Hong Kong is famous for its history with regards to naval activities and warfare. From battles ranging from the Opium Wars to the epic Battle of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Coastal Guard and Navy have a rich history which is honoured by all in Hong Kong, thus giving birth to unique the Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence.
Displaying over 600 years of coastal defence, the Museum of Coastal Defence was established in the ancient Lei Yue Mun Fort in 1993. The fort which was created by the British in 1887 to defend the coasts of Hong Kong, also played a key part in the battles that ensued during the invasion of Hong Kong by the Japanese and therefore has a significant place in the region’s history. Both the museum and the fort are worth the visit for all naval defence enthusiasts, as over 600 years of naval history is preserved in this structure.
The Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence consists of 11 Galleries, displaying the various historic naval artefacts from different time periods of the region’s navy. Including exhibitions related to the Ming Period, the Opium Wars, the period of the British and the Japanese Occupation, this museum has one of the largest collections of naval weapons and armour.
One can literally see the evolvement of naval cannons, torpedoes, guns, pistols and even naval swords and daggers at the museum, including the various uniforms worn by sailors and soldiers in the past. Some of the finer items displayed in the museum are 6” Disappearing Cannons, shells which were fired on the region during various wars, swords of the brave admirals who led the Hong Kong forces, and historic documents of sailors. Exhibitions on the human sacrifices during wars and evolvement of coastal weapons are also presented at the museum. The museum is truly a must-visit for all naval enthusiasts, as its many collections and exhibits are rich in history and are priceless artefacts in the history of the local navy.
Located just over 15 minutes from the Lei Yue Mun Fort is the Cosmo Hotel, an elegant Hong Kong boutique hotel. The Cosmo Hotel promises lavish comfort and excellent service, along with elegant accommodation in one of their 142 trendy rooms and suites. Surrounded by the shopping delights of Causeway Bay and Times Square Shopping Mall, the Cosmo Hotel is an exceptional 4 star hotel Hong Kong with fine dining restaurants and ample facilities.
