Jee Whizz: Chef Siu makes Ying Jee Club a prime seasonal destination…

With the Chinese New Year celebrations coming to a close, restaurants and businesses across the city are preparing to reopen following a hectic festive celebration. One particular Michelin-starred restaurant, however, kept their doors open to usher in the new lunar year, serving traditional Lunar New Year features that are not only delicious but also brimming with symbolism and auspicious significance.

Ying Jee Club, the Cantonese fine-dining establishment set in Central’s Nexxus Building, is helmed by Executive Chef Siu Hin Chi – who previously helped ensure another high-end cuisinery, T’ang Court, achieved two Michelin-star status, brought home a second star for Duddell’s in 2015 and even helped this particular eatery secure its first star just four months after it opened – the restaurant’s beloved menu was enhanced with a special Lunar New Year spread for the period between 12-18 February.

Summing up the dishes that comprised the exclusive menu, Chef Siu says: “The food we’ll be serving for the holiday majors on iconic festive flavours, further heightened by the finest ingredients. What’s more, each course had been specially renamed to signify good luck and fortune, all in the hope of bestowing blessings on our diners.”

As part of our own tasting menu, we sampled five of the menu’s star turns, beginning with a bowl of Imperial Bird’s Nest Broth with Fish Maw, Conpoy and Chicken. Comfort food at its very finest, the hearty chicken broth was enhanced with complementing textures of gelatinous bird’s nest and crunchy fish maw, while the conpoy bequeathed a deliciously oceanic tinge to proceedings. Subtle yet palate-pleasing, the various ingredients blended together in a wholesome and wholly satisfying manner.

Next up was the Crispy Suckling Pig with Goose Liver Pate and Wok-fried Prawn with Salted Egg Yolk, the Chinese name of which equates to wishing diners a prosperous, gold-enriched home. All in all, the yolk-battered prawns were beautifully golden-hued – symbolising wealth and prosperity – and packed a major umami punch, while the crispy skin of the suckling pig was enhanced with the unusual addition of a small steamed bun and a layer of opulent pâté. Undeniably a feast for the eyes, this delicious dish blended two of Cantonese cuisine’s best-loved appetisers in a sinfully rich fashion.

Another appetiser, Braised Mushroom with Shrimp Paste, Scallop and Crab Roe, then made its much-anticipated entrance. Here, the subtle taste of scallop and prawn enhanced the meaty, umami-laden flavours of the mushroom, with the crab roe imparting an added textural dimension. The glistening jade-hued – yet another lucky Chinese New Year colour – bakchoy was a welcome addition, adding a refreshing component to the plate.

Clearly keen to turn the luxury factor up several notches, Chef Siu further enticed our appetite with a heaped plate of Braised South Africa Abalone with Roasted Duck, Black Mushroom and Yunnan Ham. The generously portioned serving of abalone – that most coveted of edible molluscs – was braised in the requisite sauce prior to being sat atop a bed of thinly-sliced roasted duck and mushrooms. Guaranteed to appeal to festive-minded local diners, slivers of Yunnan ham imparted a sharp saltiness to this otherwise subtly nuanced concoction.

The star of the show, though, was undeniably the Sautéed Lobster with Water Chestnut and Crispy Conpoy. Yet another study in how to perfectly balance flavours and textures, the sweet, crunchy water chestnuts and crispy conpoy shavings served to enhance each succulent morsel of lobster, while tantalising the taste buds with rich oceanic accents. As with preceding courses, this shellfish-led dish highlighted Chef Siu’s innate understanding of how to create a delicate equilibrium between the high-quality ingredients he chooses, with each contributing to the epicurean harmony that will leave patrons of Ying Jee Club yearning for more beyond the Chinese New Year festivities.

Ying Jee Club. Shop G05, 107-108, Nexxus Building, 41 Connaught Rd Central, Central. (852) 801 6882. www.yingjeeclub.com

What the 2021 Year of the Ox has in store for you

While the Year of the Rat certainly lived up to the less salubrious associations of its namesake, it is hoped that the boldly muscular incoming Year of the Ox will set right much of what’s gone wrong. Join us as we take sneak peak at just what the next 12 months have in store…

gafencu magazine Ox Tales What does the incoming lunar year have in store for you and yours - ox

Years of the Ox:

1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

With the Year of the Ox said to be supremely unlucky for those born under the same sign, a challenging year awaits you on many fronts, not least of all financial. You are best advised to postpone anything with more than a hint of risk and focus on consolidating all of your interests into a comparatively safe haven. If you can ride out the immediately forthcoming tough times, you will be well placed to begin next year in a far more advantageous position than many of your peers. Look to investing in the education of someone close to you come autumn.

Years of the Tiger:

1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

With the blessings of Tai Yang, the powerful star of relationships, upon you, this is the time to change the power dynamics of a key relationship. One particular partner – whether personal or business-related – has been pushing you to take things to the next stage for quite some time now. If you postpone your decision much longer, you may well find the choice has been made for you. Chances are, the outcome will not be the one you most desire, so it would be far better for you to seize the initiative and take control of your own destiny.

Years of the Rabbit:

1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011

Your long-suppressed desire to travel will eventually resurface and be fully indulged, but not until the new year turns old. Someone far away has been keeping the faith throughout the travails of the past 12 months, but their hope of you doing the same is beginning to waiver. It’s best you reaffirm your commitment virtually at the earlier opportunity; this will reassure both of you that you really are doing the right thing. Use your vacation time sparingly, as you will have a lot of catching up to do come late autumn.

Years of the Dragon:

1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012

Dragons truly get to take flight this year. While you spent much of 2020 hunkering down, the time is now right for you to return to the fray with a vengeance. Although others have grown soft and indecisive during the months of relative inactivity, you have taken the opportunity to regroup, reassess and plan. However, remember to keep a level head as the inauspicious auspices of Yang Ren entering your sphere may have you experiencing sudden, inopportune bouts of temper.

Years of the Snake:

1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013

Snakes know a turncoat when they see one and you have long suspected the loyalties of someone who has enjoyed all the advantages of being privy to your inner circle. Now, inadvertently, they are poised to show their true colours, giving you all the justification you need to exile them from you and yours. While they are bound to backpedal and look to mitigate, you know this is but cosmetic bluster. Stick to your convictions and make the break.

Years of the Horse:

1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 2002, 2014

Love is all around you this year, with the admirable qualities you showed over the last 12 months having endeared many to you. Your leadership on many fronts has led to family, friends and work colleagues reevaluating you in a universally favourable light. Be careful, however, as this outpouring of affection could impair your objectivity when tough decisions need to be taken. While flattery is always welcome, it is never going to sustain you financially or help you reach any of your key life goals.

Years of the Goat:

1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015

An event early in the year forces you to reassess much of your philosophy of life, particularly on the environmental front. While you have long given tacit support for action on the climate change front, you may well soon feel compelled to take a more strident approach. This is largely down to your growing sense of stewardship and your increased awareness that the wellbeing of future generations is already in your hands.

Years of the Monkey:

1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016

It has often been said that you can resist anything but temptation. Given the kid-in-a-candy shop sentiment that is tiding over you at the first hint that the wider world may be about to return to something approaching normal, this may become an issue. While you’ve been abstemious and restrained for the best part of 10 months, there is now an inner dam approaching breaking point. Discretion is your watchword as the sins of older folk are always less becoming than those of their younger counterparts.

Years of the Rooster:

1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017

Very rarely has the New Year presented you with quite such a blank page. In this instance, given the Rooster’s harmonious relationship with the ruling Ox sign, that’s very definitely a positive prospect. While you’ve spent the past few years constrained by the expectations and demands of others, suddenly you are off the leash big time, free to explore new directions both personally and professionally. While this has, unfortunately, been triggered by something of a loss, there is also an awful lot to be gained.

Years of the Dog:

1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018

Gossip will be dogging your every move in the first half of the year. While much of this is down to jealousy on the part of certain people within your professional and social circles, there’s no denying it’s also been fuelled by your habitually opaque behaviour. Although no-one is suggesting complete transparency, keeping secrets for the sake of keeping secrets doesn’t really become you. You could just try explaining yourself every once in a while.

Years of the Pig:

1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019

With the lucky star of mobility, Yi Ma, smiling on you, a golden career opportunity is starred for you this year. It may, however, be best to keep the celebrations on a low burn – after all, everyone’s gain has to be someone else’s loss. You may find that some people are more inclined to mourn the latter rather than applaud the former, so it’s best all round if you share any good news sparingly. A grand charitable gesture may help to dispel any negative karma heading your way.

Years of the Rat:

1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020

A year of fine balance awaits you, one where you manage to keep all of your plates – personal, professional and spiritual – spinning rather nicely. Many will look on wistfully as you dexterously keep all of your affairs in order, with few realising just how much hard work it has taken for you to arrive in such an enviable position. If you can maintain your current priorities and keep your hand firmly (but sensitively) on the tiller, this is a situation that could yet hold steady for several more years.

A day-by-day guide to celebrating Lunar New Year

Chinese New Year is an important occasion that strictly follows customs, rules and superstitions that reflect on the values and tradition of Chinese culture. Below, we track the highlights of the 15-day festivities.

According to the Chinese calendar, the Chinese New Year begins with the first full moon on the first day of the first lunar month (February for 2021). Also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, it is the longest holiday in Hong Kong and its festivities stretch for 15 days, ending with the Lantern Festival. During these 15 days, celebratory feasts, family reunions, honouring ancestors and praying to the gods are all part of celebrating this auspicious time of the year to welcome in happiness and good fortune.

First day (初一)

The first day of the new lunar year is an important day that symbolises a fresh start. Families pay a visit to their elders, particularly the most senior of the household, to pay bài nián (New Year’s wishes). Guests traditionally arrive bearing lucky fruits such as tangerines, oranges and pomelos and are welcomed with tea, fruits and a variety of candied treats, typically served in a round tray with eight compartments called a ‘Tray of Togetherness’, meant to sweeten one’s year and to symbolize the unity of a family.

Second day (開年)

The second lunar day is dedicated to visit the in-laws. Married women will visit their side of the family, often bearing red pockets to give to the young. Sweet fried dumplings called Yau Gok (油角) in the shape of ingots are prepared to bring a luckier and more prosperous year. Lion dances and Chinese operas are usual forms of neighbourhood entertainment, and firecrackers are also lit to ward off evil spirits.

Third day (初郝)

The third day of the New Year is one that carries with it many taboos. Although it is a day dedicated to visiting the grave of ancestors, staying out for too long and house visiting is considered bad luck as it is believed that evil spirits roam the earth on this day. Arguments and making fire are also best avoided to ward off bad spirits and poor emotions for the year ahead.

Fourth day (初四)
On the fourth lunar day, all businesses closed during the prior festivities will reopen and everyday activities begin to return to normal, including cleaning and sweeping. According to legends, this day is dedicated to the God of Wealth. People tend to stay at home to welcome in wealth, prosperity and abundance as it is believed that the deity will pay visits to homes on this day.

Fifth day (初五)
This day marks a day to drive away the Ghost of Poverty by getting rid of old clothes, broken items and throwing out garbage. As it is believed that keeping rugged and broken objects will attract poverty.

Seventh day, (人日)

The seventh lunar day is known as Day of Men, also known as renrì (people day). It is mankind’s birthday, a day on which every person grows a year older. The occasion is celebrated with yet another feast comprising of ingredients that have symbolic meanings related to improved health, such as fish- a symbol of abundance, vegetables and a dish called Seven Gem Porridge consisting of kale, leek, mustard leaves, celery, garlic, spring vegetable and thick leaf vegetable for prosperity and vigour.

Eight to Fourteenth day

The following days after renrì are dedicated to specific deities such as the the God of Millet and the God of Stone. Incense and candles are burnt in honour of these deities, and the days leading up to the 15th lunar day are spent preparing for the closing of the new year festivities also known as Lantern Festival.

Fifteenth day (元宵節)
The 15th day marks the first full moon after the Spring Festival and of the New Year festivities. Known as Lantern Festival, vibrant displays of lanterns decorate the streets and homes to guide lost spirits home. Another reunion dinner is prepared to celebrate the bonds of friends, family, nature and the deities that bless the year with prosperity and good fortune. Mandarin oranges and sweet glutinous rice balls called ‘tong yuen’, are significant parts of the feast, symbolizing good fortune, reunion and togetherness.

Stem Sells: Which Chinese New Year flowers should you buy to grace your bowers?

While the winter season may seem a somewhat contrary time to turn your mind to matters floral, it’s actually a peak purchasing time for Hongkongers. Every year, at around this time, tens of thousands of petal-minded purchasers descend upon the annual Lunar New Year Fair – also known as the Lunar New Year Flower Market – in search of the perfect festive flowers to gift their loved ones.

This year, in spite of social distancing measures and the downbeat sentiment triggered by the on-going coronavirus pandemic, the government green-lit the fair – albeit at half capacity. As such, from the 6th to 12th of February, 15 locations across Hong Kong will serve as the venues for this year’s offering, with Causeway Bay’s Victoria Park and Fa Hui Park in Mong Kok set to welcome the bulk of the hundreds of vendors and the thousands of visitors expected to participate in this seven-day garland gala.

Many Hongkongers will have already decided exactly which plants they plan on taking on, whether that’s ornate orchids, pulchritudinous peach blossoms or luxuriant lucky bamboo plants. What most may not be aware of, however, is why these particular blooms are especially sought out during the Spring Festival. If you are one of the many yet to be fully conversant with the arcane arts of floriography – the official term for deciphering the language and symbolism of flowers – fear not. Join us on a tour through the A-to-Z of the most auspicious CNY blooms, highlighting what they symbolise and advising how you can best avoid any inappropriate gift-giving gaffes.

Orchids

The diverse family of flowering plants known colloquially as orchids encompasses a staggering 28,000 varietals. Varying in shapes, hues and sizes, these tropical blossoms are among the most popular festive adornments to be seen throughout the Chinese New Year celebrations. Said to symbolise abundance, fertility, refinement and luxury, orchids are ideal gifts for that special someone in your life. There’s a common misconception that only multiple varieties make an acceptable gift, when, in fact, sticking to just one potted plant will often more than suffice.

Peach Blossoms

Peach blossoms have long been prized in Chinese culture. In fact, during times more classical, it was believed that the peach tree embodied more vitality than any other shrub, largely because its flowers bloomed even before its leaves began to sprout. As such, peach blossom branches were once hung over doorways as a means of warding off evil influences. Today, they are still seen as promoting long life and prosperity, as well as romance. So, if you’re single and looking to mingle, there’s no harm in grabbing a bushel of these blushing blossoms.

Pussy Willows

Unlike their petaled cousins, pussy willows boast uniquely fluffy and silky blossoms, attributes that in no way diminish their Spring Festival appeal. As their buds eventually spawn shoots the colour of green jade – a substance considered by the Chinese to be particularly fortuitous – pussy willows are believed to help usher in prosperity and growth. Although only naturally occurring in white, intrepid growers have developed dyed versions that range from brown and gold to pink and even a lucky red.

Narcissus

Although in Greek mythology the story of Narcissus is somewhat bleak – with his namesake blooms springing up after the demigod in question withered away after falling in love with his own reflection in a pool – in Oriental tradition, they actually rank among the most auspicious of Chinese New Year flowers. Delicate and deliciously fragrant, they betoken good fortune and prosperity in the year to come. Also known as ‘Water Fairy Flowers’ or ‘Chinese Sacred Lilies’, they have a relatively short lifespan, so it’s best to buy them close to the start of the Lunar New Year Fair in order to ensure they last throughout the celebrations.

Gladiolus

According to Western traditions, gladioli are the birth flowers of those born in the month of August, as well as the traditional blooms associated with a 40th wedding anniversary. In Chinese culture, however, they symbolise advancements in personal development as well as career growth, a belief stemming from the upright shape of the flower from base to tip. Although gladioli are available in a rainbow of stunning colours, the best way to capture the festive spirit is to opt for a mono-hued red whether you’re buying a single branch or an entire bouquet.

Peonies

Among the flora with the greatest heritage of use in East Asia, the peony was actually declared the national flower during China’s Qing Dynasty (1636-1912) and remains a much-favoured Lunar New Year adornment. Emblemising feminine beauty, innocence, charm and affection, they will likely be doubly in vogue this coming Year of the Ox as the Spring Festival coincides with Valentine’s Day. If you’re looking to woo the lucky lady in your life, a bouquet of peonies is pretty much your best bet.

Lucky Bamboo

Lucky bamboo plants may crop up in offices and homes throughout the year, but they are especially popular during the Spring Festival thanks to their status as good luck charms. The majority of lucky bamboo plants today are grown and exported from either Taiwan or China, where professionally trained growers skilfully braid, twist or shape their stems into intricate patterns. While they are resilient and long-lived, experts recommend watering them with bottled or distilled water as the chlorine and chemicals found in tap water can be detrimental to their wellbeing.

Fruits

No Chinese New Year celebration would be complete without the requisite gifts of fruits. In particular, mandarins and tangerines are much-loved favourites and can usually be seen everywhere throughout the holiday. This may be due to the fact that the Chinese word for mandarins sounds similar to those for luck and good fortune. Tangerine plants, meanwhile, can often be spotted near doorways as they are thought to bequeath good luck on those stepping to and fro.

Another citrus fruit, the pomelo, similarly imparts good fortune. With its Mandarin name serving as a homophone for the words that mean “prayer for a son”, it also doubles as a symbol for family unity and fertility.

February Events: Highlights for Hong Kong’s upcoming month

The Lunar New Year festivities are unsurprisingly the highlight of the month’s celebrations though beyond the Chinese New Year preparations, the month is also filled with plenty more activities to fill the calendar. From Gentle Yoga for Terrible Times to the Hong Kong Arts Festival and a virtual iteration of the International Fur & Fashion Fair, here’s our round-up of the February events to look out for in Hong Kong.

Every Wednesday

Gentle Yoga for Terrible Times

A much needed meditative session for the stressed-out city folk, this virtual yoga session (organised by Los Angeles-based yogi instructor, Joyce Wu) could be just what you are looking for. Essentially, it promises that by practising simple and accessible breathing exercises, stretches and guided meditation, your mind and body will re-centre as the stress unwinds. Said to be both easy to access and relaxing, you can top up your inner peace reserves from the safety and comfort of your own living space on any Wednesday this month. Free admission. eventbrite.com

5-7 Feb

The 101st Hong Kong Wedding Fair

The Hong Kong Asia Exhibition Ltd is gearing up for its 101st wedding fair, the largest such event to be hosted in the city. The first of the organiser’s four annual fairs dedicated to local brides-to-be, the event will comprise more than 400 booths across eight themed zones. This time around, one of the highlights is said to be the Overseas Wedding and Honeymoon section, which will allow couples to plan ahead for a much deserved celebration in the location of their dreams once the pandemic has passed. From HK$20. Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, Wan Chai. wedding-show.com.hk

Until 11 Feb

Rhapsody by Brenda Hong

Cheer Bell Gallery is setting great store by Rhapsody, a solo exhibition of the latest works by renowned ink artist Brenda Hong. Said to take its inspiration from a classic Chinese poem describing the creation of the Cosmos, the installation is divided into five individual stages – Rage, Furious, Serenade, Origin and Flourish. Utilising a stunning colour palette and delivered via an array of mixed media, it promises to treat attendees to an unparalleled celebration of the cosmos. Cheer Bell Gallery, 19-21 Wong Chuk Hang Rd, Wong Chuk Hang. cheerbell.com

7-12 Feb

Chinese New Year Flower Market

All but wholly synonymous with Chinese New Year celebrations, the annual Victoria Park Flower Market has long been an important occasion for Hongkongers as they get ready for the week-long celebration of the Lunar New Year. Promising an array of fresh, colourful flowers and fruits, booth-after-booth of trinkets, local snack and delicacies as well as novelty gifts, the Flower Market may well be the perfect place to prepare for the incoming Year of the Ox. Free entry, Victoria Park, Causeway Bay.

Until 23 Feb

The Stage Movements of Cantonese Opera

Focusing on the particular use of patterns and specific movements in Cantonese opera (including acting, martial arts and dancing), this event consists of two special talks related to the traditional stage movements across a variety of different roles. Among those presenting is Xie Xiaoyu, a specialist in dan (female roles), and Ng Lap-hei, a specialist in sheng (male roles). Both are hugely experienced performers and will introduce attendees to the formulaic movements and facial expressions used to convey stories and impart meaning. Seminar Hall, 2/ Fl, Xiqu Centre, and live-streaming. westkowloon.hk.

Throughout Feb

Online Masterclasses of 2020 Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival

In order to comply with the prevailing social distancing regulations and safety measurements occasioned by the Covid-19 pandemic, the ever-popular Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival was obliged to reinvent itself as a solely online event last year. Following on from that, this year sees it continue to entertain and inform its virtual patrons via more than 30 online masterclasses, all taught by the city’s most prominent chefs / wine and spirits experts, all in the hopes of nurturing a new generation of masterchefs. masterclasses.discoverhongkong.com

24-28 Feb

Hong Kong International Fur & Fashion Fair

The Hong Kong International Fur & Fashion Fair returns this month, providing an unrivalled platform for fashion-forward fur lovers to source high quality fur, leather garments and accessories. Although the physical iteration of the fair has had to be postponed due to the pandemic, erminophiles will still be able to access its virtual incarnation this month, so there’s no excuse not to digitally dally among your pre-furred choices. hkff.org

27 Feb – 26 Mar

Hong Kong Arts Festival

The 49th Hong Kong Arts Festival kicks off its five-week run this month with the promise of the participation of close to 2,000 international artists, local talents, and performers. One of the biggest art events in the city, this year the festival will include much anticipated performances of the Beethoven 250 & Beyond celebrations, as well as programmes, workshops, and special screenings at the new K11 Art House. Whether classical piano, modern dance or something far more outré is your thing, chances are you’ll find something at the festival to enjoy. From HK$170. hk.artsfestival.org

12 Feb

Trans Lantau

It’s time to welcome back the Trans Lantau race, as impressive an exercise of endurance and athletic ability as you are likely to find within the +852 area code. Challenging runners to conquer the many hills and valleys of the city’s biggest island, it comprises a 100km race around some of the island’s most scenic spots, while also taking in some of its sharpest inclines, most notably the Lantau Peak. This year, unlike with previous races, organisers are stretching the event from just one intensive day into a more flexible three-month affair to minimise the number of runner participating at any one time. HK$380. Mui Wo, Lantau. translantau.com

Hamper Time: Treat yourself to these luxurious Chinese New Year hampers

Family gatherings and gift-giving are part and parcel of any true Lunar New Year celebration, and these Chinese New Year hampers are sure to elevate festivities even further. Be it delicious wines, decadent sweets or rich Chinese rice puddings, these gift baskets offer epicureans with an array of auspicious delicacies. Below are four of the hottest holiday hampers to tempt your taste buds with…

The Peninsula
The Peninsula Hotel’s ever-popular Chinese New Year hampers celebrate the incoming Year of the Ox with the ‘lucky knot’ – a symbol of prosperity and good luck – which decorates the gift box replete with several new assortments of seasonal goodies such as a candy box filled with handmade treats, a Travel Tea Set, and delectable festive puddings with a unique aromatic citron and ginger flavours.
Price: HK$2,988
Contact: +852 2696 6969

Grand Hyatt
Turning over a new leaf this Spring Festival is the Grand Hyatt, with its Chinese New Year hampers consisting of sweet yet healthy interpretations of its traditional assortment of delicious nibbles. Inside the gift basket are such offerings as vintage wines, deluxe dried seafood, homemade XO chili sauce, South African abalones, handmade sweets and more. The highlight, though, may likely be the coconut rice pudding, made from refined black cane sugar to encourage healthier eating habits.
Price: HK$3,888
Contact: +852 2584 7744

Mandarin Oriental
Beloved traditions are a warm reminder of home, which is what makes the luxurious Mandarin Oriental’s annual Lunar New Year gift baskets a city-wide favourite. This year, its Gourmet Chinese Hamper overflows with premium wines, traditional glutinous rice cakes, a rich assortment of chocolates, and other sweets, as well as savoury items including a signature homemade XO sauce, Chinese preserved sausage, fish maw, and dried mushrooms.
Price: HK$3,988
Contact: +852 2903 1624

Four Seasons
Rounding out our list of luxurious festive gift boxes are the Four Seasons Hotel’s Lung Keen Hing Chinese New Year hampers, all brimming with a selection of premium epicurean treats and sumptuous ingredients to usher in good luck, prosperity and health in the Year of the Ox. A star turn here is the Deluxe Hamper, which includes the three Michelin-starred restaurant’s famed XO sauce and tea, as well as South-African abalone, fois gras, superior dried moss, and premium dried Goji berries from Qinghai, to name a few.
Price: HK$3,988
Contact: +852 3196 8708

Eight myths and taboos behind common Lunar New Year traditions

Chinese New Year, otherwise known as the Spring Festival, marks the first moon of the lunisolar calendar year traditionally used in East Asian countries including China. It is an exuberant celebration, with festivities stretches over two weeks, including traditional rituals that follow traditions rooted in centuries-old folklores. From fire crackers and red packets to an array of strict practices, below we track some of the interesting origins of the myths and taboos behind Lunar New Year customs.

Lucky colour red and firecrackers
Legend has it that the ferocious monster Nián (年) – a word that also means ‘year’ – would emerge from the sea at the end of each year to feast on humans and livestock. An old man sought refuge in a villager’s home, and in exchange, he promised to defeat the monster. He decorated the house with the colour red, lit candles and jumped at the monster dressed in red while firecrackers burst in the background, eventually succeeding in scaring it away. The tale explains the belief behind the auspicious colour red that lavishly decorates, seemingly every acreage of the city. Firecrackers, too, are annual features believed to scare away evil. Another tradition beloved by locals young and old are the acrobatic Lion Dance performances that parade the streets, entertaining bystanders with the tale of Nian’s defeat.

Rhyming couplets on doors
It is almost impossible to find a front door without Chinese calligraphy painted (or printed) on red paper affixed onto them. Although alluring, these signs are more than just decorative. In fact, it is believed that they can usher in good fortune, protect against evil spirits and safe guard homes. These diamond-shaped signs – featuring the words ‘prosperity’, ‘health’ or ‘happiness’ – are commonly pasted in an upturned fashion as the Chinese word ‘upside down’ sound similar to the word ‘come’. Rhyming couplets hung on each side of the door are also traditional features that invite in good luck.

Red Money Pockets
It was said that an evil spirit named Sui would appear on New Year’s Eve and pat the heads of sleeping children. These unfortunate youngsters would consequently wake up in a fever. Traditionally, money in red envelopes (Lai See) would be given to the young by elders to protect them from evil and bless them with good luck and happiness. This is perhaps the most enjoyable part of the festivities, unless the person is a senior or is married.
No sweeping the floor
Sweeping and throwing out garbage is said to be bad luck between the first and fourth lunar day. Apparently, doing so would sweep away any gathered good luck that has been invited into the home. Washing dishes and bathing are also a no-go during those three days, which explains why one of the major preparations for the lunar celebrations is to clean, bathe, and buy new furniture and new clothes prior to the first day of Chinese New Year.
Closed for business
In Hong Kong it isn’t unlikely to see shops and businesses closed for several days during Chinese New Year. This period is traditionally used solely to focus on family reunions. However, On the fifth day of New Year’s, it is believed that the gods of prosperity come down from the heavens. Businesses will often participate in setting off firecrackers as they believe it will bring them the gods’ attention, with prosperity and good fortune following in their wake. Keep in mind that borrowing money or knocking on someone’s door to ask for repayment of a debt will incur bad luck to both parties for the entire year. However, it becomes fair game after the 5th lunar day.
Don’t use knives, forks or scissors
One of the biggest taboos to avoid during Lunar New Year is the use of knives and scissors – or indeed any sharp objects for that matter. According to popular belief, using sharp objects will cut your wealth and success short, which might explain why hair saloons are always closed during the festivities. It is also advised to avoid breaking things for this same reason. If you have the misfortune of doing so, an old wives’ tale claims that immediately wrapping the pieces in red paper while chanting auspicious phrases such as “suì suì píng ān” (岁岁平安) will ask the gods to ward off bad luck and bless them with good luck.
Bad luck gifts
Other symbolisms of misfortune play a huge role in determining what presents to give – or rather, which items to avoid giving. In addition to sharp objects, it is widely believed that offering shoes and mirrors are associated with evil, while umbrellas would mean an inevitable break-up. Clocks and pears are also regarded as bad luck, with the former serving as a homophone for the words meaning ‘attending a funeral’, and the latter similarly pronounced to the Chinese word for ‘parting’. Objects that sound like the words ‘death’ or ‘sickness’ should also be avoided at all cost as they curse the recipient with an untimely passing and poor health. The number four, for instance, sounds like ‘death’ and is a major taboo in Chinese culture.
Don’t wake people up
Although New Year blessings are a joyful gesture of sharing happiness and well-wishes, it is said that blessing people who are still in bed will cause them to be bed-ridden for the entire year. A less scary superstition believed in times old is that husbands shouldn’t be woken up on New Year’s Day, lest he become a push-over and rushed around by his boss and peers in the 12 months to follow. This makes for the perfect time to sleep in, though with all the joyous festivities happening, it’s doubtful anyone would want to!

January Events: Highlights for Hong Kong’s upcoming month

Kick off the New Year in style by trying your hand at everything from online botanical painting classes to taking in a Brahms requiem. If retail therapy is more your thing, visit the upcoming Discovery Bay Chinese New Year Market. Read on for more events to look forward to in Hong Kong this January…

Jan 7

A Feminist’s guide to Botany: Online Botanical Painting Session

Step into the magical world of botany and try pairing your green fingers with a brush in an online water painting class dedicated to exploring the history of iconic female artists in the botanical field. The workshop will be led by the London Drawing Group, an all-female art and teaching collective that promises to deliver engaging art classes you can enjoy right in the comfort of your own home. The attendance fee, meanwhile, is on an eminently reasonable “pay what you can” basis.

Details: londondrawinggroup.com

Jing Kewen: Cloudless

Until Jan 11

Jing Kewen, a leading proponent of the Chinese avant-garde movement, is to present a selection of works he created over the course of 20 years in the first exhibition of his art to be hosted by Massimo De Carlo. The chosen pieces are said to highlight his evolution as an artist, including many deemed to be pivotal expressions of his unique vision during the period when his oeuvre was most influenced by post-modernism and globalisation.

Details: Massimo De Carlo, Central. massimodecarlo.com

Cantonese opera young talent

Until Feb 6
With the aim of breathing new life into one of the city’s few homegrown artforms, the Chinese Artist Association of Hong Kong is to stage over 100 Cantonese opera performances and related outreach activities at the Yau Ma Tei Theatre. It is hoped this will help nurture new talents via a programme intended to pass on the art of Cantonese opera to a new generation.

Details: HK$100 Up at Yau Ma Tei Theatre. hkbarwoymt.com

A taste for life: The collection and connoisseurship of Mr Low Chuck-tiew

Until Feb 24
Xubaizhai is presenting a fine selection of highly acclaimed Chinese paintings and calligraphy works from the archives of the late connoisseur of the fine arts, Low Chuck-tiew. In all, the collection is said to showcase some 40 iconic works collected over a 50-year period, which both capture the zeitgeist and reflect the rarefied taste of their former owner. The selection is also accompanied by the personal story behind the acquisition of each work, providing an illuminating journey into the heart of art connoisseurship.

Details: Free admission at Xubaizhai Gallery of Chinese Painting and Calligraphy. hk.art.museum

Brahms: The German Requiem

Jan 9
A piece that will move and comfort the grieving heart, The German Requiemis the longest work composed by Deutschland’s own Johannes Brahms. Said to be a tribute to his mother and inspired by the music of Bach, this seven-movement piece will be performed by the Hong Kong Youth Choir under the lead of Christopher Cheng.

Details: HK$180 Up at Concert Hall, Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui. up.hkphil.org.

Discovery Bay Chinese New Year Market

Jan 12
Ring in the Chinese New Year with a little retail therapy while getting ahead with your preparations for the lunar celebration. As a special edition of the ever-vibrant and lively Discovery Bay Sunday Market, the Discovery Bay Chinese New Year Market is aiming to spoil shoppers with an array of fare from dozens of artisan vendors, all selling handmade crafts and ethically-produced items from local creators.

Details: Free admission at Discovery Bay Main Plaza. handmadehongkong.com

The Impossible Trial: A Musical

Jan 24 – 31
The Impossible Trial (previously known as The Great Pretender) assembles some of Hong Kong’s leading creators and performers in the revival of this classic fable of greed, justice and redemption, all in a contemporary context in an innovative musical theatre format. Commissioned by Freespace, and co-presented and co-produced by HKRep and Freespace, the performance is said to tell a timeless tale with considerable relevance to modern day Hong Kong.

Details: HK$180 Up at Hong Kong Cultural Centre. westkowloon.hk

Happy Chinese New Year greetings from the Gafencu Team