In an unexpected result coinciding with World Toilet Day on November 19, the Lan Kwai Fong public restroom—a facility frequently utilized by Hong Kong’s late-night revelers—has been recognized as the cleanest in the city. The annual public toilet rankings released by the Hong Kong Toilet Association (HKTA) placed the compact washroom, situated near a 7-Eleven in an alley adjacent to a garden, in the coveted top spot, defying assumptions about cleanliness in high-traffic entertainment districts.
This designation is particularly noteworthy given Lan Kwai Fong’s reputation as a bustling nightlife hub, typically associated with boisterous crowds and heavy facility use. The surprising outcome underscores the critical role of dedicated maintenance staff in upholding public health standards, even under challenging circumstances.
Dedicated Staff Elevate Standards
The Lan Kwai Fong site outperformed facilities across Hong Kong, earning high marks for its consistently clean and odor-free environment. Henry Hung, president of the HKTA, attributed the success directly to the diligence of the on-site staff. He noted the presence of what he termed a “toilet host” who was “cleaning all the time” and routinely checked the facilities to ensure immediate sanitation.
While many patrons in the area might opt for restrooms within the specific bars and clubs they visit, the round-the-clock attention given to this specific public location ensures its impeccable condition. This success story serves as a prime example of how proactive, continuous cleaning protocols can dramatically impact user experience and public perception.
Beyond the champion, the HKTA’s list highlighted other well-maintained sites, cementing the reputation of specific facilities across the territory. The Kam Tin Shi public toilet in Yuen Long secured the second position, followed by the Catchick Street Garden public toilet in Kennedy Town at third. The latter location’s third-place ranking represents a remarkable transformation, considering it was cited as Hong Kong’s worst public toilet just two years prior, illustrating the impact of focused investment and improved management.
Identifying Areas for Urgent Improvement
Conversely, the survey also identified the facilities most in need of urgent attention. This year, the title of Hong Kong’s worst public toilet went to the Kowloon City Road public toilet in To Kwa Wan. The HKTA report described this facility as dirty, afflicted by a foul odor, and suffering from persistently wet floors—conditions that raise significant hygiene and safety concerns.
The findings from the comprehensive cleanliness report are being used by the HKTA to pressure authorities and urban management bodies. The association is strongly urging the government to prioritize the refurbishment of aging public toilets and commit to stricter maintenance standards city-wide to safeguard public health and improve the communal infrastructure used by millions daily.
The disparity between top-performing and neglected facilities highlights the need for consistent resource allocation and oversight. Improving infrastructure like public sanitation is crucial not only for local residents but also for maintaining Hong Kong’s image as a high-quality global destination. Investing in basic, necessary facilities such as public restrooms remains a fundamental step in ensuring a high quality of life for all urban inhabitants.