Cutting like a knife through the air, this large and futuristic skyscraper provides a distinctive flair to the Hong Kong skyline.
Bank of China Tower has a sleek and modern design that epitomizes the innovative architecture of Hong Kong. Standing out in the packed and lively skyline, it remains one of the tallest skyscrapers in the territory. Admire the glassy triangles making up this huge building, which is 1,205 feet (367 meters) tall.
Take a ferry across the water from Kowloon and snap photos of the spectacular skyline of Hong Kong Island. The Bank of China Tower has 76 stories, including four beneath the ground. Spot the building’s two masts that reach into the sky from its summit. From certain angles, the tower’s shell might appear transparent against the sky.
Revered architect I.M. Pei designed the structure with the inspiration from bamboo shoots, which have natural strength and beauty. The tower is made from glass and aluminum. The structure now contains the headquarters of the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited, which leases out many of the floors to other companies.
Note that when the skyscraper was built in 1989, it was considered the tallest building in Asia. It is known among locals as the Vertical Knife, due to the resemblance of its shape to a meat cleaver.
Immediately northwest is the HSBC (Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation) Tower. Look to the top of that building where two large cannon-shaped objects point directly at the Bank of China Tower. While these may have been installed to support window-washing efforts, locals tell the story that they act as protection for the HSBC building against bad feng shui created by the Bank of China Tower’s knife edge.
Bank of China Tower is a little inland from the northern shore of Hong Kong Island. Take a bus to one of the many nearby stops or ride the tram to the Murray Road station. While you’re here, make sure to explore the surrounding area for Tai Chi Garden, St. John’s Cathedral and Chater Garden.
