Then and Now in Hong Kong - YMCA Kowloon in 1965
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong as it is now known
Me Jamie, your host, I am English and I have lived in Hong Kong for 53 years - I know the place.
I have personally completed 2,340+ Private Tours and Experiences (over 6,500+ guests) since April 2011 and I am considered one of the finest Private Tour Guides in Asia.
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Then and Now in Hong Kong - YMCA Kowloon in 1965
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong as it is now known
click on the image to enlarge
The YMCA Kowloon in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong - 1960’s
As you may know I have recently started to use AI as a research tool, I am a typical writer and I get writers block when confronted with a blank screen, AI is proving very helpful in getting me the information I need and it saves me an awful lot of time which means I can pump out more blog posts!
The image above brings back a lot of memories, it pretty much looked exactly the same in 1972 as it did in 1965 when this image was taken in fact you can see in the top left of the image the Merlin Hotel behind the YMCA, we stayed there when we arrived in Hong Kong from the UK in early January 1972, as a kid I loved to explore and the YMCA and the Peninsula Hotel did not seem to mind me hanging around in the lobby!
We very quickly became members of the YMCA so we could use their swimming pool (and did I mention you simply cannot beat the location.) and yes, the pool is still there today/
Fast forward to today, well I do if the opportunity presents itself take guests through the lobby of the Peninsula Hotel which is right next door to the Salisbury YMCA, it is an interesting contrast for sure and most people are blissfully unaware that the Salisbury is a very solid 4 star hotel and when I have guests stay there they rave about it! I also hang out in the mall cafe in the lobby which serves very decent food at very reasonable prices and seriously you cannot beat the location! and there is literally a subway station entrance less than 100 yards away from the YMCA back entrance.
I think it is a shame that human nature gets in the way of logic, people have the perception that the YMCA is a hostel type of experience (cheap very basic rooms, lack of amenities and non existent service) nothing could be further from the truth with The Salisbury so please check out there website, link below.
The one thing that does puzzle me is that they only clean the rooms every 3 days, I cannot believe this is a money saving scheme as pretty much every 4 star and 5 star hotel offers a daily cleaning service, it would not bother me but some people would not be happy about this.
So I asked AI and this is the response
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong has implemented a housekeeping policy where rooms are cleaned every three days for guests staying more than one night. The primary reason for this policy is the hotel's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By reducing the frequency of full room cleanings, the hotel aims to conserve resources such as water, energy, and cleaning supplies, aligning with its goal to be an "Earth Partner" for a sustainable planet. This initiative is explicitly mentioned on their official website and in responses to guest reviews, emphasizing eco-friendly practices.
Additionally, the policy may reflect operational adjustments, possibly influenced by post-COVID practices or cost management, as some guests have noted the change since pre-COVID visits. While full housekeeping is scheduled every three days, daily services like towel changes and trash removal are still provided upon request, suggesting a balance between guest comfort and environmental goals.Guest feedback on this policy is mixed. Some appreciate the environmental intent but find the reduced cleaning frequency inconvenient, comparing it to not cleaning their homes for days.
Others report that requesting additional services, like towel changes, is accommodated promptly. The hotel acknowledges potential inconvenience in their responses, apologizing and encouraging guests to reach out with concerns, indicating flexibility for individual needs.If you prefer daily cleaning, you can contact the hotel directly at (852) 2268 7888 or email room@ymcahk.org.hk to inquire about special requests, though additional fees may apply. Always confirm policies at booking, as they may vary based on room type or season.
My personal response to this, is this is taking this eco stuff too far and it actually makes me believe that it is a cost saving measure and they try to muddy the waters by claiming it is for saving the environment concerns!
The complete history of The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong in TST Kowloon and its evolution into a 4 star Hotel of some note
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong
Located at 41 Salisbury Road in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST), Kowloon, has a rich history that spans over a century, evolving from a charitable organization into a unique hybrid of a community-focused YMCA and a modern 4-star hotel. Below is a comprehensive account of its history and transformation.
Early Beginnings: Establishment of YMCA of Hong Kong (1901–1924)
The YMCA of Hong Kong was founded in 1901 as a charitable organization, headquartered at Salisbury Road, TST, Kowloon. Its mission, aligned with the global YMCA movement started by George Williams in England, was to promote justice, peace, hope, and truth within the Hong Kong and international community. Initially, it served as an "International YMCA," primarily catering to foreign nationals in Hong Kong, distinguishing itself from the Chinese YMCA of Hong Kong and the YWCA, which had different target groups and service directions.
In its early years, the YMCA focused on community service, including support for people in need and sponsorship of local events, such as toy recycling for children.
The organization’s presence in TST, a burgeoning commercial and cultural hub, positioned it strategically to serve both expatriates and locals. The foundation stone for the YMCA’s Tsim Sha Tsui Club was laid in January 1924 by Sir Reginald Edward Stubbs, the Governor of Hong Kong, marking a significant milestone in its physical establishment at Salisbury Road.
Development of the Salisbury Road Center (1920s–1930s)
By the 1930s, the Salisbury Road Center had become a recognizable landmark, situated near notable neighbors like the Old Kowloon Fire Station and The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong. The center served as a hub for community activities, offering programs for youth, children, and under-resourced members of society. The YMCA’s commitment to long-term social impact was evident in its sustainable approach, using income from services to fund community initiatives.
During this period, the YMCA began providing accommodation to its members and guests, a practice that started as early as 1905. These accommodations were modest, likely dormitories or basic rooms, aimed at supporting travelers, expatriates, and community members aligned with the YMCA’s mission. This laid the groundwork for its eventual evolution into a hotel.
Post-War Expansion and Modernization (1940s–1980s)
The post-World War II era saw significant growth in Hong Kong’s economy and tourism, with TST emerging as a prime business, shopping, and entertainment district. The YMCA capitalized on its prime location, adjacent to cultural landmarks like the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Space Museum, Museum of Art, and the historic Clock Tower. The organization expanded its facilities to meet the needs of a growing international clientele, including tourists, business travelers, and local residents.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the Salisbury - YMCA had transitioned from offering basic accommodations to operating as a more structured hospitality provider. The 372 rooms, including dormitories, suites, and standard rooms, were modernized with functional designs, large windows, and amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi (introduced later).
The property became a smoke-free environment, reflecting contemporary health standards.Recreational facilities were also developed, including an indoor lap pool, jacuzzi, sauna, fitness center, squash courts, basketball court, climbing walls, and dance studios. These amenities catered to both guests and community members, reinforcing the YMCA’s dual role as a hospitality provider and a community center. Dining options, such as The Haven (offering international buffets) and The Mall Cafe (serving oriental and western dishes), were introduced to enhance the guest experience.
Formal Evolution into a Hotel (1980s–1990s)
By the 1980s, the Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong had fully embraced its identity as a hotel while retaining its charitable roots. Its strategic location—within a 5-minute walk of Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Nathan Road, the Avenue of Stars, and the Star Ferry—made it a compelling choice for travelers seeking affordability and convenience compared to luxury neighbors like The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong. The hotel’s no-frills approach, combined with complete facilities, attracted budget-conscious guests, leading to high occupancy and the need for early reservations.
In 1992, the YMCA established the YMCA College of Continuing Education on the 6th floor of The Salisbury, further integrating educational services into its offerings. The same year, the YMCA of Hong Kong Christian International Kindergarten opened at Salisbury Road, catering to young families and reinforcing the organization’s community focus. These initiatives underscored the YMCA’s commitment to using hotel revenue to fund social impact programs.
Recognition and Awards (2000s–Present)
In the 2000s, The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong gained recognition for its hospitality and design. Notable awards include:
Anti-Epidemic Hygiene Measures Certification by Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (2020)
Asia HOREDA Outstanding Hospitality Design - HK Large F&B Outlet (Dining) Gold Award (2021)Hotels.com Loved by Guests Awards (2021)Agoda Gold Circle Awards (2023)These accolades reflect the hotel’s ability to balance modern hospitality standards with its charitable mission.
Guest reviews consistently praise its prime location, friendly staff, clean and spacious rooms, and stunning views of Victoria Harbour, particularly from higher floors and suites. The hotel’s proximity to the nightly “Symphony of Lights” laser show, a Guinness World Record holder, enhances its appeal for tourists
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The Salisbury YMCA in TST, Kowloon, Hong Kong - 2025
Current Status and Operations (2025)
As of 2025, The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong operates as a 4-star hotel with 372 rooms and suites, rated 8.4 by recent guests on platforms like Booking.com. Its facilities include:
Accommodations:
Modern rooms with business desks, LCD televisions, minibars, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Select rooms offer panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island’s skyline.
Dining:
The Haven and The Mall Cafe, offering diverse culinary options, plus room service.
Recreation:
Indoor pool, jacuzzi, fitness center, climbing walls, squash courts, basketball court, and children’s playground.
Event Spaces:
Banquet and conference rooms for weddings, corporate functions, and community events.
Community Services:
Educational programs, kindergartens, and support for youth, children, and under-resourced communities, funded by hotel revenue.The hotel’s location remains its strongest asset, with a 9.7 rating for couples due to its proximity to cultural attractions, shopping malls (Harbour City, Ocean Centre), and transportation hubs. It is a 40-minute drive from Hong Kong International Airport and a short walk from major landmarks.
Critical Analysis: Evolution and Unique Identity
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong’s evolution into a hotel is a pragmatic response to Hong Kong’s economic and tourism growth, particularly in TST. Unlike traditional hotels, it retains its charitable ethos, using profits to fund community programs rather than maximizing shareholder value. This hybrid model allows it to offer competitive rates—starting at $78 per night in some cases—while maintaining high standards, making it a cost-effective alternative to luxury hotels like The Peninsula.
However, some guests note that the hotel’s interior and decor may appear dated, suggesting a need for periodic modernization to compete with newer properties.
The 3-day housekeeping policy, while environmentally conscious, may inconvenience guests accustomed to daily cleaning. These critiques highlight the challenge of balancing affordability, sustainability, and guest expectation
The hotel’s community focus sets it apart from competitors. By integrating services like kindergartens, educational programs, and recreational facilities, it fosters a sense of community rare in urban hotels. Its commitment to social impact aligns with the YMCA’s global mission, making it a socially responsible choice for travelers.
Conclusion
The Salisbury - YMCA of Hong Kong has transformed from a modest charitable organization in 1901 into a renowned 4-star hotel by 2025, while preserving its mission of social good.
Its prime location in TST, coupled with modern amenities and a community-oriented approach, has made it a beloved institution for both travelers and locals. The hotel’s ability to adapt to Hong Kong’s changing landscape while funding programs for youth and under-resourced communities underscores its unique place in the city’s history and hospitality sector.
My insider tip
Please note that in general if you book a tour on Viator or Tripadvisor you generally have NO control over what guide will lead your Private Tour of Hong Kong and this is the most important component of the tour. I urge you to check the actual company website and book via their website and do not forget to read Tripadvisor reviews as well.
© Jamie Lloyd | J3 Consultants Hong Kong | J3 Private Tours Hong Kong |
| 2010 - 2025 All rights reserved. |
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