Kowloon Waterfront Hong Kong

By Allison Martin

Kowloon is located on the edge of the mainland of China and just across the water from the central part of the city of Hong Kong. This section of the Hong Kong sprawls down to the Victoria Harbor - the promenade provides an impressive view of the Hong Kong skyline and the numerous ships gliding up the channel. While you are here, take a quick trip down to the harbor to visit the shops and museums, and if possible, hop on a short ferry ride.

Tsim Sha Tsui ("sharp, sandy point"), the area of Kowloon along the waterfront, is famous for its shops and sites. This area is home to over 600 stores, the Star Ferry and a number of wonderful museums. Nathan Road (also known as the Golden Mile) is the main thoroughfare, while Salisbury Road rims the southern boundary.

The bustling streets of Hong Kong are evocative of canyons as skyscrapers tower above. Never did I realize how much space our American cities have, until visiting one of the most populated cities of Asia.

Of all the ferries plying the waters to Hong Kong and the nearby islands, the most famous are the Star Ferries. Billed as the "most romantic ferry ride in the world," the voyage to Central Hong Kong crosses Victoria Harbor in about 8 minutes. Outlying islands take about an hour or less. The views are reported to be spectacular - day and night.

Near the Star Ferry terminal you will also find the Hong Kong Tourist Association Information and Gift Shop. They will provides free maps and information for your visit. Also nearby the Harbor City, Ocean Terminals, and Ocean Centre all contain numerous shops.

Even better than shopping is a stroll along the boulevard. The view of the Hong Kong city skyline and the harbor along the waterfront is truly spectacular. It borders from the Star Ferry Terminals, past the Space Museum, Hong Kong History Museum, and Hong Kong Art Museum, up to the end of Tsim Sha Tsui. Hong Kong skyscrapers lift directly up from the harbor in an impressive display of steel, glass and concrete before the mountains.

Best of all is a visit to the Hong Kong Museum of Art - for here you can view both the breathtaking skyline and major treasures of Chinese art.

Next : Walking Around Kowloon