Have Your Say – Alfred Yip

AUTHOR/ JADA SEATON
20 June 2025

Hong Kong native, Alfred Yip, has a lot of love for his hometown, and it shows. A self-proclaimed wordsmith and lifelong learner, he encourages others to venture beyond Sha Tin’s commercialized town centre and truly get to know the area.

How long have you lived where you live?

I’ve lived in Sha Tin my whole life!

Can you see yourself anywhere else?

Yes! I’ve always wanted to live by the sea—somewhere like Discovery Bay, Ma Wan, or Lamma Island. It’s too bad that the cost of living in those places is financially out of my reach. A more realistic answer would be Kwun Tong, but Sha Tin will always be a place I feel at home.

What’s so great about your home/neighbourhood?

Life is predictable, somehow, which gives me the peace of mind I deserve.

Best little known gems?

If you’re a street football fan, the vibes at Sha Tin’s public playground are amazing.

Best places to eat breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner?

Cha chaan tengs. Supporting these local businesses is always pleasant; so is helping to preserve neighbourhood culture.

Best places to drink coffee/find a drink?

I hope Pacific Coffee and Starbucks count, since I’m neither really a coffee drinker nor a frequent bar goer!

Best other hangouts?

Taking your date on a quiet night walk along the Shing Mun River is a good idea for anyone who’s interested. Reminiscing about old Hong Kong at somewhere like Lek Yuen Estate or Wo Che Estate works too.

What’s true/not true about your neighbourhood?

Being located in the New Territories doesn’t always mean that things are less expensive than stuff in other parts of the city. There are also places in our neighbourhood beyond New Town Plaza [a shopping centre in Sha Tin] where you can consider meeting your Sha Tin friends. And who knows? Venturing further into the surrounding area might help you to discover things about us!

About the Author

Jada Seaton

Jada Seaton is a writer of fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction from Chicago. They hold a BA in English and Creative Writing from Seattle University and live in Hong Kong with their partner.