Plizio Visual Lab

Cenotaph

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
monument
—°10
Cenotaph (Hong Kong SAR China)

Weather…

The Cenotaph in Hong Kong's Central District is a somber reminder of the costs of conflict, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding modern skyline of Statue Square. Unveiled in 1923, the monument is a near-exact replica of the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London, designed by the renowned British architect Sir Edwin Lutyens. It was originally constructed to commemorate those who died in the First World War, with inscriptions for the Second World War added later. Built from local granite, it bears the simple yet powerful dedication "The Glorious Dead." The site remains a focal point for remembrance in the city, particularly during annual ceremonies held on Remembrance Sunday. Its designation as a statutory monument in 2013 ensures its preservation as a key historical landmark, representing Hong Kong's complex colonial history and its enduring respect for those who served in the armed forces during the global conflicts of the 20th century.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C161820232628292928252217
Rain mm352969109231288197234173562921

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Cenotaph is located in a public square and can be viewed from outside at any time. There is no interior access as it is an open monument.
🕒
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, it is accessible 24 hours a day. No ticket is required to view it.
📷
Photography
Photography is freely permitted from the surrounding area. Be respectful during official ceremonies or remembrance events.
⏱️
Time needed
A brief stop of 10-15 minutes is sufficient to view the monument and read the inscriptions. If attending a ceremony, allow more time.
Combine with
Located in Central, it is close to the Hong Kong City Hall and the HSBC Building. Also nearby is the Statue Square and the Legislative Council building.
🧭
Getting there
Easily reached on foot from Central MTR station exit K. Also by tram or bus along Des Voeux Road Central.
💡
Insider tip
Visit during early morning or late evening to avoid crowds and for better photo lighting. The annual Remembrance Day ceremony in November is a significant event.

Geography

Coordinates
22.28180, 114.16100

Facts

  • The Cenotaph was erected in 1923.
  • It is a replica of the Cenotaph in London.
  • It stands 12 meters tall.
  • It is made of granite.
  • Inscriptions are in Chinese and English.
  • It has been a declared monument since 1996.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cenotaph (10)

City Hall Memorial Shrine

A memorial inside City Hall, commemorating the victims of the world wars.

🕒 Su[1] 09:30-12:30

Statue Square

A square in central Hong Kong, surrounded by banks and skyscrapers.

Chater Garden

A park along Chater Road, a popular lunch spot for office workers.

City Gallery🏛 museum

An exhibition centre in Hong Kong, featuring displays on urban planning.

Cheung Kong Park🌳 park

A park in Central, Hong Kong, offering a quiet green space amid high-rises.

St. John's Cathedral

Cathedral of the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui, built in neo-Gothic style in the 19th century.

Justice Place

Former headquarters of British Hong Kong government departments.

Louise Bourgeois

A gallery showcasing works by French-American artist Louise Bourgeois.

The Hong Kong Observation Wheel

A Ferris wheel in Hong Kong, offering panoramic views of the city.

HKMA Information Centre🏛 museum

Information centre of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, with financial history exhibits.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

To whom is the monument dedicated?
It commemorates the fallen of both World Wars who served in Hong Kong.
Where is the Cenotaph located?
It stands between Statue Square and the City Hall in Central District.
When do ceremonies take place there?
Official commemoration services usually take place on Remembrance Sunday in November.
Is the monument a replica?
Yes, it is almost identical to the Cenotaph in Whitehall, London.
Are photos allowed there?
Yes, photos are allowed, but you should remain respectful given the site's significance.
Cenotaph: where is it located?
Cenotaph is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Cenotaph: what is there to see?
Highlights include City Hall Memorial Shrine, Statue Square, Chater Garden.
Cenotaph: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Cenotaph: why is it worth visiting?
The Cenotaph in Hong Kong's Central District is a somber reminder of the costs of conflict, standing in stark contrast to the surrounding modern skyline of Statue Square.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Asia
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Asia
More places in Hong Kong SAR China →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks