A pavement salute to the big names of Hong Kong’s movie industry is also a good spot to see the island’s nightly laser light show.
The Avenue of Stars is a waterfront promenade that honors those who have made major contributions to the local film industry.
More than a hundred plaques are set into the 480-yard (440-meter) promenade’s colored paving blocks. The first star to be honored was Lai Man-Wai, who directed Hong Kong’s first feature film, Zhuangzi Tests His Wife, in 1913. He also played the role of the wife in that film.
Some of the honorees familiar to movie audiences outside of Hong Kong are Jackie Chan, Bruce Lee, Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh.Opened in 2004, the avenue was designed to bring more tourists into the area and to promote Hong Kong’s sizeable film industry. The island is often referred to as the “Hollywood of the Orient.”
As you make your way along the pavement, pause by each of the nine red pillars. Their inscriptions tell the story of Hong Kong’s cinematic history, which spans more than 100 years. Sit down on one of the benches and gaze out across Victoria Harbor, taking in the views of passing boats and the central business district’s skyscrapers. Pop into the souvenir shops for movie-related merchandise and memorabilia.
One of the most photographed attractions is the life-size statue of the legendary martial artist and actor Bruce Lee. You will often see tourists standing in front of the bronze figure, trying to imitate its kung fu pose.
At night the avenue provides an excellent view of the Symphony of Lights, a free 15-minute light and sound show that illuminates the cityscape directly facing you. More than 40 skyscrapers are lit up by colored lights, laser beams and searchlights – all set to music and narration. Symphony of Lights is staged every night, weather permitting, at 8 p.m.
Located at the waterfront of Tsim Sha Tsui, the Avenue of Stars is easily reached by public transport. The nearest MTR station is just a three-minute walk away.
