Slow City; MTR Passages
Hong Kong is often associated with a fast-paced lifestyle, but in this video, the aim is to showcase a more contemplative, slower side of the city – the journey itself, which is why I have chosen the “Slow City” theme. This journey takes place through Hong Kong’s MTR Passages, a place where the contradictions of fast-slow can be observed. The MTR Passages station is a unique and immersive experience that allows travelers to appreciate the beauty and diversity of Hong Kong.
Multiple components within the passages are worth showcasing, such as the unique design of each station with its different architectural styles, colors, and tiles that reflect Hong Kong’s creativity and innovation. Additionally, there are various artworks present, ranging from colorful murals to thought-provoking sculptures, created by artists from around the world, some of whom collaborate with local communities and youth organizations. Even minor details, such as the behaviors of people inside, can definitely spice up the journey. Observing a range of emotional sparks, such as casual chats, listening to music, diving deep into their phone, looking at scenery out the train’s window, and helplessly sleeping, is common.
MTR Passages also serves as a gateway to Hong Kong’s rich history and culture, located near historical landmarks and cultural attractions. This offers travelers great exploration opportunities. Highlighting these aspects of traveling through Hong Kong’s MTR Passages will encourage viewers to shift toward a more relaxed and mindful approach to their daily commute. A more relaxed approach leads to a more positive and fulfilling travel experience.
Research Methodology
I observed my surroundings and looked for something that depicted a contrasting theme, such as dirty and clean, public and private, and so on. Eventually, I chose MTR Passages as it showcases the fast-slow contradiction, and my research on the internet revealed that numerous attractions and activities could be explored inside the station. Based on my observations and discussions with people, I found that artworks, unique architectural styles, and cultural landmarks are some of the things that people often overlook or take for granted during their journey with the MTR. Additionally, as mentioned in some research, Hong Kong is known for its fast-paced urban lifestyle, which results in people only focusing on their destination and not the journey itself. Therefore, I wanted to present a new perspective on appreciating the travel experience more fully on Hong Kong’s MTR Passages.
Video Production
I began by creating the script narration, which provides a description of every shot and voiceover that I would include in the video. My idea is to create more of a “highlight” video that does not require a lot of voiceovers but has a strong meaning behind each shot. I also included time predictions for each part to make the video-taking process easier.
Moving on to the recording, I used my phone camera with the 4K 60fps setting to capture clearer and smoother footage. Since I had a detailed prompt, I followed it to know what shots to take. I mainly took wide steady shots to capture the stations’ architectural style, then some close-up shots to highlight the details of each artwork. Lastly, I took some timelapse and slow-motion shots to emphasize various human behaviors in MTR Passages.
Reflection
From this project, I learned a lot about Hong Kong’s architectural style implemented in their MTR Passages and how looking at things from different perspectives could make a big difference in how we approach our daily activities. Initially, it seemed like Hong Kong people just rush through everything, focusing only on the end goal rather than enjoying the process of life. However, after conducting research and discussions for this project, I discovered that Hong Kong offers many unique things for us to enjoy. From the artworks scattered all around the Hong Kong MTR Station to the landmarks located just near the exits, every station in Hong Kong’s MTR is unique with different colors, tiles, and framework designs, reflecting the progressive innovation in Hong Kong.
Moreover, I also came to the realization that various emotions are experienced by different individuals at different times. For instance, during a single train trip, I could witness passengers excited to go shopping, finishing their assignments, or simply falling asleep after work. Presenting all of these in a video can help viewers see a different approach to living their lives and become more appreciative of the journey.
Lastly, I also increase my skillset on how to produce shots that could effectively showcase architectural designs through wide shots, highlight the details of artworks through close-ups, and capture people wandering around on their own businesses through time-lapse photography. As I had to deliver this important message through my shots, I approached the task with careful preparation and a full heart.
Creator
Georgy Valencio Siswanta (3035898896)
References
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China Highlights. (n.d.). MTR Subway and Tram Tours. China Highlights. https://www.chinahighlights.com/hong-kong/article-mtr-subway-and-tram-tours.htm
Harindabama, I. (2019, January 13). Hong Kong at a Slower Pace. [Blog post]. My Travel Diary. https://harindabama.com/2019/01/13/hong-kong-at-a-slower-pace/
Hong Kong Tourism Board. (2021). Discover Hong Kong: Transportation. https://www.discoverhongkong.com/us/plan-your-trip/traveller-info/transport/getting-around.jsp
Leung, C. W., & Ng, M. K. (2019). The role of public transportation in shaping Hong Kong’s urban form. Journal of Transport Geography, 75, 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2019.02.001
MTR Corporation Limited. (2021). MTR Passages. https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/passages.html
MTR Corporation Limited. (2021). Art & Architecture. MTR Corporation Limited. https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/community/art_architecture.html
MTR Corporation Limited. (2021). Community Connect. MTR Corporation Limited. https://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/community/community_connect.html
Lau, K. M., & Lee, W. H. (2019). Transport infrastructure and the growth of Hong Kong’s tourism industry. Journal of Travel Research, 58(4), 610-623. https://doi.org/10.1177/0047287518765036
Time Out Hong Kong. (n.d.). Art Lane. Time Out. https://www.timeout.com/hong-kong/art/art-lane
Yoga Wine Travel. (2019, September 17). An Insider’s Travel Guide to the Most Colourful Places in Hong Kong. Yoga Wine Travel. https://www.yogawinetravel.com/an-insiders-travel-guide-to-the-most-colourful-places-in-hong-kong/
Your video documents different aspects of the MTR station. It is interesting that you chose “slow” as your descriptor for MTR stations, as these spaces are often intended for mobility and efficiency. More analysis and elaboration on how MTR stations can convey “slowness” is needed to clarify your idea. Instead of using “slow city”, I think your project will be stronger if you named it “mobile city”, as the spaces you depicted hold constant vehicular and human commotion.