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1881 Heritage
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Landmark
1881 Heritage in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, is a declared monument that originally housed the Marine Police Headquarters. Completed in 1884, it is one of Hong Kong's oldest surviving government buildings. The complex includes the main building, the staff block, and the stables. After extensive restoration, it reopened in 2009 as a shopping mall and hotel. The architecture is neoclassical, featuring a distinctive cupola and Victorian elements. The site features a courtyard with a 20-meter-high lighthouse, originally for navigation. 1881 Heritage now symbolizes the blend of colonial heritage with modern Hong Kong. It hosts luxury brands, restaurants, and a museum on the history of the Hong Kong Police.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Nearby: Mei Foo (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 16 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 35 | 29 | 69 | 109 | 231 | 288 | 197 | 234 | 173 | 56 | 29 | 21 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
1881 Heritage is a publicly accessible complex with shops, restaurants, and a hotel. The courtyard and some exhibition areas can be entered for free.
Typical hours
Shops are typically open from 10 AM to 10 PM, the grounds themselves are accessible all day. Some historical rooms are only open at certain times, check on-site.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas, and shots of the historic facade are very popular. In luxury shops, photography may be restricted - ask for permission.
Time needed
A stroll through the shops and a visit to the courtyard takes about an hour. Those wanting to study the exhibitions and architecture in more detail should plan two hours.
Combine with
1881 Heritage is located in Tsim Sha Tsui, minutes from the harbor and the Avenue of Stars. The nearby Clock Tower and the Cultural Centre are also worth visiting.
Getting there
The complex is reachable by MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui station, then a five-minute walk. The Star Ferry from Central Pier is also a scenic way to get there.
Insider tip
Visit 1881 Heritage in the early evening when the lighting highlights the historic facade beautifully. The rooftop garden has a great view of Victoria Harbour.
Geography
Facts
- The building was completed in 1884.
- The cupola has a diameter of 10 meters.
- The lighthouse is 20 meters high.
- The 2009 restoration cost 400 million HKD.
- The site covers 3 hectares.
- The Marine Police used the building until 1996.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town 1881 Heritage (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What was this building previously?
It was the Former Marine Police Headquarters of Hong Kong.
What can you do here today?
Shop in luxury boutiques, dine, or visit the hotel.
What is the Time Ball Tower?
A historic tower used to signal the exact time to ships in the harbor.
Is there a fee to enter the grounds?
No, access to the outdoor areas and shops is free.
Where is 1881 Heritage located?
In Tsim Sha Tsui, directly opposite the Star Ferry Pier.
1881 Heritage: where is it located?
1881 Heritage is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
1881 Heritage: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
1881 Heritage: why is it worth visiting?
1881 Heritage in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, is a declared monument that originally housed the Marine Police Headquarters.
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