Vol. 1 The Neon Signs of Hong Kong

Together with Japan, Hong Kong has the greatest concentration of neon signs anywhere in the world. The downtown area of Kowloon in particular has a higher density of neon signs than even Tokyo. But even so, in proportion to the bustle of the streets, the neon signs seem somehow lacking in sparkle and brilliance. This is because there are no flashing signs. The total land area of Hong Kong is around half that of Tokyo. The only international airport in Hong Kong is located right next to the center of the city, and flashing lights are forbidden because they might distract pilots coming in to land. A visit to Hong Kong makes one aware of the highly significant role played by flashing in the presentation of neon lights.





1998 Copyright (c) All Japan Neon-Sign Association