Wan Chai ( ) is a metropolitan area situated at the western part of the
Wan Chai District on the northern shore of
Hong Kong Island, in Hong Kong. Its other boundaries are
Canal Road to the east, Arsenal Street to the west and
Bowen Road to the south. The area north of
Gloucester Road is often referred to as
Wan Chai North. Wan Chai is one of the busiest commercial areas in Hong Kong with offices of many small and medium-sized companies. Wan Chai North features office towers, parks, hotels and an international conference and exhibition centre. As one of the first areas developed in Hong Kong, the locale is densely populated yet with noticeable residential zones facing
urban decay. Arousing considerable public concern, the government has undertaken several
urban renewal projects in recent years. There are many unique landmarks and skyscrapers within the area, most notably the
Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC),
Central Plaza and
Hopewell Centre.