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Noonday Gun
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Landmark
The Noonday Gun, located on the waterfront of Causeway Bay, is a historical landmark and one of Hong Kong's most enduring colonial traditions. Since the mid-19th century, the gun has been fired daily at precisely 12:00 PM, originally serving as a time signal for ships in Victoria Harbour. Maintained by the trading firm Jardine Matheson, the tradition reportedly began as a penalty imposed by a British naval officer. According to the legend, a Jardines employee fired a private salute for a manager arriving by sea, which was considered an offense as such salutes were reserved for the military. As punishment, the company was ordered to fire a gun every day at noon to provide the public time. Today, the firing ceremony remains a popular attraction, featuring a uniformed guard and a 1901 Hotchkiss 3-pounder gun. On New Year's Eve, the gun is also fired at midnight to ring in the new year, a practice known as 'eight bells,' echoing a long-standing maritime tradition.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Po Leung Kuk Museum · Olympic Bridge · Noonday Gun
- Nearby: Nam Cheong (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
The Noonday Gun is a historic landmark in Causeway Bay, fired daily at 12:00 PM. Visitors can watch the event for free from the street.
Typical hours
The gun firing event happens exactly at 12:00 PM. Arrive about 10 minutes early to get a good spot - the gun is otherwise visible 24/7.
Photography
Photography and video recording of the firing are absolutely allowed and very popular. Make sure to capture the sound, but do not stand too close to the gun.
Time needed
The visit lasts only about 15 minutes - enough to arrive before the firing and linger briefly after. Combine the visit with a lunch break in the area.
Combine with
The Noonday Gun is near the Causeway Bay shopping district, Victoria Park, and Times Square. The Causeway Bay harbour with its restaurants is also close.
Getting there
Reach the Noonday Gun by MTR to Causeway Bay station (Exit D). From there, it's about a 10-minute walk along Gloucester Road.
Insider tip
Position yourself on the opposite side of the street before the firing for a good view of the gun. Be punctual at 12:00 PM - the gun fires only once!
Geography
Facts
- Fired daily at 12:00 noon.
- Original cannon from 1860.
- Current replica installed in 1947.
- Caliber of 6 inches (152 mm).
- Tradition officially adopted by government in 1961.
- Cannon is approximately 3 meters long.
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Sights in the town Noonday Gun (6)
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Frequently asked questions
When is the Noonday Gun fired?
The gun is fired every day precisely at 12:00 noon.
Where exactly is the gun located?
It is located at the waterfront in Causeway Bay, opposite the Excelsior Hotel (accessible via a tunnel).
Does it cost anything to watch the ceremony?
No, watching the firing ceremony is free and open to everyone.
Who fires the gun?
An employee of the Jardine Matheson company performs the traditional ceremony.
Can you take photos after the shot?
Yes, after the firing, the gate is opened for about 30 minutes so visitors can take photos of the gun.
Noonday Gun: where is it located?
Noonday Gun is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Noonday Gun: what is there to see?
Highlights include Po Leung Kuk Museum, Olympic Bridge, Noonday Gun.
Noonday Gun: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
Noonday Gun: why is it worth visiting?
The Noonday Gun, located on the waterfront of Causeway Bay, is a historical landmark and one of Hong Kong's most enduring colonial traditions.
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