Over 400 million years of Hong Kong’s past comes to life through the original artifacts and multimedia displays at this must-see history attraction.
The Hong Kong Museum of History preserves the archaeological, ethnographical, folkloric and natural history of Hong Kong. Through a series of permanent and special exhibitions, the museum takes visitors on a journey from prehistoric to modern-day Hong Kong. Once part of the former City Museum and Art Gallery, the Hong Kong Museum of History opened in 1975 and currently boasts a catalogue of some 90,000 artifacts.
Starting from the Devonian period 400 million years ago, The Hong Kong Story permanent exhibition covers major historical events in the development of the territory. Learn about the climate, geological changes, flora and fauna as you walk through a tunnel to a forest, where a soundtrack of animal calls resonates. Browse examples of bronze and stone objects, and study a diorama that recreates the daily lives of prehistoric ancestors. Understand the customs of Chinese dynasties such as the Han, Tang, Ming and Qing.
The exhibition continues with recreations of a junk sailing ship, Hoklo salt-making customs, and the humble life of Hakka peasant families. Get educated about the mid-19th century Opium Wars, the cession of Hong Kong to British rule, and the Japanese occupation in World War II.
Other displays highlight how the territory developed into a modern financial center. The exhibition concludes with the events that led to the British handing control back to the Chinese in 1997.
Ask about the museum’s program of temporary exhibitions. Previous topics have ranged from the currencies of Hong Kong and Macau, to Chinese wedding ceremonies, the Hong Kong postal service and the preservation of historic buildings.
Located in the Yau Tsim Mong district, the museum is accessible via public buses and trains. The nearest subway station is East Tsim Sha Tsui Station. Metered parking is possible at the adjacent Hong Kong Science Museum.
Hong Kong Museum of History is open from Wednesday to Monday and admission is free. Fees may be applicable for special exhibitions. Free guided tours are available in English on weekends and public holidays. There are also rentable audio guides in English.