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Haw Par Mansion

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Haw Par Mansion (Hong Kong SAR China)

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Haw Par Mansion was completed in 1935 by Aw Boon Haw, the philanthropist and entrepreneur who co-invented the world-famous Tiger Balm ointment. The residence is a masterclass in Chinese Eclectic architecture, seamlessly blending traditional Chinese decorative motifs with Western building techniques. It was originally surrounded by the sprawling Tiger Balm Garden, a surreal landscape of statues and grottoes depicting scenes from Chinese mythology. While the garden was mostly redeveloped, the mansion was designated as a statutory monument in 2009 to ensure its preservation. Today, it serves as Haw Par Music, a center for musical education and performance. Visitors can admire the exquisite craftsmanship, from the colorful Italian stained glass windows to the ornate wood carvings, all while enjoying the serene atmosphere of this hilltop heritage site.

Best time to visit & climate

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

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C161820232628292928252217
Rain mm352969109231288197234173562921

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Haw Par Mansion is a rare example of Chinese eclectic architecture in Tai Hang. Likely only the exterior is open to the public, as the estate may be privately used.
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Typical hours
Exterior viewing is possible at any time as the property fronts a public street. The villa's interior typically has no fixed visiting hours.
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Photography
The richly decorated façades of the villa are a paradise for architecture photographers. Photography from the street is allowed; the best angle is from across the road.
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Time needed
Allow about 15-20 minutes for exterior viewing and detail shots. If you also explore Tai Hang, add another 30 minutes.
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Combine with
The mansion is in Tai Hang, near Victoria Park and Causeway Bay. Combine with a walk to Tiger Balm Garden (if open).
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Getting there
The nearest MTR station is Causeway Bay, from where the mansion is about a 15-minute walk. Alternatively, take a bus to Tai Hang.
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Insider tip
Notice the colourful mosaics and dragon motifs on the façade - they are a hallmark of the Tiger Balm inventors. Visit on a weekday when it's quieter.

Geography

Coordinates
22.27000, 114.19170

Facts

  • The villa was built in 1935.
  • The estate covers 2 hectares.
  • Interiors contain over 1000 wood carvings.
  • The garden originally had over 200 statues.
  • Aw Boon Haw lived there until his death in 1954.
  • The 2010 restoration cost 200 million HKD.

Explore nearby

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Tai Tam Country ParkTai Tam Country Park3 km · NExplore →
Ocean Park SummitOcean Park Summit3 km · SEExplore →
Kowloon Bay Business DistrictKowloon Bay Business District3 km · NWExplore →

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 Haw Par Mansion (10)

Tam Kung & Tin Hau Temple

Temple in Hong Kong dedicated to sea deities Tam Kung and Tin Hau.

F11 Foto Museum🏛 museum

Photography museum in Hong Kong with rotating exhibitions.

Hong Kong-Macao Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists

Headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist Church for Hong Kong and Macao.

Jardine's Lookout

Mountain in Hong Kong offering views over the island.

Shing Kwong Church

Christian church in Hong Kong holding services.

The Church of Christ in China Man Lam Christian Church

Christian church in Hong Kong, part of the Church of Christ in China.

St. Margaret's Church

Church in Hong Kong belonging to the Anglican communion.

Happy Valley Hindu Temple

Hindu temple in Happy Valley, Hong Kong, for the Hindu community.

Po Leung Kuk Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Hong Kong showcasing the history of the Po Leung Kuk charity.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Who built the mansion?
Aw Boon Haw, the inventor of Tiger Balm.
Does the Tiger Balm Garden still exist?
The garden was demolished, but the mansion was preserved.
Can you visit the interior?
Visits are often only possible through special programs or tours.
What style is the architecture?
A blend of Western Neoclassicism and traditional Chinese elements.
Where is the mansion located?
In Tai Hang on Hong Kong Island.
Haw Par Mansion: where is it located?
Haw Par Mansion is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Haw Par Mansion: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tam Kung & Tin Hau Temple, F11 Foto Museum, Hong Kong-Macao Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists.
Haw Par Mansion: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Haw Par Mansion: why is it worth visiting?
Haw Par Mansion was completed in 1935 by Aw Boon Haw, the philanthropist and entrepreneur who co-invented the world-famous Tiger Balm ointment.
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