Hong Kong's Hidden Gems #2 -- Hong Kong Jockey Club Central Stanley Street Shop
The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) owns all government approved sports betting and lottery stations in Hong Kong. These establishments normally offer few reasons for me to visit. But I recently ventured into one HKJC venue. This Stanley Street branch in busy Central has won the title of the luckiest (or most unlucky if you are the HKJC) betting site in recent years. Quite a few have won the grand prize in lottery, known locally as Mark Six, from this premise. The shop has recently undergone a major facelift. It now houses two restaurants, various horse racing and lottery artefacts, along with fun facts showcases. Upon entry, there is an unexpected caravan setting that provides a homey feel for visitors. A real lottery ball drum machine is also on display. Opposite it is a historical wall detailing the evolution of Mark 6 over the years. Did you know that the lottery went from thirty-six numbers in 1976 to forty-nine in 2002? This made your already low odds of winning much w