Chungking Mansions, a towering labyrinth in the heart of Hong Kong’s Tsim Sha Tsui district, has long been a magnet for budget travelers, backpackers, and those seeking an unfiltered taste of the city’s multicultural underbelly. Its reputation precedes it—cheap accommodations, vibrant chaos, and a hint of danger. For those willing to brave its corridors, finding a safe and decent room for under 300 HKD (approximately 38 USD) is both an art and a survival skill.

The building’s five blocks house over 100 guesthouses, many crammed into narrow floors with dimly lit hallways. Not all are created equal. While some offer surprisingly clean and secure lodgings, others are best avoided. The key lies in knowing where to look, whom to trust, and what red flags to spot before handing over cash.

The first rule of Chungking Mansions: never judge a room by its hallway. The building’s common areas are often grimy, with peeling paint and flickering lights, but behind some unassuming doors lie tidy, well-maintained rooms. Word of mouth is invaluable here. Seasoned travelers and long-term residents often know which guesthouses have reliable owners and fair prices. Online reviews can be helpful, but take them with a grain of salt—many are outdated or exaggerated.

Guesthouses on higher floors tend to be quieter and slightly more expensive, but the extra 20-50 HKD can mean better security and cleaner facilities. Rooms with shared bathrooms are the norm at this price point, but the best ones are cleaned daily and stocked with basic toiletries. Avoid places where the bathroom smells persistently damp or where locks appear flimsy.

Security is non-negotiable. The safest guesthouses have 24-hour front desks, CCTV in hallways, and metal grilles on windows. Some even require keycard access after certain hours. If a proprietor hesitates to show you these features, walk away. It’s also wise to choose a room near the elevator or staircase—navigating Chungking’s maze-like corridors at night can feel unnerving.

Beyond the physical space, the people matter just as much. Guesthouses run by families or long-term operators are generally safer than those frequently changing hands. A friendly but no-nonsense owner who asks for your passport and keeps a logbook is a good sign. Conversely, if staff seem evasive or pushy about payment, consider it a warning.

Chungking Mansions isn’t for everyone, but for those who approach it with caution and curiosity, it offers an unforgettable slice of Hong Kong life. The 300 HKD room exists—you just have to know how to find it.