Multimodal Hong Kong: Perceiving pedestrian footbridge spaces in a high-density area through soundscape and smellscape perspectives

In prior research on Hong Kong's acoustic environment, noise has been the primary focus, highlighting its diverse sources and its detrimental impact on physical and mental health. However, there is still limited exploration of multi-sensory perspectives in Hong Kong. Mong Kok is one of the world's most densely populated areas, with a density of 130,000 people per square kilometre. Amid the bustling urban life, interactions and activities of residents, tourists, and vendors contribute to the complex soundscape. The area offers a diverse array of markets, street food, and intense aromas, creating a dynamic smellscape. This study focuses on the Mong Kok East pedestrian footbridge (connecting Mong Kok East Station to Nathan Road, approximately 400 metres), selecting six locations on and beneath the footbridge. During the on-site sensory walk experiment (n=30), we recorded ambient sounds and reproduced the soundscape in the laboratory to compare experiences stemming from various sensory modes. The sensory walk includes evaluating soundscape, smellscape, and an overall assessment. Participant feedback helps highlight what they are most concerned about, and the usage patterns and preferences of the six locations reflect the desired soundscape and smellscape, guiding recommendations for sensory design in high-density spaces.