10 Things you did not know about The Sheraton Hotel HK
One of the best located Hotels in Hong Kong - location matters
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The Sheraton Hotel + Towers | Location, Location | Hong Kong
Foreword by Jamie
I have done over 2,400 + private tours in Hong Kong since 2011 and the overwhelming majority of them have involved picking up my guests from Hotels and dropping them off at the hotel at the end of the tour and it occurred to me that I actually know a fair bit about Hotels in Hong Kong and it occurred to me that the Sheraton Hotel & Towers is probably the best located Hotel in Hong Kong, it is smack in the middle of everything and is so easy to get to, most Hotel do not talk about their location on websites (the classic being the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Hong Kong which is horrible to get to) and yet location surely is a major factor for visitors to Hong Kong?! one of these days I will do a post about Hotel locations in Hong Kong!
Having called Hong Kong home since January 2nd 1972, I have watched countless hotels come and go in this ever-changing city, but few have held their ground quite like the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers. Situated right in the thick of Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon - it has been a steadfast landmark since the mid 1970s, welcoming millions of visitors with a blend of classic hospitality and modern updates. In my 16 years of of being a private tour guide and exploring every corner of Hong Kong, I have come to appreciate the stories behind such institutions - the development battles, ownership twists, refurbishments that breathe new life, and the little quirks that make them unique. Here are 10 things you might not know about this iconic property, drawn from its rich history and current standing. These insights go beyond the usual brochure copy or travel article fluff pieces, offering a deeper look for anyone curious about one of Hong Kong’s most enduring hotels.
1. The Complete and Detailed History of the Hotel’s Development from Concept to Grand Opening
The Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers traces its roots to the early 1970s building boom in Kowloon, as Hong Kong rapidly modernised and tourism surged. Development began in the early part of that decade on a prime plot at the junction of Nathan Road and Salisbury Road, with construction pushing forward to capitalise on the area's growing appeal as a gateway to the harbour and beyond. The project involved significant engineering for its scale at the time, rising as a substantial tower complex designed to offer sweeping views over Victoria Harbour.
When we arrived in January 1972 the site of the Sheraton was a hole in the ground and it was massive, luckily Nathan Road was a natural barrier so the Peninsula Hotel was not affected by the construction.
It is literally across the road from the iconic Peninsula Hotel, and that is surely no coincidence - the Sheraton snagged one of the most enviable sites in the district during a period of intense competition for prime real estate. It officially opened its doors on 18 February 1974 as the first Sheraton in the Asia-Pacific region, marking a significant milestone for international hotel brands entering Hong Kong, the hotel that started this influx of Hotel brands was of course the Hilton Hotel which sprung up on Hon Kong Island in the 1960’s
This was no small feat in an era when the city was transforming from a manufacturing hub into a global destination. The grand opening reflected the optimism of post-war Hong Kong, with facilities that were considered cutting-edge, including extensive public spaces and harbour-facing rooms. Over the decades, it has adapted through economic shifts, the 1997 handover, and tourism ebbs and flows, always maintaining a central role in TST's landscape.
2. A Complete Breakdown and Overview of the Hotel Ownership - Corporate Connections to Other Hotels in Hong Kong
Ownership of the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers is anchored by Tai Cheung Holdings Limited, which holds a 35 percent interest in the property. This long-standing involvement underscores Tai Cheung's focus on premium real estate and hospitality investments in Hong Kong, a group with over 50 years of local property development experience. The hotel operates under the Sheraton brand, part of the global Marriott International portfolio following the 2016 acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
On a corporate basis, it connects through the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem to other Sheraton properties and Marriott brands across Hong Kong, though it stands as a distinct asset rather than part of a single ownership chain with them. Note that this is separate from other Sheraton-branded hotels like those in Tung Chung, which have faced different ownership challenges involving mainland developers and creditor actions in recent years. The structure allows the Sheraton in TST to benefit from Marriott's global loyalty programme while retaining local ownership elements that keep it attuned to Hong Kong's market.
3. Is the Sheraton Hotel + Towers Hong Kong Considered a 5-Star Hotel?
Yes, the Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers is firmly positioned and recognised as a 5-star hotel. It upholds this reputation through its location, facilities, service standards, and consistent positioning among Hong Kong's elegant luxury properties. This classification aligns with its amenities, room quality, and the expectations set by the Sheraton brand within Marriott's portfolio, making it a go-to for discerning travellers seeking upscale accommodations in Kowloon.
4. The Recent Complete Refurbishment - Details of What Was Done
In recent years, the hotel underwent a major two-year renovation programme that touched virtually every aspect of the property, completed in time to mark its 50th anniversary in 2024. Every one of the guest rooms and suites was fully transformed with modern light-wood interiors, soft finishes, layered ambient lighting, and a warm residential feel - moving away from older, heavier colour schemes to brighter, more contemporary spaces. Bathrooms were completely redesigned for better flow and updated fixtures, while integrated power and charging stations were added throughout.
Public areas, including the Grand Ballroom, received an "Urban Chic" overhaul with soaring ceilings, crystal LED chandeliers, luxurious wall coverings, and new carpeting, enhancing its appeal for events. The refresh extended to dining venues, lounges, and overall guest experiences, ensuring the hotel feels fresh and relevant while preserving its core character. This investment has notably improved comfort for both business and leisure stays, addressing feedback on outdated elements from prior years.
However there is one issue, all the retail outlets at street level and in the basement where occupied by a large Japanese Department store (SOGO) and they closed shop IN 2023 when the lease expired and no new tenants have leased the space (s) so it is rather unsightly and it is really odd that no one has stepped in given the location and the massive foot traffic
5. Overview of Reviews, 5 Most Positive Comment Types, Room Breakdown, and Suites
Guest reviews consistently highlight the Sheraton's strengths in location, staff service, and value within its category, with many praising its post-refurbishment appeal. It earns solid ratings across major platforms for reliability and harbour views.
The 5 most positive types of comments typically include:
Exceptional staff attentiveness and friendliness, with frequent mentions of upgrades for loyal guests.
Prime location convenience for shopping, dining, and harbour access.
Comfortable, newly renovated rooms with excellent bedding and modern amenities.
Stunning Victoria Harbour views from higher floors.
Good facilities and dining options for the price point, especially for Marriott Bonvoy members.
The hotel features a total of 782 rooms and suites. Standard rooms make up the bulk, with variations in bedding (kings, twins, doubles) and views (city or harbour). Suites offer more spacious layouts, such as one-bedroom options around 786 square feet (approximately 73 square metres), providing separate living areas ideal for longer stays or families. Room rates vary widely by season and type but generally range from around HK$1,250 (US$160) to HK$3,450 (US$440) or more per night for standard rooms, with suites starting higher depending on specifics and demand.
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The Sheraton Hotel + Towers | Location, Location | Hong Kong
6. Major Awards Received in 2025 and 2026
The Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers has maintained strong recognition in the competitive hospitality scene. It has been nominated for accolades such as Hong Kong's Leading Business Hotel in both 2025 and 2026 through platforms like the World Travel Awards. While it competes against heavyweights, these nominations reflect ongoing esteem for its business facilities, location, and service in a city packed with luxury options. No sweeping category wins are universally highlighted in recent cycles, but its consistent presence in shortlists speaks to its enduring quality.
7. Overview of Facilities: Restaurants, Pool, Spa, Gym, and More
Facilities are comprehensive for a hotel of its calibre. There is a rooftop outdoor pool offering views, alongside a well-equipped health club and gym for guests to maintain routines. A spa provides relaxation treatments, complementing the fitness options.
Dining stands out with several restaurants and lounges serving a mix of local Cantonese, international, and casual fare - including the Lobby Lounge on the upper level for light bites and drinks. I would be remiss in not pointing out that Morton's Steak House has long been a fixture within the hotel on the 4th level - it has been there for as long as I can remember and remains a superb selling point for carnivores and those seeking a classic, high-quality steak experience in the heart of TST. Conference and event spaces, including the refreshed Grand Ballroom, cater to business needs with flexible setups. Additional amenities encompass a business centre and extensive public areas suited to TST's vibrant energy.
8. The Location Assessment - Junction of Nathan Road and Salisbury Road in TST Kowloon
I would wholeheartedly agree that this is one of the best locations in Hong Kong for a Hotel, particularly for those wanting to immerse themselves in the pulse of TST Kowloon. At the busy junction of Nathan Road and Salisbury Road, with a handy side entrance on Middle Road, it places guests in the very heart of the action. It is around a 10-minute walk to the Star Ferry terminal no matter which route you take, alongside easy access to cultural venues, markets, and endless dining and shopping. The harbour proximity adds that magical backdrop, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike.
Insider Tip for MTR (Subway) Users: By far the best exit to use at TST MTR (Subwa) Station is Exit H. Go up two sets of short escalators, exit from iSquare mall on Peking Road, turn left and walk to Nathan Road (takes about 20 seconds), cross at the major pedestrian crossing and head right - it will take you roughly 90 seconds to reach the Sheraton. This crossing is a tourist attraction in itself, so busy and vibrant with the energy of TST. This is absolutely the best exit as most of the other exits near the hotel require you to walk up 50 steps or more (the Exit E on Middle Road at the Post Office has some particularly horrible steps).
In my view, few spots capture the essence of Kowloon's hustle and heritage so perfectly - it is convenient without being overwhelming, and always alive with energy.
9. Top 5 Hotel Competitors in Hong Kong
Its top competitors in the TST and broader Hong Kong luxury market include the InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong (for its strong harbour views and established prestige in the immediate vicinity), the Kowloon Shangri-La (strong on service and dining), the Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong (iconic heritage and luxury), the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel (proximity and value in the area), and the newly opened Kimpton Hotel on Middle Road.
The Kimpton, just 90 seconds away from the Sheraton on Middle Road, brings a fresh, boutique-style vibe with modern design and personalised service that appeals to a younger or more lifestyle-oriented crowd. It rates as a direct and very close rival given the proximity, potentially drawing guests who prefer the Kimpton's contemporary flair over the Sheraton's larger-scale, traditional full-service model. These properties vie for similar guests seeking prime Kowloon access, with competition fierce on views, facilities, loyalty perks, and that all-important sense of place in TST. and you cannot miss the Kimpron, it is a massive, modern high rise building on the site of the old Mariners Club
10. The Deal with the Two Lobbies in the Sheraton Hotel + Towers Hong Kong
The two-lobby setup at the Sheraton is a distinctive architectural choice that can feel a bit unusual at first, though I am quite used to the two-level concept as the Upper House in Admiralty employs something similar. The ground floor street-level entrance features a practical lobby with plenty of seating, a concierge desk, and easy access for arrivals - perfect for the foot traffic of Nathan Road. An quite long escalator then whisks guests up to a more lavish main lobby on the upper floor (around level 2), which serves as the heart for check-in, the Lounge, and a grander welcome with better ambiance.
That said, the upper lobby itself is an enclosed space with literally no views - quite lovely in its own right with its refined design, but if you want any outlook you need a window seat in the adjacent coffee shop. This split design likely stems from the original 1970s layout, maximising street presence while creating a calmer, elevated sanctuary away from the bustle below. It works well once you get used to it, separating the functional entry from the more refined guest experience.
Additional Insights and Out-of-Left-Field Comments
Beyond these points, the Sheraton has quietly played a role in Hong Kong's tourism evolution, hosting everything from high-profile events to everyday travellers navigating the city's density. One quirky note is how its longevity means it has stories from pre-MTR (Subway) days to the current high-speed rail era - a living timeline. For photographers or observers like myself, the harbour-facing rooms offer endless fascination with passing vessels and skyline shifts. It also benefits from strong connectivity via public transport, making it a practical base even for those exploring further afield
.. and if you want a change of pace, cross over the road (liiterally) and step into the Peninsula Hotel (since 1928) for a milkshake in the lobby lounge.
So there you go
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I do not do Food Tours in Hong Kong but I know people that do!
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The information above can be shown to restaurant managers in Hong Kong if you are intolerant to gluten and nuts,
I do not do food tours as mentioned above, I have very specific reasons and part of it is that I do not speak Cantonese or write Chinese, I am from Yorkshire in England and I lack the language gene and it is not through lack of trying and yes a lot of restaurants do not have English menu’s or staff who speak conversational English.
.. and yet I have eaten at close to 1,400 restaurants in Hong Kong since January 2nd 1972, my wife was born in Hong Kong and we have been together over 40 years and her first language is Cantonese and a lot of her family are Chinese or half Chinese so I have never had much of an issue!
This does not translate to doing food tours though, yes, I could do them, no problem there but they would never ever be as good as the food tours done by my friends (see the 3 links above) most of their awesome guides are locally born Hong Kong Chinese and obviously food culture is part of their DNA, it is impossible for me to compete with that!
So please feel free to contact them for food tours
I do not do Hiking Tours in Hong Kong but I know someone that does!
I do not do Hiking Tours, never have and never will even though I used to go Hiking a lot when I was a lot younger, The Hong Kong Government is promoting hiking tours so I urge you to contact my friend Sabrina at Hong Kong Trails and Tours, she is a long time Hong Kong resident and and a very experienced hiker with close to 700 Hikes in 15+ years under her belt, please click on the link below
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