Victoria Harbour
Hong Kong
Victoria Harbour is a natural landform harbour located between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, serving as a major trading hub and a celebrated tourist attraction. Its deep, sheltered waters and strategic location on the South China Sea facilitated Hong Kong's rise as a British colony in 1841 and its development into a global port. The harbour is renowned for its spectacular skyline, which is best viewed from spots like the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and the Ocean Terminal Deck. It hosts the nightly multimedia light show 'A Symphony of Lights,' which illuminates the iconic buildings on both sides of the harbour. The Star Ferry, a historic ferry service, offers an intimate way to experience the harbour and its cityscape. Despite extensive land reclamation projects that have altered its size and raised environmental concerns, Victoria Harbour remains vital for international shipping and local culture. It also features numerous ferry piers, typhoon shelters, and cruise terminals that support both commercial and leisure activities. The harbour’s waters are deep and navigable year-round, making it one of the world's premier natural harbours.
ヒント: The best time to visit Victoria Harbour is in the evening to enjoy the 'A Symphony of Lights' multimedia show at 8 pm. For the classic harbour views, visit the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront or take a ride on the historic Star Ferry. Purchasing tickets for harbour cruises or vantage points like the Ocean Terminal Deck in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visitors should also explore the promenade areas such as the Avenue of Stars and Hong Kong Cultural Centre for cultural experiences. Be mindful of weather conditions, especially during typhoon season, as harbour activities may be affected.
興味深い事実
- •Victoria Harbour is one of the world's deepest natural harbours with an average depth of 12 meters and a maximum depth of about 43 meters at Lei Yue Mun.
- •The harbour hosts the nightly 'A Symphony of Lights' show, one of the world's largest permanent light and sound shows.
- •Victoria Harbour was historically called Hong Kong Harbour before being renamed after Queen Victoria.
- •The harbour has undergone extensive land reclamation since the 19th century, reducing its original water area to about 59%.
- •It is home to multiple typhoon shelters that protect vessels during storms and is critical for Hong Kong's maritime safety.
- •The Star Ferry has been operating for over a century, providing a scenic and historic way to cross the harbour.
- •The harbour area includes two major cruise terminals: the historic Ocean Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui and the newer Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.
- •Victoria Harbour is central to Hong Kong's identity, often called the 'Pearl of the Orient' due to its picturesque setting and vibrant urban backdrop.
歴史
Victoria Harbour was first referenced in sailing maps around 1425 and detailed in an 1810 marine chart by East India Company officers.
Originally called Hong Kong Harbour, it was renamed to Victoria Harbour after Queen Victoria to signify British naval protection.
The harbour played a pivotal role during colonial times as a strategic port and witnessed several historical events, including naval skirmishes in the mid-19th century.
Since the 19th century, extensive land reclamation projects have expanded Hong Kong’s urban area but sparked environmental debates.
The harbour also saw a decline in water quality in the 1970s due to industrial growth.
Infrastructure developments such as the Star Ferry and multiple underwater tunnels have shaped its role as a transportation hub.
Today, it remains one of the busiest natural ports globally, integral to Hong Kong’s economy and identity.
場所ガイド
Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront
The classic vantage point for panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s skyline, featuring promenades like the Avenue of Stars and landmarks such as the Clock Tower and Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
Star Ferry1888
Historic ferry service crossing Victoria Harbour since the late 19th century, offering scenic views of the skyline and a nostalgic travel experience reminiscent of old Hong Kong.
Ocean Terminal Deck2017
An observatory deck atop the Ocean Terminal extension offering a 270° panoramic view of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon, and Hong Kong Island, ideal for photography and sightseeing.