Hong Kong Bids Farewell to “King of Umbrellas” as Historic Repair Shop Closes
In a poignant farewell, residents of Hong Kong congregated at the Sun Rise Company, a storied umbrella repair shop, to honor its owner, Yau Yiu-wai, affectionately known as the city’s “king of umbrellas.” Yau, 73, has announced that he will close the family-operated business by the end of the year, marking the end of an era for the 183-year-old establishment founded by his ancestors during the Qing Dynasty.
The Sun Rise Company has been a fixture of the Hong Kong community, originally established in 1842 in Guangzhou by the Yau family. Following a tumultuous history that included the upheaval of wartime relocations, the shop settled in the bustling Sham Shui Po district, where it became synonymous with quality repairs and personal service.
Despite its rich heritage, the business faces a decline in patronage, largely attributed to changing consumer habits where online shopping has eclipsed traditional brick-and-mortar stores. “We’ve upheld our family’s reputation, and this legacy has come down to me… It truly pains me to end it,” Yau expressed to reporters. His deep sense of responsibility towards his ancestors and the community was palpable as he reflected on this significant transition.
Yau’s repair shop has witnessed generations of customers, including students and couples, all of whom have cherished the emotional significance of their umbrellas—many seeing them as symbols of love and care. “He genuinely cared about selling customers a good, practical umbrella,” said 20-year-old student Niki Lum, underscoring the bond between the customers and Yau’s personalized service.
As social media buzzes with nostalgia, many locals articulate feelings of loss as they witness the diminishing presence of traditional shops. Resident Peter Tam, 60, lamented the fading of historical establishments: “It’s such a pity… These are all pieces of history, and we ourselves are becoming history too.”
Yau’s approach to repair has set him apart from the typical retail model, emphasizing the virtues of sustainability and durability over mere commercial profit. “This is for environmental protection. It’s a social responsibility,” he noted, highlighting his commitment to combatting waste in a society increasingly focused on convenience over longevity. Yet, the umbrella repair trade remains precarious—Yau estimates that fewer than five skilled repairmen like himself are still operating in Hong Kong.
With advancing age and health concerns, including a prior stroke, Yau has recognized that he must step away from the craft he so passionately cherishes. “I’m getting old. You have to forgive me, I just can’t carry on anymore,” he admitted.
As Yau prepares to close the doors of the Sun Rise Company, the local community reflects on the significance of this small yet emblematic business. In an era of rapid change, the farewell to Yau’s repair shop serves as a reminder of the value of tradition in the face of modernization, and the necessity of cherishing the stories embedded within local enterprises—stories that resonate with shared history and cultural heritage.
