Should Hong Kong Create Its Own Mega Diagonal Crossing like Shibuya? Here’s Why It Might Be Time.

How about a Hong Kong mega-crossing for video shareable iconography and everyday efficiency that rivals Tokyo? Here’s how.

For years in Central, we’ve been using an informal diagonal crossing method in at least two places. It might be questionable in law, but many people do it, and unless they’re unlucky enough to be tickete,d it seems to work well. So, could this be the moment for the city to finally embrace it?

A fun, iconic diagonal crossing like Shibuya’s could be an easy win for Hong Kong in terms of global recognition and tourist-friendly urban design. I’m not 100 per cent sure where the best location(s) would be, but surely one or two spots in the city could work; our new tourism team could draw up a shortlist.

We are already on the right path as the Transport Department has reportedly released positive trial results from test sites in Sha Tin and Tsim Sha Tsui; crossings all over Hong Kong could be evaluated and upgraded where possible, not just for pedestrian flow but also for potential tourism impact.

So, congratulations to the Transport Department and the Hong Kong government for moving forward with something that Tokyo knows works.

Creating an amazing city for residents and tourists means building visually dynamic, walkable environments that people want to use, film, photograph, and share. It’s not just about mega-events. If we can boost basic pedestrian efficiency and create a visually exciting street-level visual impact at the same time, that will be a huge win at a relatively low cost.

We can move quickly on many low-cost innovations at the street level. I’ve previously suggested things like re-inventing disused hawker stalls, micro food trucks and more. Let’s add a new pedestrian icon to that list. A properly designed Hong Kong diagonal crossing could rival Shibuya’s long-standing symbol of modernity and dynamism.

If you need input regarding a strategic Hong Kong challenge or related legal matters in the HKSAR, you can always DM me and check out my profile at https://www.ajhalkes.com

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