Hong Kong is changing everyday and nothing can stop Hong Kong’s development. After the last Star Ferry sailed way at 11:00pm, Hong Kong lost another iconic landmark of Hong Kong, the old Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier, which closed its doors forever on the 29th of August 2014 .

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

The historical Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier has been in operation since 1968 and accompanied Hong Kong for 46 years, representing Hong Kong’s typical flair and charm. Everything around has been changed after 46 years. Victoria Harbour is narrower, skyscrapers rose along the Victoria Harbour (HSBC Building, Bank of China Tower, Central Building are all built in the 1980s), the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center on the left side is built for 1997 Handover ceremony. Hong Kong’s memory is disappearing piece by piece.

Countless time I have taken the Star Ferry from that pier. I will always miss the white and green painted ferry pier and the unique green iron framed windows.

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

You don’t need to worry about burning sunlight, pouring rain or the heavy traffic. The Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier is easily accessible through the footbridge from the government departments, international offices, the third tallest building in Hong Kong – Central Plaza, as well as my favorite Wan Chai Computer Center.

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center is in the close vicinity (about 5-10 min walk from the old Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier). When there’s an international fair, taking Star Ferry from TST is a perfect option for those who stay in the hotels opposite the Victoria Harbour.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center is the on the left

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center is the on the left

There was a time that Wan Chai used to have ferries from Jordan Road, Hung Hom and Tsim Sha Tsui. The route from Jordan was closed due to the land reclamation project. Three years ago (2011 March), Star Ferry Company has to cut off the route between Hung Hom to Wan Chai / Central due to continuous losses. The only remaining route in operation nowadays is the Wan Chai – Tsim Sha Tsui route.

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

The old Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier is replaced by the new Wan Chai Ferry Pier (The replacement of the old Wan Chai Ferry Pier is part of the Central – Wan Chai Bypass (Wan Chai Development Phase II), which is due to be completed in 2017).

The new Wan Chai Ferry Pier is about 100 meter away from the old pier and has a new design (similar to the one in Central), providing more space, larger glass windows, more viewing opportunities and more shops than the old one. The new pier opens its gate for Star Ferry passengers on August 30, 2014.

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Wan Chai (East) Star Ferry Pier

Constructing the New Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier (left)

Constructing the New Wan Chai Star Ferry Pier (left)

Hard to believe, but works to demolish the old Wan Chai Ferry Pier already started shortly after the last Star Ferry left. Rails and chairs were removed on the very night. Accept it or not, another part of old Hong Kong has vanished.

Thank you, Wanchai Ferry Pier, for the last 46-year service !

In case you would like to get some of the old Star Ferry Pier experience: check out the Star Ferry Pier in Tsim Sha Tsui. It is the last remaining pier in white and green painting with the iconic green windows overlooking Victoria Harbour.