As we stand on the bustling waterfront of Sheung Wan, it's hard not to notice the sleek, modern design of the Macau Ferry Terminal, now known as the Shun Tak Centre. However, few people know that there was once a rival terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui, the Old China Ferry Terminal. In this blog post, we'll delve into the history of these two competing ferry terminals and explore why only Shun Tak survived. We'll start by examining the early days of ferry travel in Hong Kong and how the two terminals came to be. The Old China Ferry Terminal was built in 1913, while the Macau Ferry Terminal, now Shun Tak Centre, was constructed in 1985. Despite being built over 70 years apart, both terminals played crucial roles in connecting Hong Kong to Macau and mainland China. However, as the years went by, it became clear that only one terminal could remain. So, what led to the demise of the Old China Ferry Terminal? And how did Shun Tak manage to outlast its competitor? To answer these questions, we'll need to look at the changing landscape of Hong Kong's transportation infrastructure and the impact of economic development on the city's ferry industry. As we explore the history of these two terminals, we'll also touch on the cultural significance of ferry travel in Hong Kong and how it has shaped the city's identity. From the nostalgic memories of old Hong Kong to the modern, high-speed ferries of today, we'll take a journey through the highs and lows of the city's ferry industry. So, join us as we remember the Old China Ferry Terminal and explore the fascinating story of how Shun Tak became the sole survivor of Hong Kong's competing ferry terminals.
The Macau Ferry Terminal's Lost Twin: Remembering the Old China Ferry Terminal in Tsim Sha Tsui
A comparative history of Hong Kong's competing ferry terminals and the rise of Shun Tak as the sole survivor.
3 min read
16 May 2026Terminal ArchivesMaritime History
