Sai Wan Ho Mall Toilet Renovation to End 'World's Smelliest' Reputation
HK01 · 2 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
The Tai On Building (太安樓) shopping mall in Sai Wan Ho has become infamous online for its male public toilet, which netizens have labelled the "world's smelliest toilet." After years of complaints, renovation works commenced in September 2026, with the male toilet closure beginning October 5 and an expected completion date of November 18 . The shopping centre management has posted notices directing visitors to alternative facilities, including the Sai Wan Ho Municipal Services Building public toilet approximately three minutes' walk away and the Hoi Ning Street public toilet .
Key Points
- Male toilet renovation began October 5, with full completion targeted for November 18; drainage works started in September
- Notices reveal that in mid-March, both male and female toilets had their water tanks vandalised with medicine bottles and scattered money placed inside
- Tai On Building merchant and optician shop owner Mr. Leung stated the toilets were originally locked facilities for merchants only, but outsiders repeatedly broke in and destroyed equipment
- Female toilet facilities have deteriorated severely, with broken doors allowing men to accidentally enter while women were using the facilities
- Management has suggested alternative public toilets at Sai Wan Ho Municipal Services Building and Hoi Ning Street during the construction period
Why It Matters
This renovation addresses years of public frustration with a facility that has become a local embarrassment and an obstacle to the shopping centre's appeal. The experience of Tai On Building highlights the broader challenge Hong Kong's older shopping centres face in maintaining public facilities amid recurring vandalism, raising questions about long-term solutions beyond physical upgrades .
This renovation addresses years of public frustration with a facility that has become a local embarrassment and an obstacle to the shopping centre's appeal. The experience of Tai On Building highlights the broader challenge Hong Kong's older shopping centres face in maintaining public facilities amid recurring vandalism, raising questions about long-term solutions beyond physical upgrades .