Situated in Justice Drive in Admiralty, the former Explosives Magazine complex of the Victoria Barracks was where the British Forces made explosive and sent off to military bases around Hong Kong after packaging. This is the only intact explosives magazine complex in Asia from the British colonial era, which is why this site is of great military and historic value.
Four buildings in total, built between 1843 to 1930 and erected in 2 levels, were returned to the Hong Kong government in 1979 along with the Barracks. They were used as government offices and warehouses afterwards. The GG block was used as payroll office for finance branch of the British Army, and storage for rock core sample for the Geotechnical Engineering Office.
The compound was abandoned in the 80s until 2005, when the government rented the area to Asia Society Hong Kong Center with a nominal fee of $1000 as their permanent address. It was renovated in the same year. From 2012, the center has been open to public and for the use of schools and organizations. After restoration, the center houses world-class exhibition hall, stage with high-quality theatrical facilities, conference rooms and dining halls that can be used for lectures, performances, exhibitions and film screenings, to promoted culture, art and education of Asia countries.
The unique feature of the center lies in its compatibility with historic sites and modern buildings. Former military buildings and Grade I historic buildings including Chantal Miller Gallery, Miller Theater, Starr-Greenberg Building now had been transformed into exhibition space and theatrical facilities. These historical buildings and reconstructed facilities are of great historical value, allowing the public to see the appearance and layout of former magazine.
In addition to the historical buildings, the modern buildings in the center are worthy visiting. These modern buildings including The Hong Kong Jockey Club Hall, Joseph Lau & Josephine Lau Roof Garden, Lippo Amphitheater, Doubled-decked Bridge. Visitors can enjoy the scenes of lush green and urban jungle of Admiralty among these facilities. Enjoying a dinner at the bar restaurant AMMO is a good choice to spend time with friends, too.
Address: 9 Justice Drive, Admiralty, Hong Kong
Opening Hours and Transportation
Reference
Asia Society Hong Kong
