[2025 Kota Kinabalu Attraction] Travel Guide for Atkinson Clock Tower (Updated Apr)

It was a short trip to Kota Kinabalu 🇲🇾 On our first day, we visited Gaya Street Sunday Market. We explored the bustling market filled with local crafts, food, and souvenirs. Gaya Street, historically known as Bond Street, dates back to the early 1900s when it was the main commercial hub of Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu). The market is a vibrant reflection of the city’s multicultural heritage, where you can find everything from local handicrafts to traditional snacks. ⏰6:30 AM - 1:00 PM (Sundays) 📍Jalan Gaya, Kota Kinabalu. We also visited the Sabah State Museum. The museum was established in 1965, houses an extensive collection of artifacts that tell the story of Sabah’s diverse ethnic groups, its colonial past, and its natural history. The museum complex also includes a Heritage Village, where traditional houses of various indigenous groups are on display. 💰 RM 15 (~$3.20 USD) ⏰ 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM 📍 Jalan Muzium, Kota Kinabalu. We also explored the Atkinson Clock Tower. It is one of the oldest standing structures in Kota Kinabalu. It was built in 1905, the Atkinson Clock Tower is a memorial to Francis George Atkinson, the first District Officer of Jesselton, who died of malaria at a young age. The clock tower survived the Allied bombing during World War II and remains one of the few pre-war structures still standing in the city. 📍 Signal Hill Road, Kota Kinabalu. We also explored the Signal Hill Observatory Platform to enjoy panoramic views of Kota Kinabalu and the surrounding islands. Signal Hill is the highest point in Kota Kinabalu, offering sweeping views of the city skyline, the coastline, and the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park. Historically, it served as a strategic lookout point during the British colonial era. 📍Jalan Bukit Bendera, Kota Kinabalu. If you are looking for a place for dinner, I would suggest you to try Welcome Seafood Restaurant. We ordered the Grilled tiger prawns, butter milk crab, and Sabah vegetable (Sabah Choy).They were all very delicious, highly recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ . 💰 RM 50 - RM 100 per person (~$11 - $22 USD). 📍 Lot G18, Komplex Asia City, Kota Kinabalu. We also visited Manukan Island 🏝️ We tried out various activities such as Snorkeling 🤿 and swimming. Manukan Island is part of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park and is the second largest island in the park. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and beach activities. 💰 RM 20 (~$4.30 USD) for non-Malaysians. 📍Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, a 20-minute boat ride from Jesselton Point. We also visited Sapi Island. If you are visiting the island 🏝️, I would recommend you to try Zip-lining, snorkeling, and jungle trekking. They were all very fun 💯 Sapi Island, also within the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park, is known for its pristine beaches and adventurous activities. The Coral Flyer, a zip line that connects Sapi Isl #malaysiatrip #vacation

Atkinson Clock Tower is the oldest man-made structure in Kota Kinabalu City. There is an interesting story of the tower: it was built in 1905 at the request of the mother in memory of her son, an officer who served in Jesselton and died here of malaria. This tower is one of the few sights of Kota Kinabalu that survived the bombing of World War II. Atkinson Clock Tower is located in Kota Kinabalu city centre, about 3 minutes walk from the Gaya Street. This white-coloured timepiece looks beautiful at night, when lit up. #bucketlistreboot #malaysia #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #summervacation #cityoverlook #tower #kotakinabalu

#kotakinabalutrip The **Atkinson Clock Tower** is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in **Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia**. Here’s a detailed review of this heritage site: ### **Overview** - **Location**: Jalan Balai Polis, near the KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu. - **Built in**: 1905. - **Height**: Approximately **15.7 meters (52 feet)**. - **Purpose**: Built as a memorial to **Francis George Atkinson**, the first District Officer of Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu), who died of malaria at age 28. ### **Historical Significance** - One of the **oldest surviving structures** in Kota Kinabalu, having survived World War II bombings. - Originally used as a **navigation aid** for ships entering the harbor. - A symbol of **British colonial history** in Sabah. ### **Architecture & Design** - **Wooden structure** with a **four-sided clock face**. - Features a **simple yet elegant** colonial-era design. - The clock mechanism was imported from **England**. ### **Visitor Experience** - **Free to visit** (no entrance fee). - **Great for photography**—blends colonial heritage with the modern city skyline. - **Surrounded by greenery**, offering a quiet spot in the bustling city. - **Nearby attractions**: Jesselton Hotel, Signal Hill Observatory, Filipino Market. ### **Pros** ✔ Rich historical value. ✔ Easily accessible in the city center. ✔ A peaceful, nostalgic landmark. ### **Cons** ✖ Relatively small—visitors may spend only 10-15 minutes here. ✖ Some wear and tear due to age (though preservation efforts exist). ### **Final Verdict** ⭐ **4/5** – A must-visit for history lovers, though not a major tourist attraction. Best combined with other nearby sights.