The Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter protects some of Hong Kong’s most impressive yachts and has been the backdrop to countless Chinese action movies.
Hong Kong was a small fishing village before the city made its rise to success as an economic centre. Sampans, junks and large fishing boats sailed in and out of Victoria Harbour and were regularly battered by violent typhoons in the South China Sea. Particularly harsh storms in 1874 and 1906 prompted the city to build and expand typhoon shelters in the harbour, including Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter in 1953.
Today, the shelter’s total area has been reduced because of the expansion of Hong Kong Island. The shelter lies in a crescent shape, with Kellett Island providing a natural windbreak to the west. Film buffs may recognise the harbour as an iconic backdrop to many Chinese action movies filmed in Hong Kong.
Visitors with wealthy friends in Hong Kong might be invited to enjoy a ride on one of the yachts anchored at the shelter. Otherwise, stand on the edge of the harbour to check out the modern houseboats and cruisers. See local fishermen in sampans and the floating restaurant.
Listen out for the Noon-Day Gun, fired nearby. This cannon firing ceremony began in the Jardine House in the 1860s when British traders controlled Hong Kong. Reach the gun via the pedestrian tunnel that leads from Excelsior Hotel. Arrive before noon to see the short gun-firing ceremony.
Check out Victoria Park southwest of the bay on a Sunday when thousands of Indonesian domestic helpers enjoy their day off. Pack a picnic blanket and join the Lunar New Year festivities in the beginning of spring. The festival features a variety of traditional food and fresh, fragrant flowers. Visit in June to see thousands of residents light candles to commemorate the anniversary of the Tiananmen Square incident in 1989, when many Beijing University students lost their lives.
Reach Causeway Bay by train from the Tin Hau or Causeway Bay stations. The typhoon shelter is open every day and free to visit.
