Gin Drinkers Line

The Gin Drinkers Line was a British defense line in the vicinity of Hong Kong against the Japanese invaders.

The defensive position consisted of a variety of bunkers, trenches and artillery positions. The name was taken from the Gin Drinkers Bay near Kwai Chung. Construction began in 1936. Defending line connects several hills in the area of Kowloon. The concept of the Gin Drinkers Line was derived from the French Maginot Line. The position should allow the British to stop attacker for at least six months. It was also called the "Asian Maginot Line ". Even the Japanese generals classified the line a as a real obstacle, until they found out by patrols that almost all positions were not fully occupied. For example, only 30 soldiers were stationed in a 120 -man bunker. Therefore, the Gin Drinkers Line was just like the Maginot Line, a complete failure. The positions and the region around Kowloon were abandoned by the British after just two days.

Even today there are still to be seen some remains, especially near the Shing Mun Reservoir. The positions are named after streets in London around the defenders to give a little feeling of home. This is exactly where the Japanese army succeeded in the breakthrough.

• Military History ( Pacific War )
• Fortification in World War II