Hong Kong's XXX Gallery reopens tonight in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s all encompassing music, arts and everything creative venue, aptly labeled XXX, is officially reopening its doors tonight in Tai Kok Tsui.

This will be the beloved underground venue’s third home since 2011 and despite always remaining one step ahead of trends, while being intentionally designed to not be trendy at all, gentrification has pushed the venue across the harbor this time.

Many might consider this move bold considering much of Hong Kong’s hustle and bustle happens on the island, but XXX owner DJ Enso disagrees and feels that Kowloon is exactly where he wants to be.

“When we first opened years back in Sheung Wan, some people said at the time, wow that's so far away. Same thing when we were in Sai Wan. But now, I have to say the scene has developed a lot and there is a real thirst to try something new,” he said in a chat with Mixmag Asia. “Get out of your bubble and see the real Central Hong Kong – ‘Central’ ain’t central no more – LKF (Lan Kwai Fong) is imploding.”

The new space will continue to operate similarly to how it has in the past and carrying on with its flagship nights. Look out for Future Dancehall (reggae/dancehall /d'n'b), KΞΞP IT $ƱRRΞΔL (bass/club), Afro City (African), Crew Love (hip-hop/r'n'b/soul), Wall of Sound (50s/60s pop), Hong Kong Babies (all HK-produced music) and the XXX Movie Club (film screenings). Of course art is big part of the establishments reason for being and a private vernissage was already held last night for the venues soft opening. Expect to see gallery installations on the regular.

One big change though is the reintroduction of an old tradition – its BYOB drink policy. This should make both Hongkongers and local 711s immensely happy, considering a drink on Hong Kong island can cost you as much as 100HKD ($13) or more. This should also serve as a reminder to stock up on your way as there is really no bar, but there is a 711 two blocks away.

Of course XXX isn’t for everybody so process with caution if you're high heeled and committing your weekend to Kowloon. Enso describes it as a non-commercial space for an open-minded crowd that is coming for the music, not models and bottles. And according to Facebook, he's amassed over 300,000 open-minded fans over the years, believe it. He says XXX offers its patrons a chance to see new and cutting edge dance music from local and international producers.

“It’s for those looking for something alternative, something gritty and real.”

Check out XXX Gallery on Facebook or website for more information and directions.