The building on the right is the Yue Hwa Chinese Emporium in Chinatown. It's beside The Majestic building (I blogged about that building earlier so you may read if you wish). Its merchandise are all Chinese products including ointment, an assortment of Chinese tea leaves, Chinese wines, Chinese embroidery, etc. Frankly Chinese emporiums have become quite rare and arcane and seem to be going the way of the dinosaur, since the draw is to contemporary, swanky Western brands. So a trip to Yue Hwa is either a touristy or a nostalgic jaunt for Chinese souvenirs.
Its history is something to crow about. Built in 1936, it was formerly the Great Southern Hotel, a magnet for Chinese tycoons who kept mistresses. It served as a brothel and opium den. Then the tallest Chinese-run hotel and the first to be outfitted with a lift, it was the place to party for the Chinese upper classes.For more That's my world pictures, go here
This place sure has an interesting history and when I enlarged the photo there is so much more to notice. The other two buildings in the first picture look very interesting too.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful place.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
Visit my world @ Now and Then
Love that old building, nice shot.
ReplyDeleteHave a great week
Guy
Regina In Pictures
I love old buildings for they tell some immortal tales. Good Job.
ReplyDeleteFascinating to see into other parts of the world so different to my own.
ReplyDeleteI like this kind of nostalgia trips. If they are used every day then even better.
ReplyDeleteWhat a pity I was not aware of its most colourful history when we were there! Thanks for the revelations.
ReplyDelete