Atkinson Clock Tower
Sabah's oldest wooden clock tower, a 1905 colonial relic offering a quick historical photo op in Kota Kinabalu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Atkinson Clock Tower
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Sabah's oldest wooden clock tower, a 1905 colonial relic offering a quick historical photo op in Kota Kinabalu.
"A quick stop for photos and a glimpse into colonial history, easily accessible from the city center."
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief photo opportunity. Combine with a visit to nearby attractions.
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from City
Easily reachable on foot from Filipino Market and 'I Love KK' spot, about 10 mins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Clock Tower
Jalan Istana, Kota Kinabalu
Sabah's oldest wooden clock tower, a charming relic from 1905, perfect for a quick photo.
Colonial Architecture
Jalan Istana, Kota Kinabalu
Admire the unique wooden architecture, a testament to British colonial administration in the early 20th century.
Panoramic City Views
Hilltop near the tower
Enjoy a brief moment of scenic views overlooking parts of Kota Kinabalu city.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Photo Op & History
Accessibility & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief photo opportunity. Combine with a visit to nearby attractions.
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from City
Easily reachable on foot from Filipino Market and 'I Love KK' spot, about 10 mins.
🕰️ Historical Significance
Learn about Sabah's colonial past; it's one of the oldest buildings in KK.
🚫 No Food or Shops
This is a landmark, not a commercial area. Bring your own snacks if needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief photo opportunity. Combine with a visit to nearby attractions.
🚶♀️ Easy Walk from City
Easily reachable on foot from Filipino Market and 'I Love KK' spot, about 10 mins.
🕰️ Historical Significance
Learn about Sabah's colonial past; it's one of the oldest buildings in KK.
🚫 No Food or Shops
This is a landmark, not a commercial area. Bring your own snacks if needed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often find the Atkinson Clock Tower to be a quick, historically significant stop, appreciated for its age and colonial charm. However, some express disappointment that there's not much to 'do' beyond taking photos, and a few mention past renovations or feeling misled by tour guides. It's best viewed as a brief historical landmark rather than a major attraction.
"This tourist attraction is on a small hill that can easily be reached. There is nothing much to do here except to take a few pictures and enjoy a bit of scenery. There are no food products or any goods sold here.
You can get to the clock tower from the Filipino Market and I Love KK tourist attraction no longer than 10 minutes by foot."
Paul G
"one of the oldest buiding in kota kinabalu. Clock tower completed at 1905.
The clock start operate at 19/04/1905.
Normally just took a photo after visited gaya street. tourism can study the history of building this clock tower."
TRANCE 89
"This clock tower is worse than Fraser Hill clock tower.
Look extremely ordinary. Besides, our tour guide scam us to visit this attraction .
Very disappointed."
Radiant Judgement
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Atkinson Clock Tower is conveniently located on a small hill and is easily accessible on foot. It's about a 10-minute walk from popular spots like the Filipino Market and the 'I Love KK' tourist attraction. Grab is also a readily available option for a quick ride.
Yes, it's very close to other key Kota Kinabalu sights. You can easily combine a visit with exploring Gaya Street, the Filipino Market, and the Signal Hill Observatory.
While you can drive nearby, parking directly at the tower might be limited. Walking from the city center or using ride-sharing services is often more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Atkinson Clock Tower. It's a public landmark that you can access freely.
The clock tower is an outdoor landmark and can be viewed at any time. However, for the best experience and photos, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There have been mentions of renovations in the past. It's advisable to check recent visitor posts or local information if you're concerned about current access or appearance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activity is taking photos and appreciating the historical architecture. It's a quick stop to learn about Sabah's colonial past and enjoy a brief view of the city.
No, there are no food products or goods sold at the Atkinson Clock Tower itself. It's purely a historical monument.
For history buffs and those looking for a quick photo opportunity, it's a worthwhile stop. Some visitors find it 'ordinary' compared to other attractions, so manage expectations.
While there might not be extensive information displayed on-site, you can research its history online or through local guides. It was completed in 1905.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours offer the best natural light for photography. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
The tower itself is the main subject. You can also capture wider shots that include the surrounding greenery or a glimpse of the city below.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with the nearby Filipino Market can offer more interactive experiences for kids, like browsing local goods or trying new snacks. The short distance from other city sights also makes it manageable for families on the go. Remember to bring water and sun protection, as it's an outdoor activity.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with walking to other nearby landmarks like the Filipino Market and the 'I Love KK' sign to save on transportation. Utilizing Grab for longer distances is also relatively inexpensive in Kota Kinabalu, allowing you to explore more without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the tower itself is the main focus, consider incorporating the surrounding greenery or a hint of the city skyline into your shots for a more dynamic composition. It's a great spot for capturing a sense of place and history within your travel photography portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial History
For visitors, the tower offers a tangible connection to the region's past. While some reviews suggest it might appear 'ordinary' to those expecting grand monuments, its historical value is undeniable. It survived World War II, adding another layer to its resilience and story. The tower's location on a small hill also provides a modest vantage point for observing the city.
It's important to note that the tower is primarily a visual attraction. While it has undergone renovations to preserve its structure, the experience is centered around appreciating its historical presence and capturing photographs. It serves as a quiet reminder of Kota Kinabalu's evolution from a colonial outpost to the vibrant city it is today.
Navigating Kota Kinabalu's Landmarks
From the clock tower, it's a short walk to the Filipino Market, a bustling hub for local crafts, souvenirs, and street food. The 'I Love KK' sign is also nearby, offering another popular photo opportunity. For panoramic views, the Signal Hill Observatory Platform is a must-visit, providing a broader perspective of the city and its surrounding islands.
Transportation within Kota Kinabalu is generally straightforward. Grab, the ride-sharing service, is widely used and affordable, making it easy to hop between attractions if walking isn't preferred. For those interested in exploring further afield, like Kinabalu Park or Poring Hot Springs, hiring a van for a half-day or full-day excursion is a common recommendation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit