Dividing Hong Kong Island from Kowloon, Victoria Harbour has long been the lifeblood of the city. It is from these waters—often teeming with a motley mix of traditional and modern vessels—that the city’s twin skylines are best viewed. The harbor is historically responsible for the city that surrounds it as well; its deep and sheltered waters situated strategically on the South China Sea have directly contributed to Hong Kong’s rise as a major world trading center.
The Basics
It sounds cliche, but you really haven’t seen Hong Kong until you’ve seen Victoria Harbour. Cutting right through the heart of the city, the harbor plays host to some of the city’s most iconic experiences: Ride the double-decker Star Ferry from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, watch the twin Hong Kong skylines light up during the nightly Symphony of Lights, take in the sights and sounds of the waterway aboard a leisurely dinner cruise, feast on seafood at Jumbo Floating Restaurant (the world’s largest), or simply stroll along the waterfront promenade, stopping for a photo op on the Avenue of Stars. For the best view of the harbor from above, head up to Victoria Peak.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The harbor is a must-see for every first-time visitor.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you’re planning to explore the harbor front on foot.
- Get out on the water with a sightseeing harbour cruise, dinner cruise, or nighttime Symphony of Lights cruise.
- Plan to visit the harbor both during the day and at night.
How to Get There
Victoria Harbour is easily accessed from just about anywhere in Hong Kong. The Star Ferry Pier is the point of departure for trips across the harbor, and the most popular portion of the harbor—the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade—is within walking distance of East Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station.
When to Get There
Victoria Harbour bustles with activity day and night, and it’s best to experience it at both times to truly put your finger on its pulse. Don’t leave Hong Kong without witnessing the world’s largest permanent light and sound show, the Symphony of Lights, staged nightly on the harbor.
Points of Interest on the Victory Harbour Waterfront
Even if you keep your feet on dry land, there’s plenty to do along the waterfront of Hong Kong harbor. Strike a pose next to the Bruce Lee statue, shop at Harbour City mall (Hong Kong’s biggest), pop into the Hong Kong Museum of Art or Hong Kong Space Museum, or take a stroll through Victoria Park.
