Cover Travel to creative hubs in Asia, like Ssamziegil in South Korea, where culture and art come to life. (Photo: Maggie Adan)
Travel to creative hubs in Asia, like Ssamziegil in South Korea, where culture and art come to life. (Photo: Maggie Adan)
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More than museums—these travel-worthy destinations are where Asia’s art and culture come alive
Asia’s creative scene is thriving, fuelled by a new generation of artists, designers and curators who are transforming once-forgotten spaces into vibrant cultural travel destinations. Across the region, heritage buildings are being reimagined as galleries, concept stores and creative playgrounds that blur the lines between art, design and everyday life. From the industrial charm of Taipei’s Huashan 1914 to the youthful buzz of Seoul’s Ssamziegil and the community spirit of Cebu’s Atúa Midtown, these hubs are living reflections of Asia’s evolving cultural identity.
Whether you’re a design enthusiast or simply looking to add depth to your next travel experience, these creative enclaves across Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, the Philippines and beyond reveal how culture and travel intersect in the most inspiring ways.
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Huashan 1914 Creative Park (Taipei, Taiwan)
A former Japanese wine distillery turned creative park, Huashan was restored and repurposed thanks to the efforts of theatre groups and local artists who used the abandoned buildings as informal performance spaces and lobbied for its restoration.
Today, it’s a vibrant, creative hub where history and Taipei’s thriving art scene converge. A true multi-functional hub, its historic brick buildings house independent boutiques and quirky cafés, stylish restaurants and bars that make it a favourite cultural stop for design-minded travellers. Visitors can enjoy pop-ups, design fairs and creative markets, where independent designers and artisans sell unique, handcrafted items, perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Ssamziegil (Seoul, South Korea)
Above Ssamziegil is where traditional Korean crafts are reimagined with a playful, modern twist. (Photo: Maggie Adan)
Ssamziegil is where traditional Korean crafts are reimagined with a playful, modern twist. (Photo: Maggie Adan)
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Located in Insadong, Seoul’s storied cultural district, Ssamziegil is an open-air shopping complex home to a curated collection of shops featuring handmade crafts, contemporary art and unique creations by homegrown artists and artisans. Buzzing with youthful energy, Ssamziegil is where traditional Korean crafts are reimagined with a playful, modern twist.
Walk up the spiral walkway to explore all four levels, where you can expect to find cute, quirky and cleverly designed items—perfect as charming souvenirs for anyone looking to bring a creative touch to their travel mementos.
See also: 7 must-see neighbourhoods in Seoul for every traveller
Tai Kwun (Hong Kong)
Above One of the beautifully restored courtyards at Tai Kwun (Photo: Maggie Adan)
Above The JC Contemporary building showcases contemporary art and exhibits. (Photo: Maggie Adan)
One of the beautifully restored courtyards at Tai Kwun (Photo: Maggie Adan)
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What was once a cluster of colonial-era police and judicial buildings has been reimagined as a vibrant cultural landmark. Today, Tai Kwun is a lively destination where art, heritage and community converge. Its restored architecture offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s storied past, while its courtyards, galleries, shops and dining spots reflect the city’s creative momentum. Whether you're exploring its heritage exhibits or enjoying a coffee in the open-air spaces, Tai Kwun invites you to experience a unique side of Hong Kong’s creative evolution.
Open spaces that were once the Parade Ground and Prison Yard are now beautifully restored courtyards where public events and free performances are held. Also within the compound are two modern buildings: the JC Contemporary building, which showcases contemporary art and exhibits, and the newer JC Cube, which hosts shows and performances.
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (Taipei, Taiwan)
Further illustrating Taiwan’s commitment to restoring and repurposing heritage buildings is Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. A former tobacco factory reimagined as a centre for design and innovation, it is now one of Taipei’s dynamic creative hubs.
Dedicated to supporting local designers and cultural businesses, it’s home to design studios and cafés, as well as an ever-evolving mix of artisan shops and pop-up exhibitions. On weekends, visitors will find families, creative types and pet owners enjoying the complex’s open grounds. There’s also a tranquil garden and an eco park offering a refreshing dose of green space in the heart of the city.
Atúa Midtown (Cebu, Philippines)
Nestled in the heart of midtown Cebu, Atúa (meaning “ours” in the local dialect) breathes new life into what was once Eddie’s Hotel, transforming it into a creative hub where artists and makers can showcase their work and engage with the wider community.
It is home to shops featuring local brands, a tattoo studio, a charming bookshop-slash-bar, cosy cafés and art galleries. True to its mission of fostering connection, Atúa also hosts events such as open-mic nights, thrift store pop-ups and workshops—perfect for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Cebu’s creative pulse.
PMQ (Hong Kong)
Above Former police barracks gets a creative makeover (Photo: Maggie Adan)
Above Artsy hubs say what? (Photo: Maggie Adan)
Former police barracks gets a creative makeover (Photo: Maggie Adan)
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Originally built as a school before being repurposed as the Police Married Quarter—hence, PMQ—it’s currently a design hub tucked away in Hong Kong’s SoHo district. With independent studios and shops showcasing everything from fashion and jewellery to homeware, leather goods and speciality stationery, PMQ aims to nurture the local community of creatives and provide a dedicated space where they can work, collaborate and share their craft.
Beyond browsing the thoughtfully curated boutiques, visitors can join workshops and enjoy exhibitions, festivals and events often held in the spacious courtyard.
