Central Plaza, Hong Kong

Located at 18 Harbour Road on Hong Kong Island, Central Plaza stands as a remarkable skyscraper soaring 78 stories high and reaching a height of 374 meters (1,227 feet). Its construction was completed in August 1992, making it a prominent landmark in the Wan Chai district. While it is the third tallest tower in Hong Kong, it held the title of the tallest building in Asia from 1992 to 1996 until the construction of Shun Hing Square in the neighboring city of Shenzhen.

Central Plaza boasts a distinctive triangular floor plan, contributing to its unique architectural design. At its zenith, a neon clock adorns the pinnacle of the building, cleverly displaying the time through an array of colors that change at fifteen-minute intervals. Adding to its allure, the skyscraper is also home to the Sky City Church, which holds the distinction of being the highest church within a skyscraper anywhere in the world.

Comprising two main components, Central Plaza comprises a standalone office tower and an attached podium block. The towering structure encompasses 57 office floors, accompanied by 5 mechanical plant floors and a sky lobby. The pinnacle of the tower features an additional 6 mechanical plant floors, culminating in a tower mast that reaches a height of 102 meters.

On the ground level, Central Plaza offers a welcoming public area adorned with meticulously landscaped gardens, a captivating fountain, and artificial stone paving. The building's almost triangular shape is achieved by strategically cutting off three corners, optimizing the internal office space while maintaining its overall aesthetic appeal.

Why You Should Visit:
Although not meant as a tourist attraction, this is still an excellent (and free) way to enjoy both the views over the harbor and the green views of the peak from huge windows on the 46th floor.

Tip:
Go into the main lobby, up the escalator to the first floor, and take the express lift to 46. Don't go late at night, though, as the place shuts down around 8 pm.