EAST Hong Kong

Swire’s Aesthetic Stands Alone in Hong Kong As November arrives in Hong Kong, the summer heat fades completely. A perfect, gentle coolness fills the air. The wind from Victoria Harbour carries a moist, oceanic scent. Aboard the Star Ferry, the crossing is slow and steady. The wake trailing behind the boat resembles a fading ribbon. The city has shed the bustle of peak season, yet maintains a composed rhythm. Deep within the fabric of this city, the property landscape is shaped by a few giants. Among them, Swire maintains a quiet, steadfast presence, exuding a distinct character. It does not chase fleeting trends or succumb to the restlessness of capital. Instead, it has carved its own path, one defined by space, humanity, and time. A concrete example of this philosophy can be found at EAST Hong Kong. This modern residence, located on the eastern side of Hong Kong Island, set out from the beginning to redefine the boundaries of business travel. Last year, the brand formally introduced its "The Alternative" concept. This was less of a rebranding and more of an affirmation of its identity. Through restrained design, open spaces, and a sense of fluid daily life, it offers business travelers another possibility. As autumn deepens, moments like this make Swire's unique appeal even clearer. Its aesthetic sense grows naturally from the details. Swire's roots run deep to Hong Kong's industrial boom in the late 19th century. When the sugar refinery's chimney rose above the barren shoreline of Quarry Bay, and the shipyard's anvils rang out at Asia's busiest pace, it was more than just a company. It was a pioneer of the city. From sugarcane fields to deep-water ports, from the bubbles in a bottle of Coca-Cola to the end of the container shipping era, it has always moved with an almost intuitive sense of timing. The sugar refinery ceased operations, the shipyard relocated, and the land was reborn. Instead of clinging to past glory, Swire transformed these retired industrial sites into a foundation for new growth. While not chasing every trend, it consistently plants the seeds of the future in the gaps between change. This century-spanning steadiness is not an obsession with speed, but rather a testament to Swire's trust in time. Today, Swire has long transcended the boundaries of a single industry. It has woven an intricate network spanning Hong Kong and mainland China. It understands the daily pace of families at Cityplaza and recognizes the spiritual yearnings of urbanites under the lights of Taikoo Li. Its commercial reach extends from the vibrancy of local communities to the iconic skylines of major cities, yet it maintains a rare balance. It is neither alienating in its high-end offerings nor ordinary in its mainstream projects. In Hong Kong, it is a tangible part of the city's growth story. On the mainland, it is a model often studied. But wherever it operates, Swire is essentially doing the same thing. It uses space as its pen and time as its ink to write stories of sustainable living. Change happens naturally within its carefully maintained spaces and details. And perhaps, EAST Hong Kong is the most accessible entry point for understanding Swire. It does not boast opulent decor. Instead, it speaks to guests accustomed to a fast-paced world through spacious layouts and stunning window views. Here, the lobby functions as the city's living room, the pool mirrors the sky, and the gym sets the rhythm for the body. EAST stands quietly in Quarry Bay, away from the noise of Central, yet feels closer to the essence of daily life than any landmark. Behind its accessible price point is a commitment to value. If the grand narrative of Swire requires time to fully appreciate, then EAST is like a booklet you can open anytime. It is clean, smart, and reassuring. Just like Hong Kong itself, it offers a perfect harbor to pause and rest.

Loved my stay at EAST Hong Kong! The location is very convenient, right by the MTR or a quick 10-minute car ride to Central. The rooms are modern, comfy, and full of thoughtful touches like USB-C plugs, filtered water stations (a rare gem I made use of daily), soft robes, and harbor views that make mornings and the sunset extra special. The hotel feels built for both work and play: there’s a modern gym, pool, and plenty of space to meet in the lobby. I loved grabbing my morning coffee from their coffee shop featuring No Coffee from Japan, and also spent time at Sugar, their super chic rooftop bar which served excellent cocktails. Stylish, convenient, and full of charm, I’d absolutely stay again!

Room was spacious. I asked for a higher floor and I got a higher floor at level 29. Overlooking the hill but it was a food view after all. The staff were very friendly. Greeted me good morning and asked if my room needs cleaning up, or just a change if towel. They helped me to print some documents also, and helped me when I had to sort out some immigration-related matters. Good location, reachable from D exit of Tai Koo station. Situated next to quite a big mall. Definitely enjoyed my stay at this hotel.

The quality of service at this hotel has noticeably declined over the past few years. When I stayed here five years ago, the service was decent—certainly not exceptional, but acceptable for a 5-star establishment. Unfortunately, it no longer meets that standard. Unless there's a significant improvement, I won't be returning to what now feels like a 3-star experience at a 5-star price.