Dying art in modern times: Hong Kong’s bone-setting trade nears breaking point
Traditional Chinese treatment for sprains, bruises, bumps and injuries fails to lure younger customers as older masters retire
02:17
Meet the Hong Kong ‘bone-setting’ master who aims to revitalise an ancient trade
In Hong Kong’s ageing neighbourhood of Cheung Sha Wan, an old street store stands out for its unusual charm.
Against the backdrop of its pinkish walls and the classic black-and-white floor tiles, more than 20,000 skeleton figurines are on display, in striking contrast to the surrounding Chinese-style homes.
The eclectic decor reflects the creative spirit of Leung Tin-chu, a 49-year-old bone-setting master determined to breathe new life into his decades-old family clinic passed down from his parents.
“We also have many skeleton toys here because I specialise in treating bones,” Leung said.
“We also have special designs or words on our herbal poultices, so people can take photos and post them on social media. We are trying to adapt to the times.”
Bone-setting, or tit-dar in Cantonese, literally translates as “falling and hitting”.