Hong Kong to reopen Avenue of Stars

Avenue of Stars, which pays tribute to those who helped make Hong Kong the "Hollywood of the East," will reopen on Jan. 31 after more than three years of renovation.

Since opening in 2004, Avenue of Stars has been one of the most popular scenic spots in Hong Kong, attracting 500,000 visitors every month who view handprints of local movie stars, exhibitions and cultural programs.

The much-loved statues of Bruce Lee, late local diva Anita Mui Yim-fong, cartoon character McDull and the Goddess of the Hong Kong Film Awards Association, have been relocated to make them more accessible to tourists. The site also added handprints of five more stars during renovation.

Chui Ting-pong, executive director of Hong Kong Tourism Association, said local travel agencies are expected to organize 70 percent of mainland group tourists to visit the destination showcasing Hong Kong's film culture.

Catering services close to the site for group tourists have also been reorganized while Hong Kong Transport Department has introduced new measures to ensure smooth public transport around the area.