Journeys Within Travel Blog

Tai Kwun, Hong Kong’s premier center for heritage and arts, unveils its latest innovative program, “Book of Changes: The Art of Basil Pao,” an ambitious photography exhibition running until February 20, 2026, that utilizes abstract visuals to explore the intricate connections between the millennia-old Chinese classic, the I Ching, and contemporary cultural identity, offering visitors both artistic contemplation and interactive engagement with ancient wisdom.

Exploring the Intersection of Art and Ancient Philosophy

The exhibition centers on the distinguished work of photographer Basil Pao, reinterpreting the precepts of the I Ching, or the Book of Changes, one of the seminal texts of Chinese literature and philosophy. Originating during the Western Zhou period, the I Ching is a foundational system of divination and moral guidance, categorized by 64 hexagram formations that seekers traditionally interpret for wisdom regarding personal dilemmas and future paths. Pao, known internationally for his artistic contributions to Michael Palin’s acclaimed BBC travel series and subsequent large-format publications, applies his unique visual sensibility to these ancient concepts.

Pao’s interpretation is showcased across two distinct photography series, visually synthesizing the philosophical structure of the I Ching. One series, “The Great Walls of China,” presents images inspired by Abstract Expressionism, where the composition and alignment of the photographs correspond directly with the 64 hexagrams, creating a visual dialogue between China’s monumental history and its enduring philosophical code. The second series, “Glimpses of Silence,” shifts focus to the immense power of nature, utilizing vast landscapes to meditate on humanity’s place within the cosmos, a core tenet often explored within the Book of Changes.

Bridging Heritage with Interactive Experience

The exhibition demonstrates Tai Kwun’s commitment to making historical and artistic heritage accessible. Instead of merely viewing static displays, visitors can actively engage with the source material through an on-site interactive experience called “Consulting the Book of Changes.” This feature allows individuals to delve into the divination process of the I Ching, seeking their own philosophical guidance and prospective insights.

Tai Kwun has thoughtfully integrated opportunities for tangible takeaways. Visitors can acquire an exclusive postcard featuring artwork from Pao’s “The Great Walls of China” series as a memento. Furthermore, members of the Tai Kwun Fan loyalty program are offered a special complimentary mailing service, enabling them to compose and dispatch their postcards to local addresses directly from the venue—a unique way to share the exhibition’s thoughtful impact.

Basil Pao: A Life Behind the Lens

Before establishing himself as a globally recognized photographer, Pao began his creative career as an art director and designer, notably contributing to the visual aesthetics of music records and posters. His transition to travel photography captured the world’s imagination, cementing his reputation for blending narrative depth with breathtaking composition. His current exhibition at Tai Kwun signifies a deep artistic return to his cultural roots, applying his modern mastery of light and form to illuminate the oldest surviving text of Chinese culture.

This extended presentation offers an enriching experience that transcends a typical art show, providing critical context on how millennia-old Chinese thought continues to inspire contemporary art and reflection. Tai Kwun’s “Book of Changes” serves as a crucial platform for exploring the intersection of global artistic vision and profound Eastern philosophy.

Big JJ Seafood Hotpot, a highly sought-after destination for vibrant Hong Kong-style hotpot dining, is preparing to vacate its current, bustling location on Wo On Lane following the Chinese New Year in 2026. After becoming a fixture in the local culinary scene since its inception in 2020, the restaurant is set to move to a larger facility within core Central, citing structural limitations and capacity issues at its present site. The popular establishment expects to unveil its enhanced venue around March 2026, promising patrons an elevated dining experience and expanded offerings.

The restaurant, celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and dedication to quality ingredients, has cultivated a dedicated clientele over the past four years. Big JJ is renowned for its diverse selection of simmering broths, premium fresh-cut beef, and distinctive house-made accompaniments, including buoyant homemade fish balls and crispy fried fish skin. Furthermore, the establishment breaks the mold of typical hotpot venues with its unexpectedly sophisticated wine program, featuring a range that extends from contemporary natural wines to rare vintages, such as a 1992 Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Driving Factors for the Move

Management confirmed that the primary catalyst for the relocation is the state of the existing structure. “The structure and quality just aren’t ideal,” a representative shared, detailing the need for a modern, more robust facility. Capacity constraints have also become a significant impediment to growth, as the limited seating often fails to meet high demand.

The move is strategically planned to address these operational bottlenecks. The new location aims to significantly increase seating capacity and, critically, provide a substantially larger, state-of-the-art kitchen. This expansion is essential for supporting existing demand and enabling culinary advancement. “The new location will have a much better and bigger kitchen to support demand. Hopefully, we can elevate the food offering to another level,” the management stated, signalling an ambition to refine and expand their menu.

Maintaining the Core Central Presence

Although the precise new address remains undisclosed, Big JJ has assured customers that it will maintain its presence within the heart of Central. The new space is slated to be considerably bigger, incorporating modernized facilities and offering ample room for future expansion and innovation. The projected reopening timeline, slated for approximately March 2026, suggests a minimal disruption following the closure of the Wo On Lane location after the Chinese New Year festivities.

For devoted patrons hoping to experience the authentic energy of the original location one last time, the window of opportunity is closing. Guests are encouraged to visit the Wo On Lane restaurant before the Chinese New Year 2026 deadline. This transition marks an exciting chapter for Big JJ Seafood Hotpot, positioning the popular eatery for continued success and heightened culinary achievements in the years to come. Updates regarding the new address and specific opening details will be released as the project progresses.

HONG KONG—Tai Kwun, Hong Kong’s renowned heritage and arts complex, is hosting a significant new photography exhibition titled “Book of Changes: The Art of Basil Pao.” Running now through February 20, 2026, the installation merges contemporary fine art photography with one of China’s most foundational philosophical texts, the I Ching. The exhibition offers visitors an abstract, visual exploration of the scripture’s enduring influence on Chinese culture and life, showcasing the work of photographer Basil Pao.

Pao Translates Ancient Philosophy into Visual Art

The exhibit centers on the I Ching, or the Book of Changes, a classical Chinese divination and philosophy text dating back to the Western Zhou period. Considered one of the Five Classics of Chinese literature, the text outlines 64 distinct hexagram formations, which traditionally serve as a framework for moral guidance and understanding cosmic patterns.

Basil Pao, internationally recognized for his photographic contributions to Michael Palin’s BBC travel documentaries—often resulting in large-format books—began his career as an art director and designer for the music industry. In “Book of Changes,” Pao reinterprets the complex tenets of the I Ching through two distinct photographic series: The Great Walls of China and Glimpses of Silence.

In The Great Walls of China series, Pao draws inspiration from Abstract Expressionism. The photographs are curated and presented to correspond directly with the 64 hexagrams detailed in the I Ching, creating a visual dialogue between contemporary form and ancient structure. The stark, abstract imagery reflects the text’s focus on binary forces and perpetual transformation.

Conversely, the Glimpses of Silence series shifts focus toward the natural world. This collection features expansive landscape photography that emphasizes the overwhelming power of nature. These images invite deep contemplation on humankind’s position within the vastness of the universe, aligning with the Taoist and cosmological perspectives embedded in the Book of Changes.

Engaging with the Prophetic Text

Beyond the still images, the exhibition incorporates experiential elements designed to bridge the historical text with visitor interaction. An on-site interactive installation, “Consulting the Book of Changes,” allows attendees to engage directly with the divinatory properties of the I Ching. Participants are encouraged to seek guidance or a peek into their potential futures through this hands-on setup.

Furthermore, visitors can acquire an exclusive keepsake postcard featuring artwork from Pao’s The Great Walls of China series. Recognizing the venue’s role in the community, Tai Kwun extends a special mailing service for TK Fan members: members can write a message on their postcard and utilize the service to send it to any local address, merging the exhibition experience with personal connection.

Tai Kwun’s presentation of Basil Pao’s work offers a valuable opportunity to appreciate a cornerstone of Chinese literary heritage through a modern artistic lens. By synthesizing meticulous photography with philosophical depth, the exhibition succeeds in making an ancient and complex subject accessible and profoundly moving for a contemporary audience. For those interested in heritage, art, or cross-cultural interpretation, the exhibit is a mandatory stop in their itinerary.