Typhoon shelters are places in Hong Kong where fishing boats can take refuge from typhoons, usually located in bays or harbors, where most of the passageways connecting them to the sea are blocked by man-made breakwaters, and boats can only enter and exit through narrow passageways.

Life in the Typhoon Shelter

Prior to the 1990s, a sizable population made their homes in the Typhoon Shelter, many of whom were descended from fishermen or watermen. They established a water culture that was distinct from the mainstream culture of Hong Kong. The waterborne culture is well-developed in many ways, such as unique marriage ceremonies, eating habits, singing and accents. The famous Chinese dish "fried crab in typhoon shelter" is a waterfront eatery originating from the typhoon shelter

The typhoon shelter is also a brand name

In 1998, the Shanghai Typhoon Shelter Teahouse Co Ltd opened the first "Typhoon Shelter Teahouse" at 99 Jiangning Road in Shanghai. "