Dialogue in the Dark
What it is all about
Dialogue in the Dark offers the Hongkong tourist a travel experience like no other. It is a 75-minute walking journey through a room that closely simulates the streets of Hong Kong, but in total darkness, and led by blind guides. The concept started in Germany, with the hope of promoting public awareness, and the goal of inclusion for the visually impaired.
There is a maximum of 8 people per tour, we were 6 in ours, which I feel is a good number. Before the tour began, we were asked to put all our valuables in the locker. We couldn’t take anything inside except for HKD10, which was to be used for a segment of the tour. We were also handed a cane.
The Experience
Admittedly, I had no expectations when I arranged for this tour. I found the concept interesting and since I had seen the realistic Hong Kong sights many times in the past, I wanted to give this simulation a shot. In my mind, I had thought that “my eyes would simply adjust to the dark” as they usually do, but I was wrong, they never did. I could not see anything at all. We were led through the entire labyrinth only by the voice of our guide, Daniel.
As our tour began, were led “outside” where we could smell the pine trees, feel our feet against the grass/soil, touch the moist leaves of a tree, and hear the birds chirping. When our guide asked us where we thought we were, everyone chorused, “At the park!”. With that, he started hitting on a large wooden thing and asked us what we thought it was. We all surmised it was a bench, and all of us took turns assisting each other take a seat. As each one maneuvers in the dark, with only a cane and a voice in the darkness as guides, it is highly likely for you to bump into each other. I didn’t mind this at all; it was part of the experience.
After the “outdoors”, we were led to cross “Victoria Harbour” aboard a “ferry”. We were guided to “embark”, going down a ramp and finding our seats in the dark. Then, the engine started, and strong winds blew in our faces. It was a refreshing experience. I had just done this boat ride a day before, the real one of course, and I was mesmerized by the vibrance and the energy of the harbor. Now, in total darkness, I learned to appreciate the feel of the wind and the sound of the other ferries as they passed each other by.
After the “ferry ride”, we had to cross the street. That familiar ticking sound of the Hong Kong pedestrian stop lights helped us to know when to go or not to go. That ticking sound which seemed to annoy me when I was above ground, proved to be of great importance to the visually impaired. This became an eye-opener for me, no pun intended.
We were led to the town’s local “stores” and the “market”, where we had to name what we were shopping for. We were using our hands, trying to guess the different grocery items. The surroundings seemed noisy, like people were talking and engaging with each other. I grabbed something circular which I knew to be an orange, followed by an apple. I was in the fruits section. Others identified pasta, canned goods, rice and some local Chinese delicacies.
Then we were led to the “cinema”. We all had to find our own seats, with the help of the guide. We used our hands to touch the walls, to make sure we knew what was in front of us. I guess, for the visually impaired, staying close to walls and hand rails is a lot safer than being in the middle. At that point, I was beginning to wonder how a blind person could appreciate a movie. The music started playing, and here we were, so relaxed on what felt like lazy boy chairs. We let our imagination soar and made up stories in our heads. There were no dialogues in this film, just music. After, our guide asked us after what we thought the movie was about, and though our views differed, we all had answers.
The final segment of the tour was a “café” or a “restaurant”. We were all led to a bar where we had to purchase drinks of our choosing. (This is where you use your $10) I took the milk tea; others bought Coke or juice. Then we sat ourselves down.
This was when the guide divulged that he was actually blind, and he shared his story of how he lost his sight. Everyone in the group shared their learnings. I, for one, found it an overwhelming experience to rely on my other senses other than my sight.
Dialogue in the Dark is truly a remarkable and enlightening experience that leaves you richer and more aware of your surroundings. I definitely recommend it and urge you all to try.
Note : Pictures are put for representation only as pictures are not allowed inside
Note: Not for those afraid of the dark and the claustrophobic. Also, refrain from using neon or light emitting clothing and shoes.
The Details
Address: 2樓215鋪, Nob Hill Square, Mei Foo Sun Chuen, Hong Kong
Website: http://www.dialogue-experience.com.hk/
Facebook: https://www.face book.com/DiDHK
Ticketing:
| Weekdays (Tur to Fri) | Sat, Sun & Public Holidays | |
| Adult | $160 | $180 |
| Concessionary
· Full-time student (Local and overseas) · Elderly (aged 60 or above) · Adult birthday month discount · People with disabilities |
$80 | $90 |
Opening Hours
Tue – Sun & Public Holidays: 10:00am – 7:30 pm
*Closed on Mondays
How to Get There:
Mei Foo Exit G
Mei Foo Exit C1
This was really useful, we used it to lead us to the place itself.
Sounds really interresting- feel they should bring it to London, but if I ever get the chance to go to Hong Kong I’ll be sure to check it out !
It was, very thought provoking of the actual experience of the visually impaired. And yes please do experience it yourself as well!
Wow, this is the first time I’ve ever heard of this. Cool idea. Will remember to try this out the next time I visit Hong Kong 🙂
Hong Kong is a great place and one of my favorite cities in the world with so many great attractions! But this one definitely on top of my musts in Hong Kong!
The Dialogue in the Dark sounds like an interesting experience. I’m not sure if I’d try it – but I’ll have some time to think about this until I’ll be there.
You should, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting the Fragrant Harbour!
This looks really cool! I definitely wanna give this a try. I did the Dine In The Dark in Singapore but this looks like it’s der gonna be taking you on another level.
Oh wow, how was that for you? 🙂 Cool
It was great. Our servers were actually visually impaired and it was a pretty cool experience.
I’ve read about Dialogue in the Dark a couple of months ago from a local blogger there in HK and found it quite intriguing. Hope they make a similar attraction here in Manila soon!
They definitely should noh? Let’s write a letter to the founders, shall we? 🙂
Makes me even more excited for my Hongkong Trip! I would surely check out dialogue in the dark. 😀
Yey, it really is a one of a kind experience. Let me know your thoughts after please!
It must have been an amazing experience. This is a great opportunity for tourists!
Honestly, I was scared at first. We waited and waited for the first few minutes for our eyes to adjust to the light but they didn’t. It was pitch black but the experience was superb! A must to do really in Hong Kong
I think I saw a place like this in Hamburg last year. I didn’t get to go as I was only there for a quick weekend but I had heard very good things about it. It looks like it is spreading around the world too.
A must for every city, if I must say!
This sounds so intriguing, and ironically I just read an article a few weeks ago about the one in Germany! Crazy, seems like something everyone should experience at least once?
Once or twice even! Two (or 4 including my feet) Thumbs up for Dialogue in the Dark!
I have read about the dialogue in the dark sometime back and it sounds like a great experience.
It was great, a unique experience meant to be experienced by anyone visiting Hong Kong, really!
What an interesting experience and such a great way to not only appreciate a new city but gain a new respect for those dealing with visual impairment. It’s crazy all the things your body can sense without using your eyes, I think it’s something we typically take for granted.
Yes, makes me think of the article I read about a few days ago about the girl who’s lifelong dream to become blind finally became real after she put chemicals in her eyes. The experience really does heighten the other senses in all honesty!
This would be such an interesting experience for me as there is nothing to do around here. I won’t get my hopes up that I’ll ever make it to the 75-minute walking journey, so I’m glad to have experienced it in your eyes through your post and photos.
You’re very much welcome, hope you get to experience it first hand too!
What an amazing and interesting experience. I would be keen to try it some day, if only to contribute to an interesting, meaningful social enterprise.
Oh please do and let me know how your experience went!
This looks like a unique experience. The good part about this is that you get to use the creativity of your mind.
Exactly the point of the activity. Thanks for the visit!
Amazing experience and idea. I would like to see this in other parts of the world.
Yes, as I’ve I think every city/country needs this kind of attraction/experience
Wow this is a very different experience. I think i may struggle in the dark unfamiliar experience but it would definitely be something to try. thankyou for sharing.
It was quite difficult and worrysome at first but i guess, you just need to do what you have to do and cope to get through things, just like in life huh? 🙂
I love this tour as it helps to show people how the blind cope day to day.
Very very true, thanks for the visit as always Tara!
Wow what an amazing experience!
If only I could gather all my friends now to experience Dialogue in the Dark as I have, I would. 🙂
I am not sure that I want to spend that much money to experience this, but I admit I am curious. There must be something there that it is being done in cities all over the world. – Fred
Well it does have a somewhat hefty pricetag but it’s a once in a lifetime experience that’s really enriching. 🙂 Thanks Fred!
Well, never heard of this idea before and it’s truly amazing and wonderful experience. It reflects the beauty of a concept.
That’s very true, it’s a very beautiful concept that was beautifully executed into real life!
This really is a great and a must try experience. I’ve seen something like this on a popular blogger’s post although it was a dining experience only. There was a course meal wherein you wouldn’t know what they will serve unless you get a mouthful of the dish given.
Ah yes, dining in the dark! Thinking of trying either soon? 🙂
This makes me want to visit Hong Kong even more. Very interesting!
Yes Hong Kong seriously is one of the most interesting cities in the world! Always full of surprises!
That sounds like an experience we should all try and you are brave for doing it. I have heard of dining in the dark, a friend of mine did it but this one seems like it would be a fuller experience.
Oh you can say that again! Let me know if you’ve braved doing it too! Cheers!
I have never heard about this but it looks cool and a great experience. i wish i could have a chance to try this.
If there’s a will, there’s a way! Haha seriously go for it!
I’ve been to Hong Kong and I loved its a busy city, a lot of good foods!
Yes, yes, and yes! Great food with lots of exciting things to do and see!
That is so interesting and sounds like it would be a great experience to do. Never heard of it before. Glad you enjoyed it.
Thank you. It was a great and different experience and I love how they are promoting social awareness 🙂
I visited the Dialogue in the Dark in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia too. It was indeed a very very educational “excursion”.
Oh there’s one in KL too? That must be different simulation though cause they tailored this to HK streets. Perhaps I can try the one in KL too
This does sound amazing. Something a bit different from the normal, which is what we’re all looking for I suppose. I’m not great in enclosed dark spaces, but I’d still give it a go if I came across it.
I was going for the same. Out of the ordinary. I really loved the experience with Dialogue in the dark
I have always wanted to do this! It sounds amazing!
Amazing, exhilarating, and terrifying all at the same time! But wonderful and life learning experience over all!
It’s been a long time since I have last been to HongKong. This sounds really interesting. I will keep this in mind on my next visit.
Awesome, keep me in the loop how that turns out for you!
This is is a really cool idea! May try this out when we visit Hong Kong.
Yes, you should! Enjoy!
Oh wow! What an experience that must be! Walking in the dark to my bathroom is a challenge let along this distance! Would love to try ti.
Hahaha that’s a good way to see and compare the experience! Terrifying at first but very liberating in the end!
Wow! Sounds like a really interesting thing to do! Would certainly try it out 🙂
Simone x
Thanks for the visit Simone! Hit me up if you’ve tried Dialogue in the Dark in Hong Kong (or anywhere) too!
Wow. This sounds like such an intense experience. Especially with your tour guide.
Yes, that was the biggest most shocking reveal! Thanks for the visit!
It is these kinds of experiences that really tell us how privileged we are, I love that the experience was very holistic, including all kinds of activities a visually impaired person would have to face on a day to day basis.
That’s the perfect word to describe the Dialogue in the Dark Experience- holistic! Loved how they meticulously incorporated other sensory factors to make up for the lack of vision. Brilliant idea indeed!
Sounds Great! i love to take walk tours specially if i had some extra time 🙂 My schedule is usually packed TTATT
Wow, this is pretty interesting. It’s the first time I heard about it! Never been in Hong Kong, but will keep this on my note! 🙂
Great, let me know if you’ve gone through it and let me know your thoughts!
Omg this sounds like such a neat experience! Very educational!
It was, unique, haunting, and inspirational!
What a unique idea you have there! Kudos to you!
A moving experience. Count your blessings after.
This is extremely fascinating and very moving to read. I did one similar in London and really changed your perspective of things!