Kuching Waterfront

KUCHING WATERFRONT

Aptly called The People Place, Kuching Waterfront was built for the people of Sarawak and visitors alike. It is their place to enjoy, to entertain and be entertained. A heritage to be proud of, and a legacy to pass on to generations to come. Stretching approximately 1 km, with a riverside walk linking the hotel precinct with downtown Kuching, the Waterfront is 'self-contained' with facilities for entertainment, refreshment, relaxation, cultural enjoyment and arts appreciation. It is also a great place for family gatherings, corporate outings and school and community projects.
Coolies bustling over berthed junks. Hawking of wares, Indian chettiars haggling. Natives selling jungle produce. That was Sarawak River to Kuching. Then time intervened. Sarawak River was not what it used to be. Quietness settled in. The godowns deserted, the merchants shifted.
Thus, Kuching Waterfront was rebuilt to return the frontage to the people. Officially opened in 1993, it spans about 1 km, each step rich in local history and culture.
Structures are preserved. The frame of the amphitheatre was originally part of a godown built in 1929. Other testimonies of this endeavour are the buildings of Sarawak Steamship Company and Chinese Museum.
Tradition radiates from the Chinese Pavillion. Each step of the way is paved with mosaic panels depicting ethnic motifs.
Kuching of by-gone days is revealed on plaques along the promenade floor. Trace the White Rajah’s reign. Read about rebellions. And piracy.
Come evening, see the abstract Hornbill Fountain, and try some of the wide variety of food there.

The structures and facilities at the Kuching Waterfront represent a blend of existing historical buildings and additional modern facilities set in a beautifully landscaped background. The features also reflect a combination of local culture and modern technology and are characterized by the use of raw materials and designs unique to the Kuching Waterfront only. Examples include granite slabs and sets; copper roofing; granite and marble mosaics; cast aluminium and "belian" Kuching Waterfront railings; Kuching Waterfront rubbish bins; insect-repelling promenade lights; sculptures; etc.

Square Tower	Waterfront Square	Chinese Pavilion	Hornbill Fountain

Square Tower
Built in 1879 it was formerly a fortress, a jail and then converted into a dance hall. It is currently undergoing a refurbishment exercise.
Waterfront Square
An open space for martial arts training and demonstrations such as Silat, Tai Chi, Wushu, Taekwando. Also for assembly and large group activities such as mass aerobics.
Chinese Pavilion
A relic of the past, it was dismantled from its original location in front of the old courthouse, restored and transported to its present site. Chinese cultural music serenade the romance of the evening.
Hornbill Fountain
The Land of The Hornbills is translated into modern art in this water-cascading metallic sculpture.
Godown Amphitheatre
It is an open space mini-amphitheatre with seating capacity for approximately 200 persons. The Amphitheatre is regularly used for cultural performances, talent shows, product launchings, singing competitions, colouring contests and many more activities.
Floating Pontoon
Bob along with the waves, and watch the colourful tambangs.
Orangery
A canopy for special promotions and exhibitions.
Food Outlets
A wide variety of snacks, pastries, local favourites, hawker delights, fruits, tit-bits and beverages.
Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF)
Sarawak Tourism Federation (STF) office is located next to the Kuching Waterfront Management office.