooted in reflection. Lorry believes that love and commitment are the real benchmarks of success. “A good foundation never fades,” he says. “Even when you’re lost or if the path feels like a waste of time, one day you’ll remember what it was like to start.” 

Speaking from his experience of having stepped away from music for a decade to pursue photography, he says it was the raw and fearless voices of young rappers that woke him up, adding it’s the youngsters who reminded him of his beginnings. 

Shogun Rapper is built on that rediscovery: a tribute to revival, artistic sincerity, and shared energy. 

What are some traits you look for when discovering new talents?

I don’t place special emphasis on any one part of it because, after all, art is always tied to trends. I think when we don’t understand something, it’s because we haven’t taken the time to truly learn about it. Once you do, once you see the whole picture clearly, you begin to understand what the other person is trying to express. 

In the end, it’s all about learning and absorbing like how Hong Kong has different slang and cultural phrases depending on the era, and this city is known for how fast trends change. And I keep up by asking the younger generation questions. 

⁠What’s a piece of advice you have for up-and-coming artists?

Do something that, years down the line, you’ll look back on with pride, without regret, something that still resonates after you’ve grown. 

Are there any upcoming collaborations or new concepts you’re developing beyond Shogun Rapper?

I don’t plan too far ahead as I want to give this show the full attention it deserves. However, I dream of collaborating with artists across different countries and languages. If we have resources, I believe it can happen. 

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

With DJ Lorry as the creative mind the show, "Shogun Rapper (說唱大將軍)" will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 6 PM at the Heung Yee Kuk Grand Theatre in Shek Mun, Sha Tin. General admission standing tickets are priced at HK$690. 

With its textured storytelling, cross-disciplinary vision, and roster of both established and rising talent, Shogun Rapper mirrors the tension and promise of Hong Kong’s music scene. It’s experimental, unapologetic, and overflowing with spirit, just like the culture it comes from, and a one-of-a-kind performance you don't want to miss. 

Follow DJ Lorry on Instagram and visit his Spotify page. You can purchase tickets for Shogun Rapper on BOOK YAY and visit their Instagram for more information. 

Attention! Pickleball's popularity in Hong Kong will reach a new height in the PPA Tour Asia Hong Kong Open, held August 21–24 at the new Kai Tak Sports Park. 

And we know it was bound to happen- what started as a backyard pastime in the U.S. has long landed in Hong Kong’s cultural spotlight. This indoor-or-outdoor sport, a blend of ping-pong and tennis, is now commanding serious attention and court time across the city. With diverse age and rating categories available, over 600 players have already registered for a slice of the US$50,000 prize pool. 

If you’ve never tried the sport, know that it's addictive for people of all ages. With straightforward rules, pickleball is social and easy to pick up like other popular activities such as bouldering and escape rooms, perfectly reflecting Hong Kong’s fast-paced but diverse urban energy. 

It only takes a few tries before you're hooked, and local venues have already transformed into social hubs, mixing active play with post-game conversations and laughter.

Hong Kong’s broader sports culture is undergoing a renaissance, and pickleball does benefit from that change alongside growing interest in emerging sports like padel, spikeball, and urban running clubs as the city is embracing a more diverse and inclusive athletic identity. 

Kai Tak Sports Park, standing as a symbol of this transformation, offers space for competitive events and community participation alike. This shift toward accessible, lifestyle-driven recreation is turning Hong Kong into a dynamic playground for both locals and visitors.

While Hong Kong positions itself as a premier venue for regional play, and clubs continue popping up from Central to Yuen Long, the local pickleball community shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re already a sports enthusiast or seeking a new way to stay active, now’s the time to get in the game. 

For registration and information, visit PPA Tour Asia’s website here and follow them on Instagram. 

If you’ve found yourself strolling along Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour or riding a ferry after sunset lately, you may have noticed the skyline flickering with echoes of a city seemingly distant from today. That’s HK:PM, a unique moving-image commission by Canadian photographer Greg Girard, projected nightly until the end of September 2025 on the massive LED facade of the M+ Museum at the West Kowloon Cultural District. 

The piece transforms Girard’s iconic analog photographs, originally taken between the 1970s and 1990s, into a slow, cinematic sequence. In addition to neon-lit backstreets and club scenes that evoke nostalgia, Girard’s lens captured the fragments of life once thriving in places like Kai Tak Airport and the Kowloon Walled City.  

Importantly, Girard isn’t just another visitor with a camera. He’s a longtime observer and interpreter of Asia’ urban soul. Having spent over three decades living in and exploring Asian metropolises like Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Shanghai, he ventured into different corners of the cities that even locals may be strangers to.  

Girard’s photography and publications have shaped how global audiences perceive Asia’s evolution, telling stories of collective history through intimate moments and personal memories.  

As these iconic images of old Hong Kong loop across the harbor and skyline, they become a silent visual memoir, both a tribute and quiet reckoning with what remains and what’s been lost. But isn’t looking back the clearest way to envision what comes next? 

Catch the nightly showcase from Victoria Harbour promenade and follow M+ Museum’s Instagram and Facebook for updates and upcoming events. 

Greg Girard: HK:PM Screening Details: 

Location: M+ Facade, West Kowloon District, Kowloon, Hong Kong 

Dates: July 4 – September 28, 2025 

South Australian sci-fi comedy Lesbian Space Princess has been generating major buzz on the international festival circuit, and recently it landed at the resounding third edition of Macau International Queer Film Festival (MIQFF), from May 30 to June 21, 2025. For a limited time, the award-winning animated film was screened at Emperor Cinemas, pulling Asian audiences into its bubblegum-colored orbit.

Co-written and directed by Leela Varghese and Emma Hough Hobbs, the story follows an anxious alien space princess Saira, as she blasts across the galaxy to rescue her bounty-hunting ex-girlfriend Kiki from a group of rogue “Straight White Maliens" — a race of alien incels from the future determined to lure 'chicks' to their mancave.

Varghese, a queer writer, director, and musical comedian, and Hobbs, a filmmaker, production designer, and animator, developed the film through the Film Lab: New Voices initiative, funded by South Australian Film Corporation.

This film marks both Varghese and Hobbs' first directorial feature, and it’s already earned serious acclaim, including the prestigious Berlinale Teddy Award for LGBTQIA+ film at Berlinale 2025. 

Lesbian Space Princess leans hard into wacky campiness. The film bursts with candy-colored visuals, pop culture references and catchy musical numbers. But it's not just a sapphic space romp, this inter-gay-latic musical comedy dives headfirst into themes like self-worth, queer identity, and fragile masculinity. 

We caught up with Varghese and Hobbs to hear their inspirations behind Lesbian Space Princess and what it was like seeing it light up the screen at MIQFF.

What sparked the idea for Lesbian Space Princess, and what drew you to bring this story to life?

The title actually came to us first—we built it backwards from there. As you can probably tell from the name, this film doesn’t take itself too seriously. But from the start, we knew we wanted to make something that felt true to us: campy, silly, fun, super queer, and full of heart.

 We really wanted to create a comedy rooted in queer joy. We also felt that voices like ours have been underrepresented in adult animation as writer-directors, and we wanted to help change that. 

How did it feel to have your film shown at an international queer film festival like MIQFF?

It gave us hope and encouraged us to keep trying and making films, because we’re not alone. The queer film community is small but mighty.

Our hearts are full being surrounded by so many beautiful queer films. It’s a difficult time in the world — especially for our trans family — and safe spaces are important for our community.

Were there any specific films or directors you were excited to see featured at MIQFF?

Yes! Queerpanorama by Jun Li and Sirens Call by Miriam Gossing & Lina Sieckmann. We’ve crossed paths with these filmmakers, and they deserve all the success in the world.  

In what ways do you hope Lesbian Space Princess will resonate with audiences?

We're here to give people a laugh and in our film, queer people and people of color rule the gay-laxy. 

We hope it's 87 minutes of fun and escapism where minorities feel seen, celebrated, and empowered. 

Are there any queer films that inspired or influenced your approach to this project?

The project in general was heavily inspired by our favorite rom-coms and animations. 

Queer anime like Revolutionary Girl Utena and Cardcaptor Sakura inspired us in different ways. But ultimately, we wanted to make this film because we’ve never really seen animated POC lesbians in space.

Are there any up-and-coming filmmakers in Asia you'd recommend keeping an eye out for?

Khozy Rizal! 

No one is out there doing it like Khozy, his films and his presence are a true gift and we can't wait to see where he decides to go after winning the crystal bear for Little Rebels Cinema Club. 

We also love Annapurna Sriram and her incredible film Fucktoys. Calleen Koh is going to rule the world of animation one day. “My Wonderful Life” is just so entertainingly [messed] up in the best way imaginable.

Can you tell us more about Saira’s character? Is she inspired by real-life experiences or people?

She’s really a mix of the two of us — full of anxieties and insecurities. 

Like us, she might cry her way through life, but she keeps going while she’s doing it. We think that’s pretty cool. 

We were also inspired by a quote from Australian comedian Hannah Gadsby: “Where do the quiet gays go?” Saira is someone who doesn’t fit into her community. Sometimes we don’t feel at home in the spaces where we think we’re supposed to belong, and that can be really painful—it can make you feel like there’s something wrong with you.

The film’s visual style and animation are striking. What influenced these artistic choices?

The visual style of the characters are based on Emma's personal art style, and we put a lot of care into making sure that the visual journey of the film always reflected our intentions with where the characters were at in their journey. 

Each major location has a specific color palette, and we wanted it to be colorful and fun looking. One of our favorite things is searching the background art for little jokes left by our artists (e.g. Pale Male Ale in the mancave).

What was your creative dynamic like throughout the process and how did your collaboration shape this film?

We were a little bit like Yin and Yang; we played into our strengths a lot and were constantly debating the best way to go about solving a creative problem we were having. 

Leela's fantastic with dialogue and a real-life comedian and Emma is an animator and production designer so we both had great opportunities to go somewhere challenging and maybe uncomfortable with the guidance and help of the other. 

What key message or feeling do you hope audiences walk away with after watching Lesbian Space Princess?

Good question! Gosh, I think it’s different for different kinds of people watching. A lot of the themes are about self-love and the importance of being comfortable with being single. I think it’s for anyone who needs to hear that message. Hopefully certain moments in the film strike a chord with them. 

Ultimately, we just want queer people to have fun and feel seen and empowered by the film. 

Looking to the future, are there any upcoming projects you’re working on that you can share with us?

We're hoping to make a Lesbian Space Princess game – it’s very early days though. 

How do you see your journey evolving as filmmakers in the coming years?

We just want to tell more stories, hopefully we will get the opportunity to make more features and dip into TV and continue to tell funny stories with heart. 

Watch the trailer for Lesbian Space Princess here or visit their Instagram page. 

Stay connected with Leela Varghese on her Instagram, and Emma Hough Hobbs on her Instagram.

For more information, visit MIQFF's brand showcase or check out their website, Instagram and Facebook. 

This summer, give your jewelry box a sprinkle of stardust with Pandora’s new ESSENCE collection.

Timed perfectly with the release of KATSEYE’s second EP Beautiful Chaos, out on June 27, 2025, Pandora's new campaign stars global sensation KATSEYE and draws from Pandora's Summer 2025 collections, with.

Each member of the powerhouse girl group Daniela, Lara, Manon, Megan, Sophia, and Yoonchae have handpicked a charm from the PANDORA ESSENCE Collection that represents their individual essence and story, to style with their own personal touches.

From Sophia’s Anchor Mini Dangle Charm to Megan’s vibrant Cherry Dangle Charm and Manon’s regal Queen and Regal Crown, each piece adds a distinct individual touch to the signature KATSEYE look, whether through layering or wearing it boldly as statement pieces.

The PANDORA ESSENCE Collection captures love’s dual nature – strong yet gentle—echoing the graceful flow of sand and waves. Two signature textures take center stage: twisted (recalling windswept shores,) and rippled (evoking the ebb and flow of water). 

Sculptural rings, earrings, and bracelets are available in luminous 14K gold plating or 925 sterling silver, adorned with freshwater cultured pearls and glittering cubic zirconia. These are great for stacking or layering, if you want a chunky effect. But what really shines are the quiet details, such as asymmetrical heart shapes, dual-toned arcs, soft curves that speak to love in all its rawest forms.

Some pieces, like the Rippled Stacking Ring and Rippled Gold-Plated Hoop Earrings, inspired by shifting sands and natural textures, shimmer like sunlight skipping across the sea. But side note, make sure to keep your Pandora jewelry from touching sand and saltwater if you want to keep it shiny all summer!

Other pieces like the Gold-Plated Necklace and Twisted Gold-Plated Open Bangle feature fluid lines and double circles with shifting metallic hues. 

For those who like to wear their heart on their sleeve (or wrist, or neck), Pandora allows you to customize your ESSENCE Collection. Selected pieces can be engraved with a name, date, or private message at select Pandora stores. Whether it’s for a best friend, a partner, or yourself, let the jewelry speak for itself!

Engraving is available at: Hysan Place, IFC, Langham Place, Harbour City, Telford Plaza, New Town Plaza, Metroplaza, V City, and YOHO Mall in Hong Kong.

Shop Pandora's collection on their website. For more information, visit Pandora on Instagram, Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter). 

Stanley's iconic landmark, Murray House, is getting a whole new vibe this August 2025 with Murray Summer. 

Hosted by Carnaby Fair, in collaboration with Stanley Plaza, the three-story historical site will be transformed into a cultural and lifestyle playground! It's the first time this 19th-century architectural building is being used as a live event venue. 

The festival will take place every Saturday and Sunday in August from 10am to 7pm, offering a wide range of energy-packed fun and family-friendly activities. 

The Beat Asia is proud to announce our media partnership with Murray Summer and share exclusive festival details through our channels. Scroll to explore what to expect and how to make the most out of the festival! 

Where Culture, Wellness, and Vibes Collide

Think about all of the activities on your to do list and now you get to do them all in one go! 

Start your day with morning yoga sessions led by Ikigai, then flex your sporty side with pickleball, mini padel, and mini golf hosted by ePGA. In the evening, drift into Cantodisco sets, powered by CantoMania. 

Courtesy of Young Master Brewery, Neon Tiger, and Only Beverages, enjoy free-flow alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks as you're playing or just hanging around the area with your mates! 

Oh, and fur babies are welcome too! Adorable pet-friendly indoor activities will also be held at the festival. 

The Grand Finale: An Underground Rave

Mark your calendars: Aug. 30, 2025, is when Murray Summer flips the switch. 01 Festival, brought to life by the creatives behind Shi Fu Miz, FuFu Agency, and 0159 Group, is hosting a one-day rave from 3pm to 11pm, transforming Murray House into a full-on three-story underground rave.  

Expect immersive lights, intoxicating beats, and incredible energy that will keep you moving the whole day! 

Admission is Free

Murray Summer is free to enter and all are welcome! 

If you're looking to join the action, certain activities and events require tickets, so be sure to secure yours before they sell out. 

01 Festival's First Release tickets are available for grabs now from HK$300. 

Explore the full program offering and ticketing details via the event link below!

CARNABY FAIR: Murray Summer Stanley Murray House Sat, August 2 11:00 AM onwards Experience arts, sports, and music at Murray House every weekend in August with Carnaby Fair’s vibrant #MurraySummer takeover.

How to Get to Murray Summer

You may drive or take a taxi directly to Murray House (美利樓). There are also a few public buses that take you to Stanley: 

• Citybus 260: Central (Exchange Square) - Stanley Market
• Citybus 6 or 6X: Central (Exchange Square) - Stanley Market
• Citybus 14: Sai Wan Ho (Grand Promenade) - Stanley Fort (Gate) / Ma Hang
• Citybus 973: Tsim Sha Tsui (Mody Road) - Stanley Market
• Green Mini Bus 40 or 40X: Jardine's Bazaar - Stanley Village / Stanley Prison

Be sure to check the Citybus app for bus schedules and any route changes before you head over! 

For 01 Festival ticket holders, you may purchase separate bus tickets arranged by the organizers. Visit this link for more details: 01 Festival Official Bus Schedule.

Follow Carnaby Fair on Instagram for more details and connect with us at @thebeat.hkg for exclusive updates! 

In a city overflowing with art exhibitions, escape rooms, and themed pop-ups, you may be on the lookout for something more transportive to engage your senses.

Look no further than Visionairs Asia’s Versailles: The Lost Gardens of the Sun King, an immersive escape from reality. Unlike other VR experiences that have your adrenaline pumping and your heart in your throat as you battle zombies or solve intense challenges, this VR experience lets you time-travel to 17th-century France, specifically French monarch Louis XIV's iconic vanished gardens of the Palace of Versailles.  

Brought to Hong Kong by Visionairs Asia and co-produced by Temple of Light, Gédéon Experiences, Small Creative, VIVE Arts, and the Palace of Versailles, this experience uses a collective and interactive virtual reality (VR) location-based experience (LBE), and doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks or cheap thrills to keep visitors engaged. 

The second you strap on a headset, you embark on a full-on journey through the art, architecture, and beauty of the palace in the year 1682, guided by none other than Louis XIV’s landscape architect André Le Nôtre.

Historic sites are reconstructed with historical and scientific accuracy by Aristeas, a subsidiary of the GEDEON group, in tandem with Small Creative, and it packs a good deal of substance into 25 minutes.

Part historical deep dive, part visual spectacle, this experience revives three spectacular yet long-lost parts of the Palace of Versailles: the Royal Menagerie, Grotto of Thetis, and Labyrinth Grove — historically significant spaces that once dazzled the French court in all its glory. 

As you first step into the palace's courtyard, you are greeted by the garden guru himself — Louis XIV’s landscape architect André Le Nôtre. Sure, he’s been dead for a few centuries, but thanks to a wildly convincing VR recreation, he’s back and wandering around like he never left.

While most people typically associate Versailles with opulent halls and manicured lawns, it was in the gardens that Louis XIV truly expressed his obsession with power, order, and divine grandeur. 

Tragically, what we see today of Versailles is only a fraction of what once existed. These gardens and groves — once meant to entertain royalty — have all disappeared due to redevelopments of the Château and the Revolution.

This is where VR becomes a powerful storytelling tool. The visuals are crisp and sharp, the motion response tracking eerily smooth, and when digital Andre Le Nôtre strides toward you, there’s a brief moment of panic where you wonder if he’s about to pass through your soul.

The technology allows you to explore at your own pace — walk around, peer behind a statue, linger in the shadows of trees. That sense of freedom makes all the difference, although there are some constraints. You’re confined to a rectangular boundary — if you step too far, white lines appear in your headset, a digital nudge reminding you of the physical world. It slightly breaks the spell, but it's a necessary part of the VR safety system. 

After an introduction inside the palace, we were transported to the Royal Menagerie, a whimsical reminder of courtly extravagance. Andre Le Nôtre explained that the menagerie once housed everything from ostriches to elephants, but that it was abandoned during the Regency period. By the 1750s, animals wandered around its ruins until they were eventually relocated to the Jardin des Plantes in Paris under Louis XVI.

Getting up close with the lively animals in the Menagerie was a definite highlight. You could roam around at your own pace, watch the flamingos flapping about, marvel at a tiger slinking by, and even dodge an elephant charging across your path. Kids will love this section, and even adults may find themselves smiling when a flamingo reacts to touching them. 

Next, we were transported to the Grotto of Thetis, located on the northern flank of the palace in its prime. In the real Versailles, it’s long gone, but in VR, its glimmering fountains and mythological sculptures dedicated to Apollo are resurrected in full glory. 

Another highlight was Labyrinth Grove, one of the palace's most mourned features, which was destroyed in 1776 and replaced by an English landscape garden. 

As you wander its green thicket pathways, five-meter-tall shrubs grow dynamically around you in real time. Each turn and choice you make is marked by the many iconic statues and fountains, embedded with scenes and animal sculptures from Aesop's fables.

This Labyrinth maze is more atmospheric than challenging, but it was so lifelike that we wished we could have explored it for longer.

A particularly lovely touch of the experience is the transition from daylight to twilight, with a deepening sky and soft shifts in light that build toward a grand finale. 

As the sun dips behind the palace, you are lifted to a panoramic perch where fireworks explode above the rooftops. The Palace of Versailles shimmers in the moonlight, golden and triumphant, an unforgettable and theatrical end to the experience.

Final Thoughts

Visionairs Asia's Versailles: The Lost Gardens of the Sun King is a captivating way to spend your afternoon. History fanatics, tech gurus, and art lovers will find plenty to enjoy in this immersive journey through a lesser-known chapter of French royal heritage. 

The crisp visuals and layered storytelling made it feel very realistic, just as the Sun King himself probably wanted it. Our VR guide walked the fine line of giving enough historical context to make us feel smarter without totally zoning us out. 

Whether you're a seasoned VR user or trying it for the first time, the experience is pretty seamless — unless you're easily spooked. In that case, a life-sized elephant suddenly charging at you might scare the Versailles out of you.

The historical commentary is rich and informative; however, we felt that the script occasionally leaned too formal, missing an opportunity to inject a touch more personality, which would make it feel more immersive. But for anyone intrigued by the intersection of history, art, and technology, this experience is truly something special.

The multilingual availability in English, French, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Suitable for children aged 8 and up. 

Tickets are priced HK$200 for adults on the weekend, HK$188 for adults during the week. Child/Student/Senior/Concession tickets are priced HK$168, and school (Bulk bookings) at HK$148. Book tickets now on Eventbrite or Klook.

For more information, visit Visionairs on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Visionairs: Versailles: The Lost Gardens of the Sun King Event Information:

Location: Visionairs, GF-01-03, Art Park, 22 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong

Dates: May 28 to Nov. 30, 2025

Opening Hours:
Monday: 11 AM to 6 PM   
Tuesday to Wednesday: 10 AM to 6 PM 
Thursday: 10 AM to 8 PM 
Friday to Saturday: 10 AM to 10 PM  
Sunday: 10 AM to 9 PM

Do you want to get your creative juices flowing this summer, but are unsure of where to start? Hong Kong's Centre for Heritage, Arts and Textile (CHAT) has just the thing for you.

The revitalized former textile mill and cultural hub, The Mills in Tsuen Wan, has unveiled a multifaceted range of summer programs for 2025, running from Aug. 2 to Oct. 26, 2025.

Headlining the season is the inaugural touring exhibition Tidal Weavers: Islands Exchange, an artistic journey through the folklore stories, sounds, and threads of the coastal communities across the South China Sea. 

This collaborative exhibition, co-organized by CHAT and Hong-Gah Museum, brings together eight artists and one collective, each creating new works through artist residencies across Asia Pacific's maritime regions. 

Representing Hong Kong are artists Mandy Ma (b. 1996) and Yip Kai Chun (b. 1984), who will travel to Komunitas KAHE, Maumere, and Susur Galur, Pontianak, in Indonesia. 

From Taiwan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, participating artists include Meita Meilita (b. 1992), Alma Quinto (b. 1961), Widi Asari (b. 1994), Ade Darmawan (b. 1974), Chang En-Man (b. 1967), and Yang Wei-Lin (b. 1963), who will be engaging in summer residencies and immersing themselves in cultures different from their own.

The result? Eight new artworks, spanning sound installations, video art, handwoven stories, and archival treasures, will be exhibited in Tidal Weavers, inspired by the artists' shared meals, conversations, and cultural exchange.

“This year, CHAT focuses on textile as a medium for connecting people and revisits its beauty and significance with contemporary artists. In the process of making the summer program, we have been through a wonderful and emotional journey weaving fabrics of friendship with artists, grass-roots art and culture communities,” said co-curator Takahashi Mizuki.

After Hong Kong, the exhibition will set sail for Hong-Gah Museum (Taiwan) in March 2026, followed by Langgeng Art Foundation (Yogyakarta), Indonesia, in June 2026.

Also on the summer slate is CHAT’s annual community program, Sara Tse: Seed to Textile 2025 Open Studio. 

Now in its seventh edition, this program aims to explore the roots of textile production through the interconnected practices of cultivation, textile creation, and artistic expression. 

Hong Kong artist Sara Tse (b. 1974) will draw inspiration from her former school, Kwai Chung Public School (previously Tsuen Wan Kwai Chung School), which has since been demolished, using it as a lens to reflect on shared memories and the shaping of identity. 

Through practices such as farming, natural dyeing, and collaborative art making, Tse explores how these organic elements — contrasted with the human-made school environment — can be carriers of personal and collective identity.

To bring this project to life, Tse collaborated with 36 fellow alumni and local community members, leading a series of workshops focused on cyanotype printing on fabric, branch weaving, natural dye techniques, and ceramic crafting. The creations from these sessions will be showcased in CHAT's upcoming exhibition, and Tse will exhibit her artworks so far. Visitors can view intricate, naturally dyed maps, archival materials from her former school, alumni audio stories, and her live workstation. 

Meanwhile, Tse and CHAT are organizing an open studio so visitors can join workshops in embroidery with natural dyed yarns and branch weaving. There will even be a performance in January 2026, featuring the results of the collaboration.

Not to be missed this summer is Artefacts of Circulation at CHAT Lounge. This exhibition takes a nostalgic look into Hong Kong’s industrial legacy through vintage textile packaging, advertising, and shines a light on how Hong Kong-made goods were produced and distributed.

For more information on the exhibition and programs, visit CHAT on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

CHAT'S Summer Programs:

Location: The Mills, 45 Pak Tin Par Street, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong

Date: Aug. 2 to Oct. 26, 2025

Opening Hours: 11 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)