The first branch of the world-famous waxworks museum in Asia includes local stars as well as global cultural icons.
Who else would be waiting to greet you at the Hong Kong branch of Madame Tussauds than the immortal Jackie Chan? This familiar figure is just one of the Asian superstars who rub shoulders with Hollywood icons such as Marilyn Monroe and Nicole Kidman. You might not recognise all the Asian actors and singers by name, but there’s no denying the excitement among local fans as they crowd around local heartthrob Andy Lau.
The first Asian branch of the world-famous waxworks museum opened in Hong Kong in 2000 in the ultra-modern Peak Tower shopping complex, famed for its stunning views of Hong Kong Island. Over 100 wax figures are displayed across three floors arranged in themed sections, including Music Icons, Hong Kong Glamour and The Champions. Here you can pose for photos by international A-listers including David Beckham and Lady Gaga as well as public figures such as Barack Obama and Princess Diana.
One of the most popular features of the museum is the scary Scream exhibition, where you have to find your way around the gloomy corridors of an abandoned asylum, dodging grisly waxwork monsters and creepy characters played by actors in full costume and make-up. Luckily for the faint-hearted, this part of the tour is optional!
Madame Tussauds is open daily and is easily accessible from Central via the Peak Tram from the Lower Terminus on Garden Road (near MTR Central Station, Exit J2) or by Minibus 1 from the public transportation interchange at MTR Hong Kong Station, Exit E. A visit usually takes a couple of hours, after which you can treat yourself to some fabulous views of Central, Kowloon and the South China Sea from the Sky Gallery at the top of the Peak Tower, or take a relaxing walk along Lugard Road for more views of the cityscape.
