Aaditya Sathish on What to Expect from Art Central 2025!

Hong Kong’s heartbeat has always thrummed to the sound of street life, and now, courtesy of the Mondrian Hong Kong, it's dancing to a new rhythm. 

This May, the five-star hotel is transforming the space opposite into a plein air stage. The Corner Shop Busking Festival celebrates the city’s up-and-coming homegrown musical talent, right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui.

Every Saturday in May, from 6 PM to 10 PM, two fresh faces of Hong Kong’s emerging talent will take center stage. Whether you're into acoustic folk, gritty pop, or transformative R&B, this cultural outpost brings you an eclectic mix of genres — to be enjoyed for free!

The Corner Shop Busking Festival kicked off on May 10, 2025, with an intimate set-up that gave guests the chance to meet the musicians, hear their stories in a relaxed, informal setting, while enjoying vibrant live music.

On May 10, the local singer-songwriter Siu Yuen presented a mix of covers and original music, spanning acoustic folk and pop folk. Candy Ng, a member of the female group "Sex on the Beat," impressed with bold, pop-driven lyrics. 

This coming May 17, at 6 PM, Gary and Exppa, a staple of Hong Kong’s busking circuit, will perform. Afterwards, VinkyBB, known for covers into personal anthems, will play at 8 PM. 

The following Saturday, May 24, expect soulful ballads from Eric at 6 PM and emerging singer and songwriter Sky at 8 PM.

For the final event on May 31, at 6 PM, Jhei, an artist and producer known for his original Cantonese ballads and R&B, will perform, followed by the young and talented Alvin and Homan at 8 PM.

For more information, stay tuned via Mondrian Hong Kong on their website, Instagram, and Facebook. 

Location: Mondrian Hong Kong, 11A-D, 8A Hart Avenue, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon

The rhythm of paddles slicing through water, the air thick with anticipation, and the energy of riled up festivity — Hong Kong's Dragon Boat Carnival is a celebration that is hard to beat.

This year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is transforming Tsim Sha Tsui East into a non-stop cultural extravaganza, from May 31 to June 8, 2025, with the much-anticipated Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races leading the charge.

Over 190 teams from 12 countries, including Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, and newcomers Egypt and Qatar, will converge on Victoria Harbour for an adrenaline-packed race. 

Over 4,500 athletes will paddle for glory in 19 high-stakes races, including a new Secondary Schools Championship aimed at inspiring the next generation to dive into Hong Kong's rich cultural traditions.

But the races aren’t all you should expect! HKTB is weaving together a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tastes that will keep visitors and locals hooked. The Dragon Boat Food Lane along the Avenue of Stars will serve up a nine-day feast of dragon-boat-inspired street snacks, rice dumplings, and summer drinks. 

The area will also be home to festive photo spots featuring Ocean Park Hong Kong’s adorable Panda Friends — the giant pandas An An, Ke Ke, Ying Ying, and Le Le, along with the adorable twin cubs Elder Sister and Little Brother.

Add to that exciting flash mob acrobatic performances by the world-renowned Cirque du Soleil, and a lively Beer Garden curated by San Miguel Brewery, where visitors can unwind with local brews and enjoy live race broadcasts.  

Visitors can stop by the HKTB Visitor Centers at Hong Kong International Airport, Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry Pier, and Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, or collect beer vouchers at the East Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and redeem them for a complimentary draught beer in the Beer Garden.

As the evening draws in, the waterfront carnival will be a glowing spectacle you won't want to miss, with the Beer Garden and Dragon Boat Food Lane staying open as late as 10 PM.  

For more details, check out HKTB’s official website, Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Races

Location: Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade

Hours: June 7, 2025 from 8 AM to 7 PM, June 8, 2025 from 8 AM to 6 PM

Dragon Boat Food Lane | Panda Friends@Ocean Park Hong Kong Pop-up Store

Location: Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui

Hours: 1 PM to 10 PM

“Cirque du Soleil” Flash Mob Performance

Location: Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui • The Urban Council Centenary Garden, Tsim Sha Tsui East

Hours: Between 1 PM to 6 PM (irregular hours)

Beer Garden

Location: The Urban Council Centenary Garden, Tsim Sha Tsui East

Hours: From 2 PM to 10 PM

Vibrant hues, lush greenery, and vivid Hong Kong landscapes leap off the canvases displayed Colours of Hope, the title of Children of the Mekong’s art exhibition, in partnership with French May 2025.

Running from May 8 to May 11, 2025, this dynamic showcase brings together 30 international artists, each contributing their unique vision to help transform the lives of underprivileged children in Southeast Asia. 

Held in the heart of Hong Kong Park at the charming Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre, this exhibition features international artists like Antoine de Saint Vaulry, Blanca Rosa Rasmussen, Derry Ainsworth, and Faustine Badrichani, to name a few—each bringing their personal touch to this collective celebration of color and hope.

Explore a wide range of art spanning photography, sculpture, and installations, curated by Marie-Hélène Vidal, Anne Deligny Villet, and Christel Villepelet, with the support of Delphine Canard-Moreau.

Every piece in the exhibition is a stepping stone towards a brighter future for disadvantaged children. All proceeds from the sale of the artworks will go directly to Children of the Mekong, funding vital programs that make a tangible difference in the lives of children across Southeast Asia.

Admission is free!

For more information, visit Children of The Mekong on their website, Instagram and Facebook. 

Location: Hong Kong Visual Arts Center, 7A Kennedy Road, Central

Exhibition Dates: May 8 to May 11, 2025

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 9 PM 

If you're in Hong Kong and have an eye for design, you won't want to miss Graphic Design in Japan 2024 (Hong Kong edition) at PMQ!

Running from Apr. 25 to May 11, 2025, this exhibition brings together over 300 of Japan’s finest graphic design works, all handpicked by Japanese design experts. 

It’s a celebration of creativity, showcasing the very best from the JAGDA Awards and beyond.

Not only will you see fresh, eye-catching designs, but you'll also get a chance to meet the masterminds behind them. Ryosuke Uehara, the 2024 JAGDA Award winner, will be there, along with Akiko Sekimoto, the mind behind the exhibition's GRAPHIC DESIGN IN JAPAN 2024 Yearbook, and Naonori Yago, the recipient of the JAGDA New Designer Award. They’ll lead guided tours and share their insights during Creative Voice Talks.

Beyond the main exhibit, the GRAPHIC DESIGN IN JAPAN 2024 yearbook compiles the top 568 designs selected from over 2,000 submissions, offering a deeper dive into this year's standout works. 

Don’t miss the chance to take part in the JAGDA Kids workshops, launched by PMQ Seed and JAGDA, as well as exclusive design books and prints, available through a pop-up shop in collaboration with local concept store MIDWAY SHOP.

The exhibition spans categories from Book & Editorial Design to Video, Digital Media, and Poster Design, with highlights including Issay Kitagawa’s “KAMIZU” series, Kenya Hara’s spatial installation, and Ryosuke Uehara’s logo design for LIVVERA wine. These works reflect how graphic design seamlessly integrates into our everyday lives.

And if you’re still craving more creative inspiration, head to the "FEEL FREE, FEEL 3" Picture Book Exhibition on the 7th floor of PMQ. Over 60 silent picture books with a variety of size, shapes and reading approaches are on display there, inviting visitors to explore storytelling through color, shapes, and design.

Both exhibitions are free to visit (except for the JAGDA Kids workshops).

For more information, visit PMQ’s official website or head over to their Instagram, Facebook, and X (Formerly Twitter).

Graphic Design in Japan 2024: 

Location: The Qube, 2/F, Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central

Date & Time: Apr. 25 to May 11, 2025, from 11 AM to 7 PM

“FEEL FREE, FEEL 3” Picture Book Exhibition:

Location: S710-S711, 7/F, Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central

Date & Time: Apr. 25 to May 18, 2025, from 11 AM to 7 PM

Those who are part of fandoms aren’t strangers to cosplay. In fact, it’s an integral part of the community, one that allows each member to express their admiration and love for a particular show or character. Also known as costume play, this performance art form is where individuals dress up as their favorite characters from various forms of fiction, including TV shows, comics, and video games. 

But cosplay is more than just wearing colorful wigs and elaborate costumes, it’s an expressive art form that involves embodying the characters’ persona, which cosplayers often showcase at conventions and events. During the recently concluded Cosplay Carnival, we got to witness otakus at full force as they paraded in their cosplay get-ups, and we were both amazed and impressed by their creativity and efforts in creating their respective looks. But among the casual cosplayers were also the pros, the bona fide cosers who have made a name for themselves online with their impressive cosplay projects. One of them was Hong Kong cosplayer and streamer Baobao.

We caught up with the Malaysia-based coser as she met with her avid Filipino fans, taking the opportunity to get to know her more — from her inspirations and favorite characters to her advice on pursuing a career in costume play. 

Pursuing a Childhood Dream

Baobao’s cosplay journey began like any passionate endeavor: as a dream. The cosplayer shared with us what sparked her interest in cosplaying, and how the first time she pursued it was a challenging adventure on its own.   

“Since I was young, I always dreamed of becoming the characters I love — like wanting to be Sailor Jupiter and having her toy wand! While studying abroad at university, I finally made that dream come true. I started cosplaying as a hobby because I loved the characters so much and wanted to become them.”

“I still remember my first convention — AniManGaki in Malaysia. I walked two kilometers in full costume under the hot weather from my dormitory just to attend! That experience really marked the beginning of my cosplay journey.”

As for who she cosplayed, it was Asuna from “Sword Art Online!” Baobao described the character as her all-time favorite waifu (“wife” in anime fandom) who inspired her to start cosplaying. She also mentioned that despite attending her first convention alone, Asuna gave her the courage to pursue something she had always wanted to do. This had also led her to form many wonderful friendships with fellow fans who share the same love for Asuna, showing that this art form is not just about creating costumes but also about forming meaningful connections. 

Baobao’s passion for cosplay has allowed her to meet fellow enthusiasts and anime fans as she’s often invited to events and conventions across the region. Since starting in 2012, the cosplayer has grown a massive online following with over 659k on Facebook alone. Meanwhile, her most viewed TikTok reel has amassed over 2.8 million views, which was her appearance at Anime Fest Malaysia dressed as Yor Forger from the anime “Spy Family.”

If you scroll through her content, you’ll often see her cosplaying impressive female characters from popular shows and video games. When asked what kind of cosplayer she believes she embodies, she answered, “A waifu-loving cosplayer! I’m always drawn to waifus who are brave, courageous, and have a kind heart! But overall, I’d say a friendly cosplayer because I love interacting with my fans.”

Cosplayers are known for their creativity as seen from their elaborate costume pieces, which are mostly handmade. It’s one of the things that makes the activity a little intimidating if you’re not that clever with handicrafts or have a good eye for fashion and styling. But Baobao pointed out to us that being good at something only requires persistence and practice. 

“When I first started, I didn’t know how to apply makeup at all! I had to learn step by step, taking screenshots of character details and trying my best to recreate them. Even now, I’m still learning and improving!” 

She also shared that although she doesn’t create full costumes, with most of them being commissioned, she’s still heavily involved in the process from requesting the fabrics she believes would best suit the character to crafting her accessories, which she admitted was something she enjoys doing. 

As for the preparation process? Baobao told The Beat Asia that it takes her approximately two hours, but if the costume is complicated, it usually takes more time — at least two and a half hours!   

“Nana and Theresa from ‘Honkai Impact 3rd,’” Baobao said when asked about her most difficult cosplay projects. “Nana was challenging because I had to do full-body paint, which kept smudging and coming off. It was a struggle to keep it looking good throughout the event. On the other hand, Theresa was tough because I wanted to recreate the exact pose from the artwork, but the wig was super heavy, making it hard to move naturally.”

Baobao also expressed that there are challenges to being a full-time cosplayer despite it being a viable career to pursue, such as dealing with various misconceptions about the craft and having to learn how to budget properly. The latter, she admitted, she struggled with because she would often spend too much on her costumes. 

“A big misconception is that cosplay is just about being sexy or being sexualized. But in reality, cosplay is about bringing a character to life and staying true to their originality. It’s a form of self-expression and passion!”

For those who want to follow in Baobao’s footsteps and achieve professional success in the world of cosplay, she advised, “Try starting it as a secondary career first. See if your earnings can cover your commitments before going full-time. That way, you can build a stable foundation.”

Pursuing a passion or hobby requires hard work, but in the world of cosplay, you can be sure that you can do it while having fun. At least, that’s what we’ve observed through our conversation with Baobao. When asked about the best part of her job, she mentioned the connections she has made through cosplay being the highlight of her career.  

“Meeting people from all over the world has been one of the best parts of this journey. It makes me so happy that cosplay has brought me opportunities to guest at events in different countries like Australia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand! I’m looking forward to attending more conventions and visiting new countries! I also want to cosplay more childhood characters this year — so stay tuned!”

You can follow Baobao on Facebook, X (Formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram for updates on her latest cosplays and event appearances. 

Romantasy has taken the literary world by storm. And by literary world, we mean “BookTok” which has turned this niche genre into a massive mainstream success. In all honesty, it’s been a long time coming, considering the genre has been in existence for years, offering readers the best of both worlds: an epic high-stakes adventure set in fantastical realms and intertwined with heart-pounding romance. What more can you ask for, right? 

In our latest exclusive, we’re shining the spotlight on the newest romantasy title that stole our hearts and which the author deemed as “the most romantic book I’ve ever written.” Introducing “Immortal,” a standalone romantic fantasy novel brimming with court intrigue, legendary creatures, and magical worlds. And of course, romantic moments that are quite literally to die for (IYKYK). 

The book is written by Hong Kong-based Malaysian author Sue Lynn Tan who’s known for her “Celestial Kingdoms” series, namely “Daughter of the Moon Goddess,” “Heart of the Sun Warrior,” and the short story compilation “Tales of the Celestial Kingdom,” which are all inspired by Chinese folklore. Her latest novel tells of a romance between a human and a god, fiercely different and yet unequivocally attracted to one another. It debuted at #1 on the Sunday Times Bestsellers list as well as the UK Top 50, which goes without saying that this is one epic love story you wouldn’t want to miss.  

The Beat Asia sat down with the author herself to talk more about her latest book, her inspirations for her fantasy novels, and her take on the importance of writing stories inspired by one’s culture. And yes, we also have the scoop on her next project! 

Hi Sue! When did you start writing? Was it something you always wanted to do?

Hi, thank you for having me here! I’ve loved writing since I was a child, but growing up in a traditional family, I never imagined it would be possible to study writing, much less to become an author. This love for reading and writing never went away – it was always at the back of my mind, a dream that seemed out of reach until I wrote “Daughter of the Moon Goddess.”

Speaking of your debut novel, have you always been drawn to the fantasy genre?

Definitely, though I tend to read broadly. I love the escapism and freedom of magical worlds, free from the constraints of real life. And I also really enjoy reading romance as part of the story, whether fantasy or contemporary. There is something both fascinating and liberating about writing fantasy, imagining new worlds unbound by reality. I especially love weaving mythology into my stories as I find these tales so powerful and evocative. 

We love “The Celestial Kingdom” series, which was inspired by Chinese mythology. How did you come up with the concept and story?

I’m so happy to hear that; thank you for reading it! "The legend of Chang’e," the moon goddess, is very close to my heart, celebrated every Mid-Autumn festival, and is deeply ingrained in my childhood. This story has stayed with me over time, partly because of its tragic ending. I believed Chang’e and Houyi, the legendary archer, were in love, and that it would have been very hard for Chang’e to take the elixir from her husband. I imagined, what if she did it for another reason than the variations recounted — maybe to save someone she loved as much as Houyi? 

From this idea, “Daughter of the Moon Goddess” took form as I envisioned a girl who grew up on the moon, who would fight as fiercely for love and her family as her heroic father did to save the world.

Were you always interested in myths? What makes them so fascinating to you?

I’ve always enjoyed reading mythology. I find they evoke many emotions, maybe because they are also deeply connected to our culture and childhood, yet are still fantastical and magical. It is also fascinating to learn the different variations a myth might possess because it’s not rooted in history, but can be shaped and evolved across time.

We totally agree, and you just released another folklore-inspired book! Let’s talk about your latest standalone fantasy novel, “Immortal.” What is it about?

“Immortal” is the most romantic book I’ve written, yet still an epic fantasy with kingdoms on the brink of war, court intrigue, legendary creatures, and magical worlds. It centers on a ruthless god of war and an ambitious ruler, two powerful yet very different people who are divided by their position and loyalties but are somehow drawn together in an attraction they fight to resist. It’s a story that explores the different facets of love, and one that I believe also challenges one’s perceptions.

How would you describe it in five words? And what can readers expect?

Love. Hate. Magic. Family. Destiny. 

“Immortal” is a fantasy with romance at its heart, with angst, tension, and yearning. It’s also a story of a young ruler’s ascent to power, and how she changes as she learns what it takes to rule a kingdom.

That sounds amazing! Can you tell us a bit about the inspiration behind the story?

In Chinese folklore, there is a God of War named Guanyu. However, the character in “Immortal” isn’t based on him, but rather inspired by his traits and abilities. 

I came across one of the god's statues in a forest in Hong Kong, and was struck by how intimidating he appeared with his red face, long beard, and great sword. And I wondered, 'What would someone like him be like as a romantic interest? Someone strategic and deeply intelligent, burdened by immense responsibility, who inspired such fear and dread. And what might someone in his position be like beneath the many layers he’s had to wear?' 

Was there a particular character or scene in the book that you enjoyed developing or exploring?

I really enjoyed crafting the relationship between Liyen and Zhangwei, how it grew and evolved. One of my favorite scenes takes place quite early in the book, in a library — the first time the characters interact without threat of danger or fear, as they begin studying and strategizing against one another.

We especially loved Liyen and Zhangwei’s dynamic! How do you work towards creating a balanced and well-paced character relationship development?

While Liyen and Zhangwei are very different, they are both powerful with great responsibilities — the fate of many rests on their choices and decisions. They are equals in the things that matter, their relationship focused more on the differences of character and loyalties than of status.

For me, editing is a vital part of refining how the characters evolve and the progression of their relationship. I usually work through a story multiple times to hone it, to ensure any development feels natural and organic to the characters.

They are definitely one of our favorite pairings! Can you tell us your favorite romantic quote from “Immortal?”

Two romantic quotes that are very special to me are “Dawn would be dark without you,” and “Where you go, I go.”

After reading your books, we have to say that you have the ability to make Chinese mythology feel real and somewhat tangible. How do you go about the descriptions of the settings? Are they mostly based on the original myth or your imagination?

Thank you so much! I am a very visual person and am greatly inspired by the things I’ve seen, whether at home or during my travels. Chinese xianxia dramas are also a key source of inspiration for me with their beautiful settings that I try to weave into the stories, alongside my own imagination. 

As an Asian author, why is it important for you to tell stories inspired by your culture?

I love my culture, and it’s a great privilege and honor to share it in my stories, as well as to draw inspiration from the many fascinating Chinese myths and tales that exist. It never fails to move me when a reader says they feel seen in my books, or when they tell me the books have inspired them to seek out more stories inspired by Chinese mythology or culture.

Do you have a favorite among your published titles?

It’s impossible to pick as I love each of them, but I will say that my newest book always seems to be most on my mind.

Do you have any dream projects — genres or themes you wish to write about next?

I’d love to write something completely different, and while I was traveling earlier this year, I did have a new idea for a book that I hope to be able to write soon.

How exciting! Speaking of new ideas, what’s next for you? Any upcoming releases we should look forward to?

“Never Ever After,” my first Young-Adult fantasy inspired by Cinderella will be releasing this fall. I have always loved fairy tales and really enjoyed weaving this one into the story. 

I’m also working on another adult fantasy inspired by a beloved Chinese legend, “Lady White Snake,” and I hope to be able to share more on this soon.

Follow Sue Lynn Tan on Instagram or sign up for her newsletter to be the first to know about her latest books!  

The Beat Hong Kong's Up and Coming is a series where we feature rising talented artists from Hong Kong, giving them a platform to share what they’re passionate about and to promote the music they (and us too!) would love for the world to hear. Do you want or know someone who wants to be featured? Email us at [email protected] or slide through our DMs on Facebook or Instagram!

Hong Kong’s music scene has long thrived on its homegrown talents, and Luna Is A Bep is no exception. 

A staple of Hong Kong’s alternative music scene, known for her razor-sharp Cantonese lyrics and experimental spirit, Luna is set to electrify the stage at this year’s Star Street Blok Party.

Luna has been nurturing her creativity since posting her rap lyrics on online platforms as early as 2018, songs which transform everyday observations and social dynamics into sonic gold. 

Based in Hong Kong, her music traverses different styles, from Hip Hop and Cantopop to Drum and Bass, a sound that is as unpredictable as the city she calls home.

Her raw, authentic style has quickly gained traction, earning her spots on ViuTV’s Chill Club and the 903 Music Awards. Luna also clinched the Best Electronic Music Single at the Tone Music Awards 2022 for her track "每當幻變時."

As she gears up for her performance, The Beat Asia caught up with Luna to talk about her creative process, the evolution of her music style, and playing the upcoming neighborhood bash. 

How did you come up with your name "Luna Is A Bep?"

In 2018, I started posting songs anonymously and wanted a fun stage name. "Luna" is my real name, so I thought of "Luna something." It was originally "Luna Is A Bitch," but I changed it to "Beep." When I made my Facebook page, I made a typo, and it became "Luna Is A Bep," which doesn’t really mean anything.

How did you get into rap and why pursue music?

I come from a grassroots background, and Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) opened my eyes to art. My music reflects local experiences, like Hong Kong’s busy life and social issues.

How would you describe your music and how has it evolved over time?

It’s hard to define—it's very much "me" and evolves over time, often being quite honest.

My taste has shifted. I choose music styles that fit the themes [of the song]. My latest song "到時" is a ballad about my father's loss, and I felt a Cantonese pop vibe suited it best.

Are you experimenting with different styles in the future?

Definitely! I’m exploring my feminine side, and I want to create related concept art.

Can you describe your creative process and where do you go for inspiration?

I focus on staying chill and letting inspiration flow, without a strict routine.

[I find inspiration] everywhere! Conversations, people watching, traveling, and life’s ups and downs.

Which artists impact your music the most?

I didn’t have an idol growing up, but The Low Mays back then really inspired me to embrace wild ideas. I love their absurdity and freedom.

Do you take an on-stage persona? How do your live shows differ from studio work?

I do! I'm more introverted offstage, but onstage, I connect with the audience and enjoy making them laugh. 

What do you think about Hong Kong's underground scene?

Social media has changed things. We used to have strong online communities; now it feels more about self-branding. But creativity is alive, and the younger generation's visual sense is more promising now.

Are you excited to perform at Star Street's Blok Party?

Yes! This is my first gig this year after my solo show in January. I appreciate every opportunity to showcase my work and can’t wait to see the audience!

What's next for Luna Is A Bep?

I’m taking a break. As the world slows down and AI tech moves fast, I want to stay calm and prepare for the next steps. I’m researching concepts and working on music, focusing on quality without rushing!

Stay connected to Luna Is A Bep on her website, Instagram and Facebook. 

Details on Luna Is A Bep's Star Street Blok Party Performance:

Location: Starstreet Precinct

Time: Friday, Apr. 18, from 2:40 PM to 3:25 PM

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.