In my previous post, I mentioned our visit to the Peak Tram, where we were lucky enough to catch the Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition 2025 (ended on 23rd August 2025), organised by the Joyful Miniature Association (JMA). Admission was free, making it a must-see event for locals and tourists alike.
The exhibition featured over 20 miniature displays across two floors of the Peak Tower. Each scene was crafted at scales as small as 1:300, turning Hong Kong’s cultural landmarks, street views, and traditions into stunning works of art. You can also watch the video I captured of the miniature exhibition on Instagram.
Here are a few highlights from the exhibition:
Western District Pier (1:76) by JMA
This display recreates the 1970s Western District Pier, once a bustling centre of entrepôt trade. From labourers hauling cargo to the aroma of Hoi On Café’s milk tea and the clattering of To Nam Teahouse, the miniature is alive with nostalgia. The Po Chai Pills neon sign lights up Hong Kong’s golden era of medicine, lion dances weave through Lunar New Year crowds, and the iconic Ding Ding tram runs along the street.
Sha Tin Dragon Boat Race (1:50) by Chan Hung-Fai
This stunning piece captures the energy of the Sha Tin Shing Mun River during the Dragon Boat Festival. After meticulous attempts to replicate water sprays and movement, the artist freezes the moment — one dragon boat has already crossed the finish line while the last two still push forward with fierce determination.
Pinwheels Stall at Wong Tai Sin Temple (1:12) by Ian Choi and Tim Ho
The famous Wong Tai Sin Temple, where worshippers pray for prosperity year-round, is beautifully depicted through a miniature pinwheels stall. Pendants, charms, balms, gourds, and pinwheels were all handmade by Tim Ho, who grew up in Wong Tai Sin. Ian Choi added lifelike figures, bringing the bustling atmosphere to life.
Man Mo Temple (1:20) by Ian Choi and Tim Ho
A Declared Monument since 2010, the Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan has stood for over 170 years. The miniature reveals its multi-layered architecture, intricate carvings, and over a hundred incense coils tied with red strings. Inside, nearly 20 exquisitely carved deity statues complete the scene.
Stone Slab Street (1:12) by Li Loi-yau and Tim Ho
Pottinger Street, or Stone Slab Street, was named after Hong Kong’s first governor in 1858. Known for its steep, uneven stone paving, the miniature captures everyday stalls selling vegetables, shoes, goldfish, fruits, and more — a slice of authentic Hong Kong street life.
Other fascinating exhibits included the Tian Tan Buddha, The Peak Tram, Victoria Harbour, Dragon and Phoenix Hall x Manchu Han Imperial Banquet, a Corner of Goldfish Street and many more.
If you are visiting Hong Kong, keep an eye out for future miniature art exhibitions, and let me know in the comments below — which display would you love to see most?
