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Hong Konger’s love drinking. They also love playing card games whilst drinking. And they also love recounting the good old past and childhood of their city, whilst playing card games and drinking.
To celebrate Hong Kong’s love for a little alcohol paired with the adventure of a treasured story, three Hong Kongers decided to create “Ride the Minibus,” a drinking game that “celebrates all the weird and wonderful things that make up living in Hong Kong.
The card game, created by Jhalak Shah, Trisha Daswani, and Krystal Tolani, brings together long time and passing residents to recount the stories of boozy junk trips, Sai Kung adventures, terrible English teaching, getting yelled at by taxi drivers, and the countless of stereotypical adventures for anyone living here.
The Beat Asia sat down with the trio of GetHigh HK and 852Prints to talk to them about Hong Kong’s most exciting party drinking card game.
Where did the journey start with Ride the Minibus? What made you create this game?
Ride the Minibus is a joint venture between GetHigh HK and 852Prints. We’ve known each other for a while and really admire each other’s businesses. As such, we wanted to collaborate on something together. Our first product idea was actually Hong Kong themed hiking socks.
After 3 months of design work and supplier negotiation, we met up for drinks to review the socks samples and in under 5 minutes, decided to scrap the socks altogether and brainstorm a different product collab after a night of dinner, drinks, and games. At the end of the night, it was a no brainer – and thus, the concept of a Hong Kong drinking game was born!
What is the aim of the game and why do you want people to play it?
The aim of the game, much to people’s surprise, isn’t actually to get drunk. From our experiences playing the game, we can barely get through 10-20 cards in a session because every card sparks so much conversation!
The game sparks conversations amongst players, encouraging them to open up about their weirdest and funniest experiences of living in Hong Kong. As a result, our players end up accepting and laughing about the quirks our unique city has to offer, and learning more about the other players.
Who are you making this for? And for what scenarios? Parties? Pres? Junk boats?
The game can be played anywhere - at a chilled house party, at a bar, beach days, pre-drink sessions, office parties, junk boats - you name it. It’s a versatile game that can be adapted to a variety of moods, we know this because we’ve tried it out in all these settings!
We did our best to play this game with a variety of audiences. There’s nothing too racy in these cards so it’s appropriate for most settings where drinks are involved.
What are some of your favourite cards in the game?
Go around the room and name as many beaches as you can in Hong Kong. The first person to run out has to do their best rendition of 'Hong Kong Kids' by Skibs.
On the count of 3, point at the person who is most likely to miss their bus stop because they didn't say 'yau lok' loud enough. The person with the most votes has to yell ‘yau lok’ as loudly as they can. Practice makes perfect.
Do your best impression of the MTR voice over. Take 4 sips if your impression is not up to par.
Take a sip if you have the Hong Kong Observatory App on your phone. Take an additional sip for every unread notification you have from the app.
We won’t share any more – play the game and pick your favourite!
Tell me a bit about yourselves and the team behind the game. Have you always been involved in creative fields?
The team behind GetHigh HK includes Jhalak Shah and Trisha Daswani, whilst the face behind 852Prints is Krystal Tolani.
GetHigh HK is a side hustle and creative outlet for Jhalak and Trisha, who work as a banker and a teacher full-time. Their side hustle started off as a passion project while they were at university, which eventually evolved into a business a year ago.
Krystal is a marketer at a remote EdTech startup, but started 852Prints as a creative outlet and way to teach herself graphic design and illustration. In April of 2021, Krystal went part time with her job to spend more time working on 852Prints.
What do you hope for Ride the Minibus? Do you want it to grow? Do you have other projects further down the line?
At the moment, our goal is to spread the game and our love for Hong Kong not only locally but also to Hong Kongers globally.
We have a couple of potential ideas in mind for variations of Ride the Minibus including creating an expansion pack, making a Chinese version or even versions for other cities around the world.
A pack of the Ride the Minibus card game can be purchased at the 852Prints online store. Inside, each pack features a little glossary for HK-specific terms, such as “UAG,” “Bus Mother,” “Sevens,” “Lai See,” and “Hong Kong Kids,” an instruction sheet on how to play, and 150 cards to spark a conversation and drink.
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Forget skyscrapers and vehicle noise — this November, the rhythm of Hong Kong shifts to the sway of palm trees and crashing waves. CT Music Fest Vol. 3 is back, and it’s turning Cheung Chau Island into a sanctuary of sound, art, and open skies. If your soul’s been craving a creative reset, this is your cue.
Hosted at the Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park, CT Music Fest Vol. 3 runs from November 21 to November 23, 2025, offering a curated lineup of live performances, indie film screenings, and immersive art installations. The festival kicks off Friday, Nov. 21 in the evening with an intimate opening set, followed by full-day programs on Saturday and Sunday.
Instagram/ CT Music Festival
Organized by the creative collective Chez Trente, the festival is known for spotlighting emerging talent and alternative voices in Hong Kong’s arts scene.
The first wave of the lineup includes local and international acts, spanning genres from indie rock and funk to jazz fusion and experimental pop.
Featured performers include YELLOW!, Le Groupe Electrogène Fanfare Club, Jonas & Friends, Teenage Riot, Murphy & The Lawyers, Funkee Tung, Swing Pockets, Mr. Koo, Cantomania, Indigo Town, Ivan Sit, and Frankie Lam. With such a diverse roster, expect everything from brass-heavy street grooves to soulful singer-songwriter sets and genre-defying collaborations.
Instagram/ Saiyuen Camping Adventure ParkInstagram/ Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park
Saiyuen’s unique setting adds a layer of adventure to the experience. Attendees can book glamping tents or traditional camping spots to stay on-site, turning the festival into a full weekend retreat. With Cheung Chau’s beaches, hiking trails, and seafood stalls just a short walk away, it’s a rare chance to unplug without leaving the city far behind.
Tickets are available in several tiers via Eventbrite:
Opening Night (Fri): HK$250
Full Festival Pass (Fri–Sun):
Adult: HK$1,360
Young (12–17): HK$1,110
VIP: HK$2,360 (includes free-flow drinks and lounge access)
Single-Day Passes:
Saturday: Adult HK$780 / Young HK$630 / VIP HK$1,280
Sunday: Adult HK$630 / Young HK$530 / VIP HK$1,130
Kids under 12 get in free with an adult
For music lover or those craving a creative escape, CT Music Fest Vol. 3 promises a soulful, sun-soaked weekend that’s chill and electric. Visit CT Music Festival’s official website and Instagram for updates. Meanwhile, follow Chez Trente’s Instagram and Facebook for more events and happenings.
Location: Saiyuen, Cheung Chau, DD CC Lot 12
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This October, Hong Kong welcomes a new kind of Halloween celebration with the launch of SPOOKY Halloween, the city’s first-ever outdoor music carnival dedicated to the season of thrills.
Held at the Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space from October 24 to November 2, 2025, the event spans over 130,000 square feet of immersive entertainment, combining live music, themed attractions, and family-friendly activities in one dynamic waterfront venue.
Courtesy of Klook
Organized by Live Nation Electronic Asia and divided into three distinct zones, SPOOKY Halloween is designed to appeal to both partygoers and casual visitors.
Zones A and B will be open daily throughout the ten-day celebration, featuring a witch-themed carnival, glowing pumpkin fields, illusion mazes, bonfire stages, and interactive games. These areas are ideal for families and casual visitors looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the intensity of the concert crowds.
Instagram/ Steve AokiInstagram/ Zedd
Meanwhile, Zone C hosts the main stage performances, with a lineup of international and local artists performing across two weekends: October 24–26 and October 31–November 2.
The lineup is a genre-blending mix of international and local talent, including global headliners Zedd, Steve Aoki, R3HAB and Rae Sremmurd.
Instagram/ MC CheungInstagram/ Novel Fergus
Local stars such as Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, JW, and Novel Fergus will bring a homegrown pulse to the stage. A special Halloween night performance by Japan’s XG adds extra excitement to the October 31 festivities.
Instagram/ Zedd
Over the last weekend, the SPOOKY Halloween festival arrived with impressive debut performances, proving that Halloween here is about more than just costumes — it's about a total vibe shift. The Wan Chai Harbourfront welcomed a high-energy, nostalgic set from DJ Zedd, creating the ultimate party mood. The crowd got an extra thrill with the appearance from rappers Swae Lee and Slim Jxmmi in their duo, Rae Sremmurd, solidifying the festival's cool credentials and marking a truly exciting moment for the city’s nightlife.
Tickets are available at Klook in multiple tiers to suit different preferences. Admission to both the main stage and carnival zones is priced at HK$680 per day. Visitors who prefer the carnival experience without the concerts can opt for a more affordable ticket: HK$100 for adults, HK$50 for youth aged 6 to 17, and free entry for children under 6. Game tokens are sold separately at HK$20 per play.
For more details of the event, follow their Instagram and Facebook. Meanwhile, you can check out Live Nation Electronic Asia’s website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook for more happenings around Asia.
Location: Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space, 3 Hung Hing Road, Wan Chai
SPOOKY Halloween Wan Chai Harbourfront Event Space Fri, October 24 5:00 PM
- 10:30 PM
Celebrate Halloween at SPOOKY Halloween, Hong Kong’s first-ever music carnival from Oct. 24 to Nov. 2, 2025, at Wan Chai Harbourfront.
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If fake blood and plastic fangs aren’t cutting it this Halloween, how about something permanent? Trick or Ink 2025 is bringing Hong Kong its first-ever tattoo festival inside a shopping mall, and it’s set to leave a lasting impression. From Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 2025, the 3rd and 4th floors of Airside in Kai Tak will transform into a buzzing hub of ink, artistry, and Halloween flair.
Photo from Instagram/ Trick or Ink 2025
With nearly 80 local tattoo artistson-site, the event offers a rare opportunity to get tattooed right there and then, whether you’re booking ahead or walking in for a spontaneous flash piece. Styles range from fine-line minimalism to bold neo-traditional, anime-inspired designs, and dark illustrative work that channels the spooky season. Each artist brings a distinct voice and technique, turning the venue into a living gallery of skin and story.
Beyond the ink, Trick or Ink delivers a full sensory experience. Expect interactive games, prize giveaways, and immersive Halloween decor that turns Airside into a spooky-chic playground for families, friends, and curious passersby. Pop-up booths will showcase merch, artist portfolios, and possibly themed food and drink from local vendors.
Photo from Instagram/Trick or Ink 2025Photo from Instagram/Trick or Ink 2025
Admission is free, making it one of the most accessible art festivals in town. This is a perfect event for tattoo enthusiasts or those curious about Hong Kong’s evolving creative scene to explore body art as both personal expression and cultural celebration.
Organized to spotlight the city’s vibrant tattoo community, Trick or Ink reframes ink from subculture to spotlight, placing it in the heart of a mainstream retail space and aligning it with the playful, transformative spirit of Halloween.
Head to Airside this Halloween and celebrate creativity that lasts far beyond the weekend. For full tattoo artist lineups, follow the Instagram of the event and the organizer.
Location: Airside, 3/F & 4/F, 2 Concorde Road, Kai Tak, Kowloon
Dates: Oct. 31 to Nov. 2, 2025
Opening Hours: 12 PM to 10 PM (Oct. 31), 10 AM to 10 PM (Nov. 1 and 2)
Admission: Free entrance
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In the heart of Hong Kong’s fast-paced urban sprawl, where skyscrapers crowd the skyline and ambition pulses through every street, a quiet revolution has been unfolding — one in the squared circle. Professional wrestling has found a home in the city thanks to a handful of passionate pioneers. At the center of this movement stands Bitman: wrestler, mentor, and president of the Hong Kong Pro-Wrestling Federation (HKWF).
The Beat Asia had a conversation with Bitman ahead of HKWF’s upcoming event on Friday, Oct. 24, 2025, stepping into his world: a high-impact arena of sweat-soaked storytelling, cinematic grit, and grassroots resilience.
Known for his hybrid wrestling style and community-first ethos, Bitman is both a community builder and a ring warrior, shaping Hong Kong’s wrestling identity.
Courtesy of Bitman
As a kid growing up in Hong Kong, Bitman was captivated by the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), now World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and icons like Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair.
“Those larger-than-life characters and the high-stakes drama felt like a live-action comic book,” he recalls. “It was the perfect escape in a city that never slows down like ours.”
That childhood fascination evolved into a calling. In 2009, Bitman stepped into the ring through the newly formed HKWF, training in a modest gym in Fo Tan. Their early shows were humbly held in warehouse venues with just a small group of fans, but the vision was bold.
“What keeps me going is the family we’ve built, the energy of the crowd, mentoring new talent, and showing the world that Hong Kong belongs in the global wrestling conversation. Wrestling isn’t just a job and it’s how I tell stories, with sweat and heart.”
Bitman describes his community as “tighter than a figure-four leglock. Since day one in 2009, we trained together in cramped gyms, shared meals after shows, and supported each other through tough tours.”
Courtesy of HKWFCourtesy of HKWF
The federation's creative approach reflects the city’s cinematic legacy. “HKWF promotes culture by blending athletic spectacle with Hong Kong’s storytelling flair like high-flying moves inspired by our action cinema roots,” Bitman adds. “Beyond the ring, we run workshops, youth programs, and collaborations that help demystify wrestling and turn skeptics into superfans. In a city where space and funding are always tight, HKWF plays a crucial role as the bridge, making wrestling accessible, inclusive, and unmistakably Hong Kong.”
Wrestling in Hong Kong isn’t just about the spectacle, it’s about survival. The city’s high rents and limited space make venues and rings a luxury, forcing collectives like HKWF to get creative. “Space and visibility are the biggest challenges,” Bitman explains. “With Hong Kong’s sky-high rent, rings and venues are expensive, so we often make use of warehouses or shared spaces.”
Courtesy of BitmanCourtesy of Bitman
But it’s not just logistics — it’s perception. “Some locals still see wrestling as ‘fake’ American entertainment, not the athletic art form it really is,” he says. “Building a fanbase takes serious grassroots hustle.”
Without the backing of major TV deals, HKWF relies on ticket sales, sponsors, and sheer passion. “Funding’s tough too because we’re indie at heart,” Bitman adds. “And post-COVID, travel restrictions hit our international tours hard. But these challenges push us to innovate — we’re leaning into online content and pop-up events, turning limitations into the kind of underdog energy that makes HK wrestling raw and real.”
Managing to organize regular events in recent years, this underdog energy was set to shine even brighter this year at “Ring of Harbour” on September 25, HKWF’s first-ever outdoor wrestling showcase at Central Harbourfront’s AIA Vitality Park. The event was designed as a cultural collision of athleticism and international flair, featuring over 20 wrestlers from Mexico, Ireland, India, and Hong Kong. It was also the opening act for “The Latin Kaleidoscope,” a festival hosted by MexCham HK to celebrate Latin American culture in Hong Kong. But nature had other plans — a typhoon forced its postponement, leaving fans and fighters disappointed but undeterred.
Courtesy of HKWF
Now, HKWF is channeling that momentum into its next major event: “Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu,” set for October 24 at Chai Wan’s Youth Square.
“Get ready for fireworks — this clash of titans pits Mexico’s aerial wizards against Japan’s stiff-shot samurai in a dream feud,” Bitman teases. “Expect a stacked card: Opening high-fly tag with Hong Kong’s Outer Space stable against lucha imports for flip-fest frenzy; mid-card grudge where Mikey Man defends his AWGC strap in a puroresu-style ironman bout, building to brutal submissions.”
The storyline is classic invasion of arc gold. “Luchas ‘raiding’ our turf, sparking betrayals and alliances, culminating in a main-event mask-vs.-title war that’s equal parts drama and destruction,” Bitman says. “And yes, there’s a twist: a surprise HK-Japan pact to fend off the invaders. It’s pure adrenaline, with narrative hooks that’ll keep fans buzzing long after the final bell.”
Bitman’s story isn’t just about building a wrestling promotion — it’s about carving out a space for Hong Kong identity in a global sport. Through HKWF, he’s helped transform wrestling from a niche curiosity into a vibrant subculture that blends athleticism, storytelling, and local flavor. From cramped gyms to international partnerships, from typhoon cancellations to packed venues, the journey has been anything but predictable.
Courtesy of HKWF
Yet through it all, Bitman remains grounded in the belief that wrestling is more than entertainment — it’s a mirror of life. The ring becomes a stage for grit, redemption, and community. And as Hong Kong continues to evolve, so too does its wrestling scene, with Bitman leading the charge not just as a performer, but as a mentor, promoter, and cultural architect.
Now, in his own words, Bitman shares more about the people who inspire him, the philosophy behind his craft, and what fans, new and old, can expect from the roar of the ring.
Are there any local wrestlers you particularly admire?
Courtesy of HKWF
Definitely — Jason Lee stands out. He’s a homegrown beast from our early HKWF days, and he’s gone on to hold the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship, wrestling across Japan and beyond. His technical skill and resilience inspire me. He took all the doubt and turned it into gold.
We’re part of a generation that blends grit with charisma, and we’ve helped put Hong Kong on the map. Guys like Jason aren’t just peers — they’re the reason our scene feels solid and unshakable.
If a young person wanted to become a wrestler in Hong Kong, what advice would you give them?
First, commit to the grind.
Start with the basics like push-ups, squats, running. Build your body before you even step into a ring. Find a local gym and get trained the right way; don’t try to wing it or you’ll risk injury.
Study the craft: watch everything from New Japan’s “Strong Style Evolved” to WWE’s storytelling, but adapt it to your own.
Network relentlessly and if you can, train overseas in places in Japan and Taiwan.
Most of all, be patient. We started with 50 fans; now we sell out. Stay humble, respect the ring, and remember — it’s 10% athleticism, 90% heart. Hong Kong needs more dreamers. You could be one of them.
Are there any collaborations or international exchanges that have helped elevate Hong Kong wrestling?
Courtesy of HKWF
Definitely — those partnerships have been game-changers.
Our 2012–2015 collaboration with Japan’s Pro Wrestling ZERO1 brought in technical masters and gave our talent global exposure. Jason Lee, for example, went on to win NWA titles abroad. We’ve also worked with Taiwan’s Impact Wrestling Love, where I defended belts and picked up new high-spot techniques.
More recently, our 2023 alliance with mainland China’s King of Pro Wrestling (KOPW) and INFIN Pro Wrestling opened cross-border talent swaps, blending styles and packing shows with diverse rosters. And our WWE Tryout in 2016 put Hong Kong on the global radar, inspiring a wave of hopefuls. These exchanges aren’t just travel as they evolved our style, infusing puroresu stiffness, lucha flair, and everything in between into our unique HK hybrid.
Wrestling blends athleticism and storytelling — how do you personally navigate that balance?
Courtesy of Bitman
It's like directing your own action movie — half athleticism, half storytelling, but the story always drives the stunts.
Physically, I drill every move to perfection. High-flying spots need to land clean to keep the drama alive without breaking the moment. But the real magic is in the emotional arc.
A grudge match isn’t just about chops but betrayal, redemption, and giving the crowd that cathartic release. I build those beats into promos that reflect real emotions like channeling Hong Kong’s hustle into underdog fire. If the story doesn’t land, the athleticism feels empty. If the moves don’t pop, the story drags. So I listen to my opponent in the ring and the crowd’s energy. That’s the balance. That’s why wrestling grabs you — it’s life, amplified in the ring.
Do you think Hong Kong’s wrestling culture leans more toward performance or real combat? How does it compare to places like Mexico, Japan, or the U.S.?
Courtesy of Bitman
Hong Kong leans heavily into performance, almost like a martial arts opera. You’ll see flashy flips and character-driven brawls that echo our kung fu film heritage, but the combat is choreographed and designed for spectacle, not pain.
Compared to Mexico’s lucha libre, we’re like cousins: both love aerial moves and masked personas, but lucha is rooted in family-feud folklore, with clear lines between heroes and villains. Japan’s puroresu is our stiff uncle — brutal and strong style, heavy psychology, and strikes that feel like thunder. Then there’s the U.S. WWE scene, which is all about big promos, pyros, and soap-opera drama.
Hong Kong’s style is our own remix with performance at the core but borrowing Japan’s intensity and Mexico’s flair to create a unique East-meets-West pulse.
How do you prepare yourself for each match, both mentally and physically?
Physically, it’s all about ritual. I start my mornings with cardio, usually runs along Victoria Harbour to clear my head, then hit afternoon weights, focusing on core strength and explosiveness. After that, it’s ring drills with partners to fine-tune timing and flow.
My diet stays clean with high-protein dim sum twists like steamed fish and greens, and absolutely no junk before a show.
Mentally, I visualize the match like a story as I replay the arc in my head, use affirmations like “Own the narrative,” and listen to a quiet playlist of old-school WWE and New Japan themes to lock in. Right before the bell, I take deep breaths, chat with my opponent to build chemistry, and soak in the crowd’s energy. It’s a full-body, full-mind prep.
Win or lose, I step into that ring feeling unbreakable.
What do you think is the most important quality for a wrestler?
Courtesy of BitmanCourtesy of Bitman
Adaptability, hands down. The ring is unpredictable with slippery mats, off-night crowds, last-minute changes to the card. You’ve got to pivot fast without losing the story. That’s what separates the survivors from the stars.
Look at Ho Ho Lun, who went from indie basements to WWE spotlights, or Jason Lee, who switches styles seamlessly across borders. Physiques fade, moves evolve, but that chameleon instinct keeps you safe, sharp, and relevant. In Hong Kong’s ever-shifting scene, adaptability is useful and essential.
How has the local audience evolved over the years? Are you seeing more engagement or new types of fans?
It’s been a complete transformation.
Back in 2009, we had maybe 50 curious skeptics. Now we’re drawing 500+ passionate fans who chant, cheer, and know the storylines. Social media’s played a huge role — Instagram clips of our high spots go viral and pull in Gen Z gamers and pop culture fans who love the drama.
Families show up now too — kids in masks, parents reliving their ‘80s WWF memories. Since the WWE buzz hit Hong Kong, we’ve seen more expats and tourists, plus fans crossing over from mainland China thanks to our partnerships with KOPW and INFIN.
Engagement is through the roof: Cantonese chants, fan art, even merch collabs. It’s a diverse crowd now with office workers, students and creatives — and that evolution feels like victory.
What aspects in a wrestling event do you think audiences in Hong Kong enjoy the most?
Courtesy of HKWF
It’s the spectacle with heart. Our fans love high-flying chaos like moonsaults off cages and wild dives, but what really hooks them are the stories behind the action. Rivalries that echo Hong Kong’s hustle and grit make it personal.
Our crowds love the interactive vibe: Singalongs to entrance themes, “This is awesome” pops for near-falls, and post-show meets where we sign merch over bubble tea. Cultural touches like dim sum jokes or neon-lit entrances give it that local flavor. At the end of the day, it’s the escape in a high-pressure city, that communal roar turns strangers into a roaring family.
What can first-time attendees expect from your next event? Any surprises or standout matches?
Courtesy of HKWF
Energy overload — like a live HK action flick, but you’re ringside! Expect vibrant chaos: Colorful masks, thunderous chops, and dives that defy gravity, all in a packed venue pulsing with Cantonese cheers.
First-timers? Grab seats early for the full immersion — that electric pre-bell hush and the hype on the next second.
Standouts: The main lucha-puro hybrid tag, flair meets fury in a 20-minute epic, blending technical locks with quebradas. It’s welcoming, wild, and unforgettable. Come hungry for the roar!
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Secure your ticket for "Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu" via POPTICKET while they're still available.
Follow Bitman on Instagram for personal updates on wrestling, and HKWF's Instagram and Facebook for event updates. Meanwhile, event highlights can be viewed on HKWF's YouTube channel.
Shin Squared Circle: Lucha Libre VS Puroresu
Date: Friday, October 24, 2025
Entrance: 7PM
Location: Chai Wan’s Youth Square, 238 Chai Wan Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
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It’s not every day you get inked between bites of grilled skewers and sips — but in Hong Kong, subculture knows no boundaries. On October 26, 2025 one of the city’s most stylish culinary-art crossovers returns: the Golden Gip x CENSU Crew Flash Tattoo Pop-Up, now in its third edition.
Hosted at Golden Gip, a modern Korean-inspired dai pai dong on Wellington Street, this one-day-only event fuses gourmet bites, body art, and subcultural energy into a multi-sensory experience.
Instagram/ Golden Gip
This year’s lineup features six renowned tattoo artists from Hong Kong and Japan, including Yeeki Lo, Shigeo Kimura, New School Art, Who’s nosey, Gentaro, and Megumu.
Instagram/ Shigeo Kimura & New School Art
Each artist will offer pre-designed flash tattoos, available on a first-come, first-served basis, so guests can walk away with fresh ink and a story to tell. Expect styles ranging from delicate linework to bold neo-traditional pieces.
Meanwhile, Golden Gip's kitchen, helmed by Head Chef Nigel Kim, will serve up a culinary journey with canapés and a complimentary drink for guests to complement the edgy, art-forward atmosphere. The venue’s interior, designed by Studio C8, blends wabi-sabi minimalism with nostalgic neon, turning the space into a visual feast.
Instagram/ Golden Gip
Tickets are priced at HK$300 per person, which includes a drink, food, and a special gift for all attendees. The event runs from 12PM to 9PM. While walk-ins may be accepted, advance booking is highly recommended.
This is your chance to experience one of Hong Kong’s most expressive pop-ups, where ink meets local food culture, and every detail is designed to leave a mark.
Consuming alcohol before can thin your blood, increase sensitivity, and even affect healing. If you’re planning to get tattooed at the pop-up, it’s strongly recommended to hold off on alcohol before and after your session.
Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025
Location: Golden GIP, 41 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
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It’s been seven years since Hong Kong last hosted Asia’s most electrifying music event, and now, the wait is over. The 2025 MAMA Awards, the region’s premier K-pop celebration, is making its grand return to the city with a two-night celebration on November 28 and 29 at the newly opened 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium.
Courtesy of VISA
Presented by CJ ENM and sponsored by Visa, this year’s MAMA Awards promise a full-scale sensory experience that includes jaw-dropping performances, dazzling visuals, and appearances from some of the biggest names in K-pop.
The awards span a wide range of categories, from Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Album of the Year, to genre-specific honors like Best Dance Performance, Best Vocal Performance, and Best Rap & Hip Hop Performance.
Instagram/ MAMA AwardsInstagram/ MAMA Awards
This year’s nominations reflect both global dominance and fresh talent. Superstars like aespa, BABYMONSTER, and ZEROBASEONE are up for awards, while rising acts such as Hearts2Hearts, CORTIS, and BabyDONTCry are making their MAMA debut with nods in the Best New Artist category. The awards also include fan-voted categories, giving international audiences a direct voice in the celebration.
The ticketing rollout is choreographed. Fans can choose from a wide range of seating options, with prices starting at HK$899 and climbing to HK$2,599 for premium seats with dedicated entry lanes. A limited Blind Ticket Sale opened on September 30, offering early access to front-row seats on a first-come, first-served basis.
Visa cardholders enjoy exclusive presale access via Cityline:
Visa Infinite Presale: October 17, 10 AM–2 PM
Visa Presale: October 17, 6PM – October 18, 2 PM
General Sale: October 20, 10AM HKT
With Hong Kong’s skyline as the backdrop and Kai Tak Stadium as the stage, this event marks a new chapter in the city’s relationship with global pop culture. It’s a celebration of music, fandom, and the power of performance to unite across borders.
Location: Kai Tak Stadium, 38-39 Shing Kai Road, Kowloon City, Kowloon, Hong Kong
2025 MAMA AWARDS (마마 어워즈) in Hong Kong Kai Tak Stadium Fri, November 28 4:00 PM
onwards
Celebrate the best in K-pop at the 2025 MAMA Awards on Nov. 28-29, 2025, at Kai Tak Stadium, Hong Kong.
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In a quiet corner of Hong Kong, Allex Chan began crafting songs in a space so small it could barely contain the weight of his emotions. That space, Room307, was both literal and symbolic: a bedroom, a cocoon, and eventually, a name that would carry his music far beyond its walls.
The indie artist started releasing music under the name Room307 in 2017, uploading lo-fi sketches made on GarageBand to platforms like SoundCloud. His debut eponymous EP, Room307, arrived in 2021 via Wildstyle Records, a Hong Kong-based indie label known for spotlighting experimental and emotionally raw voices. Though his sound leaned more toward dream pop and ambient textures than the label’s usual rap roster, the creative exchange helped shape his early identity, one that blurred genre, language, and emotional tone.
The Beat Asia sat down with Room307 before his performance for "M+ at Night: Good Times" in September, stepping into his world: a lo-fi dreamscape of whispered narratives, retro and psychedelic visuals, and emotional honesty. Known for his layered songwriting and nostalgic aesthetic, Room307 is both a visual and a sonic storyteller.
Through a conversation that drifted from chrysanthemum tea metaphors to punk alter ego in N.Y.P.D., and the emotional weight of healing, he opened up about his dual life as a musician and Chinese medicine practitioner, the making of his 2025 debut album Memory Boy, and the quiet rebellion of choosing softness. What unfolded was a meditation on self-expression, growth, and the art of listening with intention.
Instagram/ Room307
“I’m deeply honored to bring my music from the room to different countries and museums,” Room307 reflects on his journey. “I hope I can continue to reach more people down the road, from one big room to the world.”
By day, Allex works in a Chinese medicine clinic. By night, he crafts songs that soothe emotional wounds. To him, these roles aren’t opposites because they’re reflections of the same impulse: to feel deeply and help others do the same.
Instagram/ Room307
“Everything I do, including being a Chinese medicine practitioner, is part of who I am,” he answers on whether there's a version of him that only exists when he's making music.
“I'm always diagnosing people’s symptoms and sickness, which requires a deep sensitivity to what people need. So, I think this ability translates into my music because music is also about evoking emotion and connecting with people on a sensitive level.”
Whether he’s diagnosing physical ailments or layering ambient synths beneath vocals, Room307 is always listening, to the body, to the mood, and to the silence between sounds, proving that the sensitivity does run through all his work.
Instagram/ N.Y.P.D.
And yet, there’s another side to him. As the guitarist and synthwave artist of post-punk band N.Y.P.D., Allex channels a completely different energy that’s much louder, rawer, more chaotic. But this shift isn’t a contradiction but it’s a duality.
“It’s also me because I listen to lots of different genres like ambient, rock, and punk,” he says. “Based on my hardware, I can’t really sing loud or hardcore, so I put this personality into N.Y.P.D., which is the expression of my energy. Punk music is just so straightforward, but my own music is more like talking to my inner self. People can have two faces, right? So that’s how I can satisfy both of my faces — the introverted one and the angry one.”
Instagram/ N.Y.P.D.
That duality plays out not just in sound, but in performance. With N.Y.P.D., he has recently taken the stage at Boiler Room Hong Kong, channeling punk’s visceral immediacy. In contrast, his solo work invites listeners into a quieter space, one where emotions unfold slowly, like a whispered confession.
This ability to inhabit multiple emotional landscapes is part of what makes Room307 so compelling. Instead of choosing between softness and rage, he honors both and give them a voice.
Instagram/ Room307
This is echoed in his debut full-length album, Memory Boy. The title comes from the first guitar effects pedal he ever bought: a delay pedal that repeats sound in soft, echoing loops. It’s a fitting metaphor for the way his music lingers: subtle at first, then emotionally resonant on repeat, emphasizing how he’s both a bedroom producer and an emotional architect.
“I would describe it as chrysanthemum tea because it helps you relax,” he says when asked to describe the new album with a type of herbal tea. “It soothes and eases the tension of your liver, allowing your mind and senses to stretch out.”
While Room307 handled most of his songs' lyrics, composition, and production himself, the album marked a rare moment of collaboration. Co-produced by Kok Kok (曾國宏) of Sunset Rollercoaster and mixed by James Fouren, the album added polish to his signature lo-fi textures without compromising their intimacy.
The Beat Asia
Another meaningful creative relationship behind the album is with Akira Mimasu, drummer of Hong Kong’s groove-jazz band R.I.D.D.E.M. Their connection began years ago, when Room307 first uploaded his music to SoundCloud.
“Originally, you know, it’s Room307 in his bedroom,” Akira recalls. “And then when he released his first cassette, it [had] quite a good reception. And when I saw that, I thought ‘Wow! This guy’s making great music,’ so I just hit him up and I said, ‘Yo, if you need a drummer, hit me up.’”
That casual offer evolved into a long-standing creative exchange. Akira contributed drums and flute to his tracks, and Room307 welcomed collaborators into his process, though he still prefers to work solo.
“I handle almost everything by myself because I don’t want to burden others,” he admits. “Especially since I can’t always compensate financially.”
Courtesy of M+Courtesy of M+
Even so, the spirit of collaboration helped shape Memory Boy into something more expansive. It’s a shared emotional language built with trust and mutual respect.
“The story I wrote based on the lyrics is fictional; most of it is imagination,” Room307 explains. “However, I infuse genuine emotions into the imagined story. When performing, I’m immersed in the soul of that character.”
That blend of fiction and feeling is what gives Memory Boy and his earlier releases their emotional weight, telling something that isn’t confessional but feels true, relatable, and emotional honest. And that honesty extends to how he hopes listeners engage with his music.
“You can enjoy it as a background music,” he says. “You can also do nothing and try to explore the details within each track. My music contains many layers but sometimes it takes careful attention to uncover.”
“For the second time beyond, you can try to concentrate more deeply, discovering new textures like a different version and for a different sensation.”
Courtesy of M+The Beat Asia
In Room307’s world, music isn’t just something you hear but also something you return to, again and again, each time uncovering a new musical and emotional layer.
That’s why his recent performance at M+, alongside mainstream artists, felt like a meaningful moment because it was a bridge between underground intimacy and public visibility.
“I think it’s really important for us to play in occasions like this because, in the indie music scene, we often don’t have budget for marketing and promotion,” he says. “Opportunities like this are rare, but sometimes, I mean the best marketing is simply putting your work out there, letting people experience your music to connect and surprise them, especially for those who might not have heard it before.”
Your different works speak to very different emotional landscapes, and you’ve also performed across cultural textures. Has moving between these identities and places ever shifted how you create?
Instagram/ Room307
When we are touring, it’s valuable to meet a lot of artists and musicians. We have a lot of discussions, and we share how we each create and exchange ideas. I think this process is really important for an artist because it provides perspectives. When you play different genres in different locations and meet a variety of people, you naturally encounter new influences. And if you’re open to these experiences, they can have a positive impact on your growth.
How important is it for someone’s thoughts or memories to have an outlet for expression? How would you suggest people express themselves?
The Beat Asia
It’s definitely important for everyone to have some kind of outlet. When I was making this album, I didn’t think too much and simply focused on doing things that I could really feel and enjoy.
I’m not mature enough to be a mentor or to teach someone exactly how to express themselves. I’m still a young person figuring things out, like discovering the best way to express emotions and understand how things work. But I’d say music is one of the ways and activities like sports or other hobbies can also help.
What role does nostalgia play in shaping your aesthetic choices?
I’m not really trying to be too retro, but since I was born in the ’90s, the movies I watched and music I listened to definitely shaped my aesthetic. I’m creating something to blend the aesthetic from that time with some modern music too.
There’s a band called Yellow Magic Orchestra, which is Ryuichi Sakamoto’s work, that really inspired me. The way they make music is kind of similar to the way I create to an extent.
What’s the most unexpected reaction a listener has ever shared with you?
People seldom comment on my music because my audience tends to be too introverted and they don’t talk to me.
But one of the most frequent responses I hear is, ‘Your music really heals my schizophrenia or my mental health problems.’
I feel genuinely happy knowing that my music can soothe people’s emotions. Sometimes, I enjoy working in music more than my work as a Chinese medicine practitioner, because in the music industry, I can be more helpful.
Your past music videos are visually striking, creative, and occasionally psychedelic. How do you and your team come up with those concepts?
The Beat Asia
I've always been inspired by psychedelic music as well as glam rock.
The aesthetics in these genres are often linked to subcultures and altered states of perception influenced by drugs. It’s the aesthetic they bring out that have had a strong influence of my creative approach.
These subcultural elements shaped my perspective and made me want to bring them into the Hong Kong scene, allowing audiences to experience that sense of the unexpected.
Will there be any music videos released for Memory Boy and what can we expect?
Instagram/ Room307
We did shoot in Japan, but I’m still finalizing the editing and the color grading. I don’t have very high expectation of the video, but putting out something that I love is in itself enough. The storyline and set design turned out really cool.
We filmed in a grassy field somewhere near Mount Fuji, where we dug a large hole and built something inside it. That’s about all I can share for now.
Courtesy of Room307
Following the release of the album, Allex isn’t chasing the next big moment but building something slower — something that lasts.
“It won’t be anything extremely surprising,” he says. “But the plan is to slowly release new music. I hope to have a long music career, so I’m just trying not to shock anyone and just keep a gradual workflow.”
That philosophy extends to touring, too. He’s already begun writing his next album and hopes to take it on the road.
“We’ve been wanting to tour in Taiwan and China. We’re trying to figure things out because you need a long set, at least half an hour,” he explains. “So we keep working on that until we’re feeling ready and confident. Hopefully, it will happen soon.”
Meanwhile, his punk project N.Y.P.D. is gearing up for their Southeast Asia Tour in Malaysia, Singapore, and Bangkok from Oct 30 to Nov 5. Follow them on Instagram for more updates.
Room307’s journey, from a bedroom in Hong Kong to museum stages and beyond, isn’t about spectacle. It’s about staying true to feeling, to softness, and to the kind of art that whispers and shouts at the same time.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Up-and-Coming articles here.
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Shi Fu Miz Festival, Hong Kong’s pioneering celebration of underground music, art, and sustainability, returns on March 21, 2026, with a new venue, a new format, and a renewed sense of purpose.
After a one-year hiatus, the beloved cultural gathering reemerges at Tai Tong Organic EcoPark for a one-day experience blending electronic music, creative expression, and community spirit filled with wellbeing, while the opening party is set to take place a night prior.
Photo from Website/ Shi Fu MizPhoto from Website/ Shi Fu Miz
Located in the tranquil valley of Tai Tong village, just ten minutes from Yuen Long, the EcoPark spans over a million square feet of farmland and lychee forests, having long been a destination for leisure and recreation among local communities.
Now, it becomes the venue for Shi Fu Miz’s next chapter, offering expansive natural surroundings and a deeper connection to the land. The 2026 edition will feature three distinct stages: the Feng Shui Stage, set outdoors on a grass field with a spiritual atmosphere; the Warehouse Stage, an indoor space with raw, industrial energy; and the Dragon Stage, which brings a traditional Asian aesthetic to life in an intimate indoor setting.
Photo from Website/ Shi Fu Miz
This marks a notable shift from previous editions held at Saiyuen Camping Adventure Park on Cheung Chau Island, where the festival sprawled across multiple open-air zones, forest paths, and beachside installations. The island’s bohemian charm and ferry-accessed remoteness gave the event a sense of escapism and adventure.
In contrast, Tai Tong offers greater accessibility and logistical flexibility, but with a more streamlined setup, downscaling to three stages, and condensing the experience into a single day. While the scale may be reduced, the intention remains: to create a space where music, nature, and community converge.
Photo from Website/ Shi Fu Miz
The weekend kicks off with an opening night on Mar. 20, 2026 at 宀 Club in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong’s iconic underground venue, setting the tone for a weekend of deep grooves and cultural connection.
Founded by FuFu Asia and La Mamie’s, Shi Fu Miz has built a reputation for curating eclectic sounds, from bass to house to techno and beyond, while championing wellness, sustainability, and artistic exploration. The move to Tai Tong reflects the festival’s continued commitment to environmental consciousness and immersive experiences.
Tickets for Shi Fu Miz Festival 2026 are now officially on sale via TIKS Asia. The Early Access Ticket is priced at HK$508 and requires arrival before 2 PM, while late entry will incur an upgrade fee to the standard door rate. The Student Access Ticket, also HK$508, is available to attendees aged 12 to 23, with free entry for children under 12. All under-18 attendees must be accompanied by a guardian and present a valid ID. The First Release General Admission is priced at HK$588, offering flexible entry throughout the day.
For more information and line-up announcement, stay tuned to Shi Fu Miz’s website, Instagram, and Facebook.
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The biggest impressions of Pink Dot, one of the most beloved LGBTQ+ celebrations in Asia, must be its sea of pink, the laughter, the music, and the unmistakable feeling of community.
And this year in Hong Kong, the biggest annual event of its kind is taking a different route — one that leads straight to your living room. Pink Dot Hong Kong 2025 is going fully online, transforming its signature outdoor carnival into a vibrant digital concert on Nov. 2, 2025 from 3 PM to 6 PM.
Photo from Website/Pink Dot HK
The shift to a virtual format comes after organizers were unable to secure their usual venue at the Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District. While the details behind the venue denial remain undisclosed, the team behind Pink Dot has chosen to focus forward, embracing the opportunity to reach audiences wherever they are. And judging by the lineup, they’re doing it with style.
This year’s concert features a dynamic mix of artists who embody the spirit of pride and inclusion.
Photo from Instagram/On ChanPhoto from Instagram/Marf Yau
Leading the charge are event ambassadors Marf Yau, from the girl group COLLAR, and On Chan of C AllStar — two voices that have long championed diversity in Hong Kong’s music scene. They’ll be joined by a star-studded lineup of performers, including Terence Siufay, Cath Wong, Zeno, Billy Choi, Kira Chan, J.Arie, Andy Lin, and Higgo Raj. Hosting duties will be handled by the ever-charming Bonnie Wong (Ah Jeng) and Joe Wong, ensuring the show flows with warmth, wit, and plenty of pink sparkle.
Since its Hong Kong debut in 2014, the event has grown into the city’s largest LGBTQ+ gathering. The team works year-round to promote visibility, support the queer community, and foster inclusion through workshops, outreach, and cultural programming. Their efforts extend beyond the stage, creating safe spaces and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.
Photo from Instagram/Pink Dot HKPhoto from Instagram/Pink Dot HK
While the absence of a physical venue may feel like a loss, the digital format opens new doors. Viewers from across Hong Kong and beyond can tune in, celebrate, and show their support. And with Pink Dot actively exploring new venue options for future editions, there’s hope that the pink glow will return to the city’s skyline soon.
As pride comes home, mark your calendar and get ready to celebrate love in all its forms with three hours of love going online. Join the celebration online via this link.
Don’t forget to visit Pink Dot’s website and follow their Instagram and Facebook for more information and updates.
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Canadian rapper and singer bbno$ (pronounced “baby no money”) is bringing the third leg of his world tour “It’s Pronounced baby no money” to Asia this November 2025, taking him to Singapore, Hong Kong, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo.
bbno$ is set to kick off the third leg of his tour in Australia on Oct. 31, touring Australia and New Zealand until his first stop in Asia in Singapore on Nov. 12. This will be followed by Hong Kong on Nov.13, Taipei, Seoul, and Tokyo, before wrapping up this leg with a show in São Paolo on Nov. 22.
“It’s Pronounced Baby No Money” in Hong Kong
Instagram/ Live Nation Hong Kong
Following his successful debut in Hong Kong at Clockenflap in 2024, bbno$ is returning to Hong Kong for his first event at TIDES, the newly opened entertainment space at Whampoa.
Alexander Leon Gumuchian, professionally known as bbno$ first gained fame following the release of his TikTok viral hits “Lalala” with Y2K and “Edamame” with Rich Brian. Since then, he has released more tracks like “Mathematics,” “It Boy,” “Antidepressants,” “C'est la Vie,” and “Mary Poppins.”
Recently, he made his Philippine debut at the &FRIENDS Festival, where he took the stage in an Ironmouse cosplay and performed his then-unreleased track with the VTuber “1-800” to the crowd.
Instagram/ bbno$
Tickets now available via Live Nation priced at HKD$599 for an all-standing show.
For more information and updates, follow Live Nation Hong Kong on Facebook and Instagram.
Listen to the bbno$ “It’s Pronounced baby no money” Concert setlist here:
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