Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok, Symphony of Lights in Hong Kong
Central Pier
We decided to take a ferry from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui.
It was already past 4 PM.
Tsim Sha Tsui direction, ferry pier
Star Ferry in Hong Kong is widely used when traveling between Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui.
The ferry pier is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible.
Moreover, the fare was affordable, making it a fun transportation option to try.
It took about 10 minutes from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui,
and the fare for adults was HK$2.5 on weekdays and HK$3.0 on weekends (USD 0.5).
It can be easily used with an Octopus card.
Star Ferry
Hong Kong’s Star Ferry has a history of over 100 years.
The ferry interior had a sophisticated charm with wooden interiors.
It was not only popular among tourists but also widely used by locals as a means of transportation between islands.
Tsim Sha Tsui
The speed was slow, but the scenery from the boat was stunning.
Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower
Upon reaching Tsim Sha Tsui, a clock tower that serves as a landmark for Star Street stands tall.
We decided to explore the area north of Tsim Sha Tsui before returning at sunset.
Mong Kok Station
Mong Kok is where the night market opens after sunset.
While Hong Kong Island is the central business district with many professionals,
Mong Kok is a central area popular among young people.
Mong Kok Night Market
Although it was not yet dark enough for the night market to open, many shops and people were present.
They offered products for daily life rather than luxury goods.
2ne1, K-Pop singer in HK
In the street crowded with sports brands, you could feel the influence of Korean culture.
I encountered 2ne1 at an Adidas store, and it was exciting to meet a famous Korean singer in Hong Kong.
Octopus Card
I didn’t do much shopping in Mong Kok.
Instead, I walked around, observed various shops, and people-watched.
Then, I took the subway back to Tsim Sha Tsui.
Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong
Every evening at 8 PM, the Symphony of Lights show takes place at Victoria Harbour.
Many people were already occupying positions along the waterfront promenade to watch the light show in the building forest across the harbor.
For about 15 minutes, we waited for the show to start for an hour to secure a good spot.
Sunset at Victoria Harbour
After a long day of walking, looking at the peaceful sea and the illuminated buildings across the harbor made resting enjoyable,
Even without watching the show separately, the serene sea and the lit buildings provided a comfortable atmosphere.
Soon, the show began.
Symphony of Lights
It was a music show combining music and building lights.
Several famous buildings on Hong Kong Island that we walked past during the day illuminated according to the music.
I had high expectations, but it wasn’t as impressive or entertaining as I thought.
Victoria Harbour Cruise
Even after the show, many people stayed, taking commemorative photos.
Various colored lights were scattered across the calm sea.
Temple Street Night Market
Instead of going straight home after the show,
we decided to stop by Temple Street Night Market for a simple meal.
The market offered affordable seafood options, and many locals and tourists gathered, especially during the evening rush.
Temple Street Night Market
Tables were set up in the middle of the street, and there were so many people eating that there were no empty seats.
Spicy crab was famous, but locals were enjoying dishes like vegetable stir-fry and dim sum.
Spicy Crab
Although others didn’t seem to be eating it, we noticed a table that looked Korean occasionally.
So, we ordered spicy crab.
It was smaller than expected, and despite the high price, there wasn’t much crab meat.
Even though our stomachs weren’t full, we decided not to order more food.
Way back home
As it was late to go back to our accommodation on Hong Kong Island, we took the subway.
We crossed Victoria Harbour quickly, faster than taking a ferry.
Aug. 21, 2012