"New Use for Old Barracks You'd never know there could be such a serene escape from neighboring buzz until you've discovered Hong Kong 's Asia Society Center. Located just a few steps away from Pacific Place mall and the surrounding major hotels, this architectural and cultural gem is worthy of every cliche. First of all, the grounds already tell a tale. The Asia Society is built on the Old Victoria Barracks, Former Explosives Magazine site. You'll enter the main building and be led through a maze of walkways, embedded in lush greenery - it's hard to believe just how quiet it could be in the city center. You'll pass old British military buildings, too. There are often rare shows on exhibit here, like the one by the acclaimed Japanese artist Yoshitomo Nara, which we were there for. We went excited for the show, but even more surprised by how much we loved the location itself. Best of all, entrance is free. There's also a popular restaurant, named Ammo, on site."