Hollywood Road is fast becoming a centre of attraction thanks to discerning collectors fuelling demand for rare Chinese pieces
With the mainland emerging as an economic powerhouse and the Beijing Olympics in the international spotlight, items with a Chinese touch have suddenly become objects of desire, especially antiques.
Antique traders in Hong Kong have been enjoying growing business as the central government has relaxed regulations allowing authentic Chinese antiques that are less than 50 years old to be shipped outside of Hong Kong, tax-free.
Aficionados of Chinese antiques will be amazed at the many antique and furniture shops, art galleries and curio stores lining both sides of Hollywood Road. Competition may seem fierce in this niche retail business, but every operator serves clients who are after something unique.
'We're not competing with anybody because we sell to discerning collectors,' said Oi Ling, owner of Oi Ling Antiques, which has been open for 15 years and specialises in high-end antiques, including furniture and pottery.
'On Hollywood Road there are two types of antique shops - one is a decorator antique shop that sells pieces that aren't really special; they cater to tourists because the price range is very different. And the other [type of antique shop, like us, sells authentic antiques],' said Ms Ling, who sources her antiques directly from international collectors.