Movie buffs flock to this waterfront promenade to find out all about the local film industry and watch the spectacular light show across the bay.
Most people associate the Hong Kong movie scene with launching the careers of global superstars such as Jackie Chan, Jet Li and Michelle Yeoh, not forgetting the daddy of them all, Bruce Lee. But a stroll down the Avenue of Stars will introduce you to many less familiar names who have played their part in transforming Hong Kong into the Hollywood of the Orient.Among the hundred or so plaques that line the 440-metre promenade is one dedicated to Lai Man-Wai, who directed and starred in the island’s very first feature film, Zhuangzi Tests His Wife, in 1913. While you stroll past the plaques honouring individual actors and directors, you can also read about the history and growth of the local film industry on a series of red pillars spaced at intervals along the route, before popping into one of the shops for a souvenir of your trip down movie memory lane.The films of martial arts legend Bruce Lee are still hugely popular, even after his death, and fans can’t wait to have their picture taken in front of his life-size statue, sometimes striking crazy kung-fu poses to imitate their hero. The promenade opened in 2004 as a scheme to bring more tourists to this part of Hong Kong, and this bronze statue has certainly become one of its biggest attractions.Something else that draws the crowds are the superb views of the Hong Kong skyline across the harbour. By day, the promenade is a perfect place to escape the city heat and watch the boats as they crisscross the bay, while at night people line the waterfront to catch the famous Symphony of Lights, a free 15-minute music and laser extravaganza which bathes the skyscrapers of the central business district in swirling cascades of light.The Avenue of Stars is on the waterfront of Tsim Sha Tsui, around a three-minute walk from the nearest MTR station. The Symphony of Lights takes place every evening at 8 p.m., weather permitting.
