Golden Bauhinia Square Hong Kong
A symbolic square featuring a golden bauhinia statue, daily flag ceremonies, and stunning Victoria Harbour views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for ceremony
Golden Bauhinia Square Hong Kong
Best Time
Beat the crowds for ceremony
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A symbolic square featuring a golden bauhinia statue, daily flag ceremonies, and stunning Victoria Harbour views.
"A quick photo stop with great harbor views, especially for the nightly light show."
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Capture the iconic Golden Bauhinia statue against the harbor backdrop. Great for travel photos!
⏰ Arrive Early for Ceremony
The flag-raising ceremony is popular. Get there well in advance for a good view.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Golden Bauhinia Statue
Center of the square
A gleaming bronze sculpture symbolizing Hong Kong's return to China. A must-see photo op!
Daily Flag-Raising Ceremony
Main ceremonial area
Witness a patriotic display with a marching band and flag bearers. A cultural experience.
Victoria Harbour Views
Along the waterfront
Enjoy panoramic vistas of the iconic Hong Kong skyline and bustling harbor.
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Flag Ceremony
Consider Local Perspectives
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Capture the iconic Golden Bauhinia statue against the harbor backdrop. Great for travel photos!
⏰ Arrive Early for Ceremony
The flag-raising ceremony is popular. Get there well in advance for a good view.
💡 Skip if Short on Time
Some locals suggest skipping if you're pressed for time, as it's primarily a photo spot.
✨ Symphony of Lights View
This is a good spot to watch the nightly 'Symphony of Lights' show.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Op Alert!
Capture the iconic Golden Bauhinia statue against the harbor backdrop. Great for travel photos!
⏰ Arrive Early for Ceremony
The flag-raising ceremony is popular. Get there well in advance for a good view.
💡 Skip if Short on Time
Some locals suggest skipping if you're pressed for time, as it's primarily a photo spot.
✨ Symphony of Lights View
This is a good spot to watch the nightly 'Symphony of Lights' show.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Golden Bauhinia Square is a notable landmark, primarily recognized for its symbolic statue and the daily flag-raising ceremony. Visitors appreciate the scenic Victoria Harbour views and its role as a viewing spot for the 'Symphony of Lights' show. However, some locals view it as an overly touristy or politically charged site, suggesting it might be skippable for those with limited time.
"Started from here, walked along the shore to the observation wheel. It was foggy, occasionally showers. The scenery was splendid. A very nice place for a stroll, not a lot of people."
Patrick Xu
"Golden Bauhinia Square is not only an important landmark for the return of Hong Kong, but also a good place to witness history and enjoy the city's sea view."
TONGWEI ZHANG
"A 6m-tall statue of Hong Kong’s symbol, the flower of the Bauhinia blakeana orchid tree, stands on the waterfront in front to mark the establishment of the Hong Kong SAR in 1997 (金紫荊廣場). It was gifted by the Chinese government to mark the handover in 1997. The flag-raising ceremony, held daily at am, and conducted by the Hong Kong police. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The square is situated outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, where the ceremonies for the handover of Hong Kong and the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) (香港特別行政區) were held in July 1997.
To get to Golden Bauhinia Square in Hong Kong, you can take the metro, bus, ferry, or a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
Metro:
Take the Island Line to Wan Chai Station, Exit A5
Walk across the footbridge, right, and through the Central Plaza lobby
Cross the overhead walkway and go to ground level
Walk toward the waterfront, and the square is on the left
Bus
Take bus 25A, 307C, 905, 905P, 914X, 914P, 961, 961P, 978, 978A, or 978b to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Walk north to the square"
Doug Ho
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Golden Bauhinia Square via the MTR to Wan Chai Station, followed by a short walk. Alternatively, buses and taxis are readily available.
Yes, it's accessible by public transport. Wan Chai MTR station is the closest, and it's a pleasant walk from there.
Many visitors find the MTR to Wan Chai station the most convenient. From there, it's a straightforward walk to the square.
While not directly to the square, the Star Ferry offers scenic and affordable rides across the harbor, and you can walk from the ferry terminal.
Yes, taxis are a convenient option, especially if you're coming from further afield or have luggage. Just provide the driver with the destination.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Golden Bauhinia Square is a public space and entry is free. You can visit anytime.
The square is generally open 24/7, but the flag-raising ceremony has specific timings.
The flag-raising ceremony is a public event and does not require an admission fee.
The flag-raising ceremony typically takes place daily. It's best to check the official schedule for the exact time, as it can vary.
Yes, the square is accessible at night, and it's a great spot to view the 'Symphony of Lights' show.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is with the Golden Bauhinia statue. Also, capture the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.
Absolutely! The square offers excellent vantage points for capturing the Hong Kong skyline, especially during the 'Symphony of Lights'.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting. For the 'Symphony of Lights', visit around 8 PM.
Drone usage is generally restricted in Hong Kong's urban areas, including near public squares. It's best to avoid flying drones here.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography, but be mindful of others and avoid obstructing any ceremonies.
🎫 💡 Local Insights & Tips
Some locals consider it an 'opulent monstrosity' and avoid it, suggesting it's more of a tourist symbol than a local hangout.
It's a quick photo stop and a good spot for the 'Symphony of Lights'. If you're short on time, some suggest prioritizing other attractions.
The statue commemorates the handover of Hong Kong from the United Kingdom to the People's Republic of China in 1997.
Yes, it's often visited alongside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and is a good starting point for exploring the Wan Chai waterfront.
Dress comfortably and respectfully. Given Hong Kong's climate, light clothing is recommended.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the late afternoon or early evening to catch the 'Symphony of Lights' show, which is usually a hit with kids. The proximity to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre also means there are often open areas nearby. Pack snacks and water, as amenities directly within the square might be limited.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the surrounding architecture and the movement of the harbor. The flag-raising ceremony can also provide unique shots, though it requires careful timing and positioning to avoid crowds. Remember to check the weather for dramatic skies that can enhance your photos.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Quick Visitors
Many travelers suggest it's a place to 'tick off the list' rather than a destination to spend hours. Consider it as part of a larger itinerary, perhaps before or after visiting the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, or as a viewing point for the 'Symphony of Lights' if your schedule allows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Golden Bauhinia Statue: A Symbol of Handover
While it holds symbolic importance, it's worth noting that some locals have mixed feelings about the statue and the square, viewing it as a more politically charged landmark rather than a place of everyday local gathering. This perspective is often shared in online discussions, highlighting the varied sentiments surrounding the monument.
Despite differing opinions, the statue remains a prominent feature for visitors seeking to understand a key moment in Hong Kong's modern history. Its gleaming presence against the backdrop of Victoria Harbour makes it an easily recognizable landmark.
Experiencing the Daily Flag-Raising Ceremony
To get the best view, it's recommended to arrive early, especially on weekends or public holidays, as the area can become crowded. While the ceremony is a highlight for some, it's a relatively short event. Visitors often combine it with a visit to the square for photos and to enjoy the harbor views.
It's important to be aware of the specific timings for the ceremony, as they can vary. Checking an official schedule beforehand will ensure you don't miss this punctual display. The atmosphere during the ceremony is generally respectful, with attendees observing quietly.
Victoria Harbour Views and the Symphony of Lights
This location is also a prime spot for watching the 'Symphony of Lights', a nightly multimedia show that illuminates the skyline with lasers and searchlights synchronized to music. The show begins at 8 PM and transforms the harbor into a dazzling spectacle. Many visitors find Golden Bauhinia Square a less crowded alternative to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront for viewing this popular attraction.
For the best experience, aim to arrive a bit before 8 PM to secure a good vantage point. The combination of the harbor views and the light show makes an evening visit to Golden Bauhinia Square a memorable experience, offering a different perspective on Hong Kong's vibrant energy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit