Why are selfie shops and claw machine arcades popping up all over Hong Kong?
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In Mong Kok, one of Hong Kong’s most bustling commercial areas and long a magnet for visitors and locals alike, claw machines are the big draw these days.
There are at least 10 arcades of different sizes along a single stretch, all packed with brightly lit game boxes filled with gimmicky items that lure passers-by to take a chance to win a prize.
The smallest arcades are just 100 sq ft. Larger ones occupy two floors of shop space.
Players pay at least HK$5 (64 US cents) to stand at their chosen box, manipulating joysticks that guide electronic claws to grab everything from keychains to bracelets, dolls, plush toys and even branded items.
Teenagers, young couples and families pack the arcades, which are unstaffed. Well-positioned cameras keep watch, doing away with the need for employees.
Mong Kok also has several self-service selfie shops, where customers walk in, select an outfit from a range of costumes and headgear, dress up and snap photos of themselves.
