The article explores Hong Kong's MTR system, covering its history, expansion, unique features, cultural impact through art, and urban legends, showcasing its significance as a symbol of the city's vibrant spirit.

To get the full picture of the MTR, we should take a step back and take a look at the Kowloon Canton Railway Corporation or the KCRC. It was an alternative “suburban” system that ran parallel to the MTR in the modern day New Territories. The railway history of Hong Kong starts much earlier than the MTR. The first train line in the city was built in 1910 to transport goods to Canton (modern-day Guangzhou), utilising steam engines. This line is known today as the East Rail line, which is why that line has unique quirks like being mostly above ground, running 9-car trains and having old stations in general. 

Over time, more lines were built, namely the West rail line and the Ma On Shan line, both part of today’s Tuen Ma line. Additionally, the Light Rail system was opened in 1988 for people in the western new territories. If you haven’t been on the Light Rail, I highly recommend going if you like trains as it's a very unique system. It doesn't have any ticket barriers at all, and the train cars run level with the road much like a tram. 

“But why have I not heard of the KCRC?” you may ask. That’s because the MTR and KCRC merged in 2007, creating the modern-day MTR system. The systems were merged to reduce redundancies and make the two systems more efficient. However, this has caused some annoying interchange stations such as Nam Cheong where you have to go down the escalator and back up if you want to take the eastbound Tuen Ma line.

Just like any other part of Hong Kong’s urban fabric, there are tales of MTR horror stories. HKU Station, originally intended to be called Whitty Station, is infamous for its eerie past linked to the nearby High Street Mental Hospital. Construction workers working on the station reported chilling encounters, including the haunting sound of a woman’s screams echoing through the tunnels. One particular story recounts an engineer's encounter with a ghostly figure dressed in white, who vanished after leaping onto the tracks. Such stories have fueled the belief that the area is haunted by the spirits of former patients, making it a topic of fascination for thrill-seekers and ghost hunters alike. (Wong, 2022) It helps that HKU station is the deepest station in the system, reaching over 70 metres underground. It is even equipped with its refuge floor and has several exits (including the one to HKU) that rely on high-speed elevators. On a more mundane note, the lines for these elevators can reach up to hundreds of people during the mornings and afternoons, so good luck if you go to university there. 

Similarly, Sheung Wan Station harbours its own ghostly stories tied to the abandoned Rumsey Station. Originally planned to be part of the East Kowloon Line, Rumsey Station was halted due to construction accidents that allegedly claimed lives. The area is now sealed off, yet tales of haunting persist, with locals sharing experiences of unsettling screams emanating from behind the walls. Some believe that the station’s closure was influenced by these tragic events, leading to urban legends about the spirits of construction workers lingering in the shadows. Despite the more mundane reasons for its abandonment, the eerie whispers of the past continue to captivate the imaginations of those passing through Sheung Wan Station, keeping the legends alive in the community. (Wong, 2022)

Throughout the network, commuters encounter a variety of art installations, murals, and exhibitions that reflect the city's vibrant culture and history. The MTR has actively collaborated with local artists and organisations to transform ordinary spaces into engaging art displays. Stations like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui feature prominent works, showcasing everything from contemporary to traditional Chinese art. Temporary exhibitions often rotate, providing a platform for emerging artists and promoting cultural dialogue among passengers. Additionally, the MTR’s commitment to art extends beyond visual pieces; performances, such as live music and dance, occasionally grace platforms and concourses, creating a lively atmosphere. 

This integration of art into the MTR system not only beautifies the urban landscape but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among residents and visitors. By making art accessible to the public in such a high-traffic environment, the MTR promotes creativity and encourages appreciation for Hong Kong’s diverse artistic heritage, making every journey a potential source of inspiration. 

Perhaps one of the most famous works of art is Dancing Ribbons in Hong Kong station (ground floor of IFC). It uses tough cold-cast coloured glass to catch and reflect light and is held up by wires. It is meant to greet visitors as they enter the building. (MTR, 2004)

The MTR system stands as a testament to Hong Kong's innovation and cultural richness. With its efficient service, cross-platform interchanges, and artistic endeavours, the MTR not only facilitates daily commutes but also enhances the urban experience. From the historical roots of the Kowloon Canton Railway to the modern marvel of the driverless Disneyland Resort line, the evolution of the MTR reflects the city's adaptability and forward-thinking spirit. As riders traverse its tunnels and platforms, they become part of a dynamic narrative that celebrates both the past and future of Hong Kong, making every journey not just a means of transportation but a connection to the city's vibrant heartbeat.