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St. Andrew's Church
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St. Andrew's Church is the oldest Anglican church in Kowloon and stands as a prime example of Victorian Gothic architecture in Hong Kong. Completed in 1906, the church was built through the philanthropy of Sir Catchick Paul Chater, a key figure in the city's early development. Located on a raised plot along the bustling Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, the red-brick building provides a striking visual contrast to the surrounding modern skyscrapers. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong in the 1940s, the church was unique in that it was converted into a Shinto shrine, which helped preserve the structure from wartime destruction. The interior features exquisite stained-glass windows and a traditional timber-framed roof, characteristic of English ecclesiastical design from the turn of the century. As a Grade I historic building, the site including the Old Vicarage and its surrounding grounds is carefully maintained, serving both as an active place of worship and a peaceful retreat for history enthusiasts and residents alike.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Knutsford Terrace · St. Andrew's Church
- Nearby: Repulse Bay (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
St. Andrew's Church is an active Anglican church and can be visited during opening hours. The interior is accessible to visitors as long as no services are taking place. Access to certain areas may be restricted.
Typical hours
The church is typically open daily from around 9:00 to 17:00 for visitors. During services, entry is for worshippers only. More exact times can be obtained from the parish office or website.
Photography
Photography inside the church is allowed without flash to preserve the atmosphere. During services, photography is prohibited. The Victorian brick architecture from outside is a worthwhile subject.
Time needed
A visit to the church typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes. The church is not very large, but the stained glass and interior furnishings invite lingering. Allow more time if exploring the surroundings.
Combine with
The church is located on Nathan Road, the bustling heart of Kowloon. Combine the visit with a walk to Kowloon Park or the Hong Kong Museum of History. The shopping streets of Tsim Sha Tsui are also nearby.
Getting there
St. Andrew's Church is at the intersection of Nathan Road and Austin Road. The nearest MTR station is Jordan (Exit B2) or Tsim Sha Tsui (Exit B2). Numerous bus routes stop along Nathan Road.
Insider tip
Visit the church on a weekday when fewer services are held, for a quieter experience. Entry is free. Note the red brick façade - it's a popular photo subject.
Geography
Facts
- Consecrated in 1906.
- Bell tower is 30 meters high.
- Seating capacity of 500.
- Stained glass windows installed in 1920.
- Served as military hospital with 200 beds during WWII.
- Organ built in 1935 with 1,200 pipes.
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Sights in the town St. Andrew's Church (2)
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Frequently asked questions
Where is St. Andrew's Church located?
The church is located on Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.
Can tourists visit the church?
Yes, visitors are welcome outside of service times to admire the architecture and garden.
What style was the church built in?
It was built in the Victorian neo-Gothic style, featuring characteristic red bricks.
When was St. Andrew's Church founded?
The foundation stone was laid in 1904, and the consecration took place in 1906.
Are there services in English?
Yes, as an Anglican church, St. Andrew's gives regular services in English.
St. Andrew's Church: where is it located?
St. Andrew's Church is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
St. Andrew's Church: what is there to see?
Highlights include Knutsford Terrace, St. Andrew's Church.
St. Andrew's Church: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Nov, Dec.
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