Avenue of Stars | Hong Kong

The Avenue of Stars (星光大道, Xīngguāng Dàdào) is a famous promenade located in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, Hong Kong. Inspired by the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Avenue of Stars celebrates the achievements of the Hong Kong film industry and is a major tourist attraction. It offers a stunning view of Victoria Harbour, as well as a tribute to the stars who have made significant contributions to Hong Kong’s vibrant cinema.

1. Overview

• Location: The Avenue of Stars is located along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, on the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Kowloon. It stretches along the Harbour City and is adjacent to Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Star Ferry Pier.
• Opened: It was officially opened to the public in 2004 and has since become one of Hong Kong's most famous landmarks, drawing both local visitors and international tourists.
• Length: The promenade stretches for about 440 meters and provides visitors with an excellent vantage point to enjoy the harbor view and Hong Kong skyline.

2. Key Features and Attractions

a. Star Handprints and Statues

The main attraction of the Avenue of Stars is the handprints and bronze statues of famous Hong Kong film stars. These tributes are similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame but with a focus on Hong Kong’s rich film heritage.

• Handprints: Visitors can see handprints of celebrated stars in the local film industry, such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and Maggie Cheung. These handprints are embedded into the pavement, much like those found in Hollywood, providing a fun and interactive experience for visitors.
• Statues: There are life-sized bronze statues of iconic actors and actresses, including a Bruce Lee statue, which is one of the most popular and photographed attractions. It features Bruce Lee in his iconic martial arts pose.

b. Bruce Lee Statue

• The Bruce Lee statue is perhaps the most iconic feature of the Avenue of Stars. Located at the end of the promenade, the statue captures the legendary martial artist in a dynamic martial arts pose.
• The statue is a tribute to Bruce Lee, who is considered one of the most influential figures in martial arts cinema and an international cultural icon.
• The statue was unveiled in 2005 and is one of the most visited spots on the Avenue of Stars.

c. Film Industry Plaques

• Along the Avenue, there are plaques dedicated to various film stars, directors, and people who have had a significant impact on Hong Kong cinema. These plaques feature the names and biographies of individuals who helped shape the local film industry.
• These include legends such as John Woo, Ringo Lam, Chan Ho-Sang, and Liu Chia-Liang, who have made contributions to both Hong Kong and international cinema.

d. Multimedia Light and Sound Show (Symphony of Lights)

• The Avenue of Stars offers an excellent view of Victoria Harbour and is a prime location to watch the famous Symphony of Lights show, a spectacular multimedia light and sound show that takes place every evening at 8:00 PM.
• The show features a synchronized display of lights and sounds across the buildings on both sides of the harbour, and the Avenue of Stars serves as an excellent viewing spot for this world-renowned show.

e. Themed Exhibitions and Art Installations

• The Avenue of Stars regularly hosts art exhibitions, installations, and cultural events that celebrate the cinematic history and the local culture of Hong Kong. These may include photo displays, temporary exhibits, and celebrations of important milestones in Hong Kong cinema.

3. Victoria Harbour View

One of the main reasons visitors flock to the Avenue of Stars is its magnificent view of Victoria Harbour. The promenade provides a perfect spot to admire the scenic views of the Hong Kong skyline, Kowloon, and the nearby islands.

• Daytime: Visitors can take in the stunning views of the harbor and skyline, with large skyscrapers like International Commerce Centre and the Two International Finance Centre towering above.
• Nighttime: The Avenue of Stars offers one of the best views of the Symphony of Lights show, and it’s also a great place to see the glittering lights of Hong Kong's skyline at night.

4. Cultural and Historical Significance

The Avenue of Stars is a tribute to the rich history and development of the Hong Kong film industry, which is one of the most significant in Asia and the world. Hong Kong cinema, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, gained international acclaim for its action films, martial arts cinema, and comedy.

• It celebrates the achievements of not just actors and actresses but also directors, producers, and other key figures in the industry. Hong Kong’s film industry has long played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of both China and the rest of the world.

5. Nearby Attractions

The Avenue of Stars is located in the Tsim Sha Tsui area of Kowloon, a major shopping, dining, and entertainment district in Hong Kong. Visitors can easily explore other nearby attractions, including:

• Hong Kong Museum of Art: Just a short walk from the Avenue of Stars, this museum showcases a wide range of traditional and contemporary Chinese art and is a must-visit for art lovers.
• Harbour City Mall: One of Hong Kong’s largest shopping malls, offering a wide variety of international brands, restaurants, and entertainment options.
• Star Ferry: A historic ferry service that provides a scenic and affordable way to travel between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central on Hong Kong Island, offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour.
• Kowloon Park: A peaceful park featuring gardens, a bird sanctuary, and cultural and recreational facilities, perfect for a relaxing stroll after visiting the Avenue of Stars.

6. How to Get There

• MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The nearest MTR station to the Avenue of Stars is the Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit E), which is just a few minutes' walk away from the promenade.
• Star Ferry: Visitors arriving from Hong Kong Island can take the Star Ferry from Central Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui, which is a short walk to the Avenue of Stars.
• Bus and Taxi: Numerous bus routes and taxis serve the area, providing easy access to the Avenue of Stars from various parts of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

7. Best Time to Visit

• Evening: For the best experience, visiting in the evening is highly recommended. Not only can you enjoy the harbor views at sunset, but you can also witness the Symphony of Lights show, a popular nighttime attraction.
• Daytime: If you prefer a quieter experience and wish to explore the statues and handprints in detail, visiting during the daytime will allow you to enjoy a more peaceful visit.

8. Admission and Costs

• The Avenue of Stars is free to visit, and there is no admission fee to walk along the promenade, view the stars' handprints, or admire the statues and views.
• The only costs involved may be related to dining, shopping, or optional attractions nearby (such as the Hong Kong Museum of Art or taking a Star Ferry ride).

9. Conclusion

The Avenue of Stars is an essential destination for anyone interested in Hong Kong’s film history and those who appreciate breathtaking views of the Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyline. Whether you're a movie buff, a photography enthusiast, or just someone looking to enjoy the beauty of Hong Kong, the Avenue of Stars provides a unique and memorable experience. With its tribute to the stars of Hong Kong cinema, beautiful surroundings, and proximity to other cultural attractions, it's a must-visit stop when in the city.