Avenue of Stars Hong Kong: Complete 2025 Visitor Guide

Hong Kong’s Avenue of Stars (星光大道) is a waterfront promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui that celebrates the city’s film industry. Think of it as Hong Kong’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but with a much better view. You get handprints of local film legends, a Bruce Lee statue, and one of the best free skyline views of Victoria Harbour.

The promenade was renovated and reopened in 2019 with wider walkways, seating, and better viewing areas for the nightly Symphony of Lights. This guide covers what to see, how to plan your walk, and the best times for photos.

Quick Facts

Info	Details
Location	Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Chinese name	星光大道 (Avenue of Stars)
Cost	Free
Best time	Sunset and night
Main highlights	Handprints, Bruce Lee statue, skyline views
Nearest MTR	East Tsim Sha Tsui (Exit J)

What Is the Avenue of Stars

The Avenue of Stars is a waterfront promenade honoring Hong Kong cinema. It runs along the Tsim Sha Tsui harborfront with views across to Hong Kong Island. The design includes handprints of famous actors, plaques with film trivia, and public art installations.

It is not a museum or a ticketed attraction. It is a public walkway, so you can visit any time and stay as long as you want. Most visitors come for a quick walk, photos, and the Symphony of Lights show at 8:00 PM.

The Harbor View (What to Look For)

One of the main reasons to visit is the skyline itself. From the promenade you can clearly see:

• Central and Admiralty skyline on Hong Kong Island
• IFC and Bank of China Tower (two of the most iconic buildings)
• The Peak ridgeline behind the skyscrapers
• Ferries and harbor traffic moving across the water

If you have never seen Hong Kong’s harbor before, this is the easiest place to take it all in. The view is open, wide, and free.

History: From Original to Renovation

The Avenue of Stars opened in 2004 and quickly became a popular tourist spot. Over time it became crowded and dated, so the area was closed for a major renovation in 2016 and reopened in 2019.

What Changed in 2019

• Wider promenade with better crowd flow
• More seating and shade
• Improved lighting for night visits
• New public art and design elements

The renovation made the promenade more comfortable and photogenic, especially for evening visits.

Why Hong Kong Cinema Matters

Hong Kong was one of the most influential film hubs in Asia for decades. The city produced globally known directors and actors, and its action cinema shaped the style of modern Hollywood. The Avenue of Stars is a small tribute to that legacy. Even if you do not recognize every name on the plaques, the promenade gives you a sense of how important film culture is to the city.

Quick Film Timeline (Very Short Version)

• 1950s-70s: The golden era of Hong Kong studio cinema
• 1980s-90s: Action films and stars like Jackie Chan and Chow Yun-fat became global icons
• 2000s onward: Directors and actors moved between Hong Kong and Hollywood, bringing the style worldwide

This is why the Avenue of Stars exists in the first place. It is a reminder that the city’s cinema was once a cultural powerhouse across Asia.

What to See

Celebrity Handprints and Plaques

The core feature is the collection of handprints and plaques for famous Hong Kong film stars. These include actors, directors, and producers who shaped the industry. The handprints are set into the ground, so you can compare your hand size with a star’s.

Notable names you might recognize:

• Bruce Lee
• Jackie Chan
• Chow Yun-fat
• Wong Kar-wai (director)

Not every plaque is easy to find on a crowded evening, so treat the handprints as a bonus rather than a checklist.

Bruce Lee Statue

The Bruce Lee statue is the most popular photo spot. It is located near the center of the promenade and is usually surrounded by visitors. Expect a short wait if you want a clear photo.

Anita Mui Memorial

There is a memorial for Anita Mui, one of Hong Kong’s most beloved singers and actresses. It is a quieter spot and a good place to learn about the city’s pop culture history.

Public Art and Installations

The renovated promenade includes small art pieces, film-themed sculptures, and seating areas designed for photos. These details are easy to miss if you rush straight to the Bruce Lee statue. Slow down and look for plaques that explain the film history behind some installations.

The art is not dramatic, but it adds texture to the walk and makes the promenade feel more than just a viewing platform.

Symphony of Lights Viewing

The Avenue of Stars is one of the best free locations to watch the Symphony of Lights show at 8:00 PM. The show lasts around 10 minutes and uses lasers and building lights across the harbor.

Tips for the show:

• Arrive 20-30 minutes early for a front-row spot.
• Stand near the railings for the clearest view.
• The show runs daily, but heavy rain or fog can reduce visibility.

The show is synchronized with music played through speakers on the promenade. It is short, so do not arrive late.

Best Spots for the Light Show

For the clearest view, stand near the central railings between the Bruce Lee statue and the West end seating areas. This section lines up well with the skyline on Hong Kong Island. If it is crowded, move slightly east toward the museums; the angle is still good and there is often more space.

If you want a photo with fewer people, stand closer to the water railings and use a tighter zoom to cut out the crowd in the foreground.

Walking the Promenade (Route Guide)

The promenade is easy to walk and takes about 20-30 minutes end to end without stops. Most people start near the MTR exits by Salisbury Road and walk west toward the Bruce Lee statue, then continue to the waterfront seating areas.

Suggested Walk

1. Start near East Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Exit J
2. Walk toward the handprints and plaques
3. Stop at the Bruce Lee statue for photos
4. Continue to the waterfront seating and viewing platforms
5. Stay for the Symphony of Lights if visiting at night

If you want fewer crowds, walk the promenade in the early morning. It is quieter and the skyline is still impressive in daylight.

Promenade Layout and Stops

The walkway is long but simple. You can think of it as three zones:

• East end (near museums): Quieter and good for photos with fewer people.
• Central zone: Handprints, Bruce Lee statue, and the most crowded section.
• West end: Wider seating areas and a clear view for the light show.

If you only have 30 minutes, focus on the central zone. If you have more time, walk the full length and sit by the water.

How to Get There

By MTR

• East Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit J): Short walk to the promenade
• Tsim Sha Tsui Station (Exit E): Slightly longer walk but still easy

From East Tsim Sha Tsui Exit J, follow signs for the waterfront and museums. The walk takes about 5-7 minutes and is mostly flat.

By Ferry

You can take the Star Ferry from Central or Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui. The ferry ride is a classic Hong Kong experience and gives you a great view of the skyline before you even arrive.

After you exit the ferry terminal, walk along the harborfront toward the museums. The promenade is clearly signposted, and the walk takes about 10-15 minutes. This route is one of the most scenic ways to reach the Avenue of Stars.

By Bus or Taxi

Tsim Sha Tsui is well connected by bus and taxi. Ask for "Avenue of Stars" or "Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront" and drivers will know the area.

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Best Time to Visit

• Sunset (5:30-7:00 PM): Best light and cooler air
• Night (8:00 PM): For Symphony of Lights
• Morning: Quiet, fewer crowds, softer light

If you want to photograph the skyline, sunset and blue hour are the best. If you only want handprints and a quick walk, daytime is fine.

Day vs Night Visit

Time	Pros	Cons
Day	Clear handprints and easy walking	Hazy skyline in summer
Sunset	Best light for photos	Crowds build quickly
Night	Symphony of Lights and city glow	Busy and humid in summer

If you want both daylight and night views, arrive about 90 minutes before sunset and stay through the light show.

What to Expect at Night

Nighttime is the most dramatic moment on the promenade. The skyline lights reflect on the harbor, and the air cools down. It also means more people, especially around the Bruce Lee statue and the viewing railings. If you want a clear skyline photo, be patient and move to the edges where the crowd thins out. If you miss the Symphony of Lights, the promenade is still worth walking. The skyline stays lit late into the night, and the view is almost as good without the show.

Weather and Seasonal Tips

Hong Kong is humid for much of the year. Summer evenings can be sticky and crowded, while winter evenings are cooler and more comfortable. Typhoon season (roughly June to September) can bring heavy rain and strong wind, which makes the waterfront less pleasant. If the forecast shows rain, bring a light jacket or plan a daytime visit instead.

Holiday periods like Christmas, Lunar New Year, and National Day bring heavy crowds and higher hotel prices. If you want a quieter visit, avoid major holidays and weekends.

Nearby Attractions (Tsim Sha Tsui Area)

The Avenue of Stars is surrounded by major attractions:

• Hong Kong Museum of Art
• Hong Kong Space Museum
• K11 Musea shopping and dining complex
• Nathan Road for shopping and street life
• Star Ferry Pier

You can easily combine the promenade with a museum visit or a shopping break.

Extra Stops for Film Fans

If you love Hong Kong cinema, consider adding one or two nearby stops:

• Hong Kong Film Archive (in Sai Wan Ho) for exhibitions and screenings
• Hong Kong Heritage Museum in Sha Tin, which sometimes hosts film-related displays

These are not next door, but they add context if you want to go deeper into the city’s movie culture.

Alternative Harbor Walks

If you want more waterfront time, Hong Kong has other good promenades:

• Central Harborfront: Good for sunset and ferry views
• Wan Chai Promenade: Less crowded, great for photos
• West Kowloon Cultural District: Large open space with skyline views

The Avenue of Stars is still the most iconic, but these alternatives are useful if you want quieter walks or a different angle on the skyline.

Photography Tips

• Use a wide lens for skyline shots
• Shoot at blue hour for balanced sky and city lights
• Avoid peak crowd times if you want clean photos
• Try reflections in the glass railings at night

For the Symphony of Lights, a small tripod or phone clamp helps. If you do not have one, brace your phone on the railing and use a short exposure.

If you are photographing people, be respectful. The promenade is busy, and not everyone wants to be on camera. A quick smile or stepping to the side goes a long way.

Common mistakes include shooting straight into bright lights and underexposing the skyline. If your camera allows, lower the exposure slightly to keep building lights crisp. It makes the skyline look cleaner.

Food and Dining Options

You will find plenty of food within walking distance. Options range from street snacks to high-end restaurants.

• Tsim Sha Tsui street food on side streets near Nathan Road
• Harborfront cafes around K11 Musea
• Local cha chaan tengs for Hong Kong-style tea and noodles

If you want a view dinner, look for restaurants with harbor-facing windows.

If you prefer quick eats, try the food courts inside nearby malls. If you want something classic, a local cha chaan teng is a good choice for milk tea, noodles, and baked rice. Dinner prices vary widely, so you can keep it cheap or turn it into a special night out.

For a harbor-view meal, reservations are a good idea on weekends. If you are traveling on a budget, grab takeout and eat on one of the benches by the water.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early for Symphony of Lights. The best viewing spots fill up.
• Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk more than you think.
• Keep valuables close. The area is safe but busy.
• Check the weather. A windy night can be chilly by the water.

Local Etiquette Tips

The promenade is a shared public space. Try to keep the main path clear, especially near the Bruce Lee statue where people stop for photos. If you are taking group photos, step to the side so others can pass.

Street performers sometimes work near the promenade. If you take a photo or stop to watch, a small tip is appreciated but not required.

Budget Breakdown

The promenade is free, but you may spend money on transport and food:

• MTR fare: HKD 8-20 (~¥7-18 / $1-3) depending on distance
• Star Ferry: HKD 2-5 (~¥2-4 / $0.30-0.70)
• Dinner nearby: HKD 60-200 (~¥55-180 / $8-25)

If you are on a budget, take the ferry, walk the promenade, and eat at a local cha chaan teng.

Accessibility and Family Notes

The promenade is flat and paved, which makes it easy for strollers and wheelchairs. The busiest area is around the Bruce Lee statue, so give yourself extra time if you are visiting with kids.

Crowd Strategy

If you want quieter photos, visit early in the morning or on a weekday. The most crowded period is 7:30-8:30 PM around the light show. You can also walk to the far ends of the promenade where there is more space.

In the evening, the promenade has a lively atmosphere with buskers and street performers nearby. It can feel crowded, but it also feels energetic and very Hong Kong.

Sample Evening Itinerary

17:30 - Arrive and walk the promenade

18:00 - Photos at Seven Holes Bridge area and Bruce Lee statue

19:00 - Dinner nearby

19:45 - Return to the waterfront and find a viewing spot

20:00 - Symphony of Lights

This schedule gives you sunset photos and the light show without rushing.

Where to Stay Nearby

Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the most convenient areas in Hong Kong for first-time visitors. Hotels here give you easy access to the harbor, shopping, and MTR connections.

• Budget: Small guesthouses around Nathan Road
• Mid-range: International chain hotels within 5-10 minutes of the promenade
• High-end: Harbor-view hotels facing the skyline

If you stay on Hong Kong Island, you can still visit easily by MTR or ferry, but you will spend more time commuting.

Is the Avenue of Stars Worth It?

Yes, especially if you want a free harbor viewpoint. Even a short visit delivers skyline photos and a classic Hong Kong atmosphere. If you are not interested in film culture, you can still enjoy the promenade for the views and people-watching.

If your schedule is tight, combine it with the Star Ferry for a simple, low-cost evening.

Common Questions

Is there an entrance fee?

No, the promenade is free to the public.

How long does it take to walk?

20-30 minutes end to end without long stops, longer if you stay for photos or the light show.

Where is the best spot for Symphony of Lights?

Near the railings in the central zone, close to the Bruce Lee statue.

Is it safe at night?

Yes. The area is busy and well lit, but keep valuables close like you would in any tourist zone.

Related Resources

Related Resources

Planning a Hong Kong trip?

• Hong Kong vs Mainland - Key differences for travelers
• Shenzhen Day Trip from Hong Kong - Easy side trip planning
• China Survival Kit - Essential tools and travel prep

Final Thoughts

The Avenue of Stars is a simple attraction with a big view. It is free, easy to reach, and one of the best places to see the Hong Kong skyline at night. Even if you are not a film fan, the harbor view alone makes it worth a visit. For first-time visitors, this is one of the easiest wins in the city. It is relaxed, photogenic, and close to transport. If you only have one evening in Kowloon, this is a good place to spend it. It pairs well with a ferry ride and a late dinner, and it costs almost nothing to enjoy. It is always open. Visit any time. It rarely disappoints on a clear night. Bring a camera.

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Last updated: December 2025