Farewell to a Legacy: Hong Kong’s ‘King of Umbrellas’ Retires After Nearly Two Centuries of Service
In a poignant farewell that resonated deeply within the community, a significant number of residents gathered at a modest shop in Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong, to honor Yau Yiu-wai, dubbed the “king of umbrellas,” as he prepares to retire from his family’s longstanding umbrella repair business. The Sun Rise Company, established in 1842 during the Qing Dynasty, has been a symbol of resilience and craftsmanship, operating for 183 years under the stewardship of the Yau family.
The business has weathered substantial challenges, including wartime turmoil that necessitated its relocation to Hong Kong, where it found a home among the vibrant local markets. However, the effects of modern consumer behavior, particularly the shift towards online shopping, coupled with Yau’s advancing age, have compelled him to announce the shop’s closure, effective at the end of the year. “We’ve upheld our family’s reputation, and this legacy has come down to me… It truly pains me to end it,” Yau reflected, expressing sorrow for the perceived disappointment of his ancestors.
The emotional response to the shop’s impending closure highlights its significance within the community, as captured by social media reactions decrying the loss of a cherished local business. One social media user described the situation as “another loss of a wonderful community business,” while local resident Peter Tam emphasized the loss of heritage, stating, “These are all pieces of history. And we ourselves are becoming history too.”
Yau, now 73, dedicated his legacy to delivering durable umbrellas and focusing on sustainability. “This is for environmental protection. It’s a social responsibility,” he articulated, underscoring the unique approach of mending rather than discarding broken items. His philosophy of repair mirrors a broader global narrative concerning sustainability and environmental consciousness, appealing to eco-friendly practices in consumer behavior.
The personal connections fostered in Yau’s shop added yet another layer to its significance; customers often brought debris-laden umbrellas not merely out of need but as symbols of hope and affection in their relationships. “He genuinely cared about selling customers a good, practical umbrella,” remarked 20-year-old student Niki Lum, attesting to the genuine care and dedication Yau extended to his clientele.
Despite Yau’s heartfelt commitment to his work, he acknowledges the challenging realities facing traditional trades. He noted that fewer than five umbrella repairmen remain in Hong Kong, indicating a troubling trend toward the declining viability of time-honored crafts. Now, compelled by age and health considerations, including a past stroke, Yau must step back, leaving a legacy that many in the community hold dear.
As his retirement draws near, Yau leaves behind not just a business, but a heartfelt legacy intertwined with familial pride, community support, and environmental awareness. His journey reminds us of the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, a narrative that resonates far beyond the confines of a small shop in Hong Kong.
