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The iconic statute of Bruce Lee in Hong Kong is a popular attraction for fans. But they were only able to get pictures from behind construction fences for the last three years. Now Hong Kong is reopening its avenue of stars and augmented reality features mean people can have more than just a picture with Bruce Lee. CGTN'S Li Jiejun reports.
The much-loved statue of martial arts legend Bruce Lee is back at Tim Sha Tsui Waterfront. Different from the previous one, the statue has been upgraded with water features. And protective barriers have been removed to allow tourists to get up close. People can also take photos with their idol thanks to AR technology. The statues of late local diva Anita Mui Yim-Fong, the Goddess of the Hong Kong Film Awards Association, have also been relocated.
LI JIEJUN HONG KONG "McDull is a pig cartoon character created in Hong Kong. It is believed that its statue will draw a number of tourists here in the Year of the Pig."
Mcdull's handprint became one of the newest features at the Avenue of Stars. The revamped walkway has 112 celebrity handprints at its reopening. Handprints of nine more local movie stars will be added later.
LI JIEJUN HONG KONG "The handprints, which were previously on the pavement, are now mounted on handrails, so the disabled and elderly people can easily touch them. And fans can also capture the city skyline in the background of their photos."
All of the handprints have digital elements that encourage visitor interaction. The improved avenue also has other contemporary designs, including the wave-inspired balustrade, fan-shaped trellises with vertical greening, upgraded seating, and local brands selling unique foods and souvenirs.
JAMES CORNER MASTERPLAN ARCHITECT "The design concept is to really allow people to enjoy the harbor and view of Hong Kong. We take the railing really close to the water edge. So people can get close to the water. The rails also roll up and down, so people can get lower and have a different experience."
Avenue of Stars pays tribute to those who helped make Hong Kong the 'Hollywood of the East'. Since its opening in 2004, it has been one of the most popular scenic spots in Hong Kong, attracting 500,000 visitors every month. In 2015, the avenue was shut down for renovation. The re-opening is expected to attract more visitors.
JEFF TUNG JING-KONG PROJECT DIRECTOR, NEW WORLD DEVELOPMENT "We have upgraded the waterfront area to international standards. And we are taking this chance to promote Hong Kong's local products. We estimate at least a 10 per cent rise in the number of visitors."
Experts say that with its fresh makeover, the Avenue of Stars will become a new hot attraction with cinematic, artistic and cultural content for everyone to enjoy.
Li Jiejun, CGTN, Hong Kong.