When we visited Hong Kong, I made sure that the Clock Tower was on our must-see list—especially after learning that it’s been a declared monument since 1990. It may seem like a small stop compared to the bustling skyline or theme parks, but to me, it symbolized a deeper connection to the city's colonial past.
🏛️ A Glimpse into the Past
Officially named the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower, this red brick and granite structure is the only remnant of the original Kowloon-Canton Railway Station, which once stood proudly on the site. The station was demolished in the 1970s, but the Clock Tower remained, standing as a silent witness to the city's transformation.
It’s more than just a photo op—this tower has stood through wars, cultural shifts, and urban development. It’s a landmark that locals and tourists alike stop to admire, knowingly or not.
🌃 Our Experience
Even though the viewing platform was open during our visit, we arrived at night, so we didn’t go up. We opted to save our energy for the Symphony of Lights, which takes place nearby at Victoria Harbour. That said, the view at night was still worth it—the Clock Tower looks absolutely beautiful, especially with the soft glow of city lights reflecting on the harbor.
📸 Tip: The best time for photos is during blue hour or right after sunset, when the lights start to shimmer on the water.
🔔 Update: The Bell Rings Again
In December 2021, the clock tower’s iconic bell chimes were resumed! You can now hear the bell ringing hourly from 8:00 AM to midnight, thanks to a digital bell system that’s synchronized with the Hong Kong Observatory’s web clock. It's a beautiful throwback to old-world charm, brought into the digital age.
🚶♀️ What to Do Around the Clock Tower
Since the viewing deck is currently closed to the public, you won’t be able to go inside—but it’s still worth visiting for:
- Scenic walks along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
- Catching the Symphony of Lights just a short stroll away
- Photography with the skyline backdrop
- A moment of reflection or people-watching by the harbor
💬 While it might not be the flashiest attraction, the Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower is a quiet and meaningful stop that adds historical depth to your Hong Kong adventure. I didn’t get to see it during the day, but seeing it illuminated at night gave it a different kind of magic.
📍 Plan Your Visit
🕒 Bell chimes: Every hour
from 8:00 AM to 12:00 midnight
📍 Location: Star Ferry Pier, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
🚇 Nearest MTR Station: Tsim Sha Tsui (Exit E) or East Tsim Sha
Tsui Station (Exit L6)
🙌 Planning a Hong Kong trip?
Don’t skip the quiet stops like this one! Check out my [Hong Kong 4-Day Itinerary] for more personal stories, tips, and travel hacks.
Got a favorite HK spot I should visit next time? Leave a comment below or message me—I’d love to hear from you! 🇭🇰✨
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