Firing up our city adventure is the Atkinson Clock Tower. It is one of the city’s oldest standing historical landmarks. Built more than a century ago, its antiquity made us feel a bit of nostalgia. Tourists pay respects to this tower as it stands as a silent witness to the finest and darkest days of Kota Kinabalu.
My son and little girl together with my Dad
Not from afar is the Signal Hill Observatory which nestled in the highest point of the city. Just few minutes of drive from Padang Merdeka is a view deck that offers the most idyllic spot for overlooking panoramas of the Kota Kinabalu, the South China Sea and the other outlying islands.
Signal Hill Observatory
Breathtaking view of the city. I must have taken quite a lot of photos here. The view really was amazing.
Of course, this is another mandatory shot of my Trio.
Creating a floating perspective at Likas Bay, Kota Kinabalu City Mosque is one of the best examples of Islamic architecture. Its vast perimeter shelters three madrasahs (Muslim schools) and accommodates around 12, 000 of Muslim worshippers. Remarkably, it is an enormous house of worship.
The Floating Mosque at Likas Bay
We were lucky to get inside as our tourist guide/taxi driver knew someone here. We only had to wear these garbs as a sign of respect which they happily lent us. Women can’t show their legs and have to wear a veil.
The carpeted floor is the worship area which we were prohibited from stepping on. It’s actually a very large area.
Plenty of ceiling fans.
Stunningly cuddled on a hill facing the South China Sea at Sepanggar Bay is the University of Malaysia. It is among the largest, most beautiful and most sought after universities in Sabah.
The University of Malaysia is so much like University of the Philippines. Lots of buildings scattered around its very large grounds. Lots of trees, too.
Another historical emblem in the heart of the city is the Mustapha Building. It houses a gallery that pays tribute to a visionary leader and one of Sabah’s first Head of State – Tun Mustapha. A showcase of interesting information and assorted memorabilia are all exhibited to commemorate Mustapha’s legacy.
Our taxi driver says that this building actually rotates but we never got to see it.
Spicing up the tour is the intricate architecture of Puh Toh Tze Chinese temple. Found on its overwhelming façade are the ten gigantic statues of deities. Reflecting the rich multiculturalism of Sabah, this old temple is exceptionally a must place to visit.
Our final stop is the Sabah State Museum. It could be the last destination but absolutely not the least place to enjoy. Filled with various historical and cultural items, this museum outstandingly immortalizes the richness of Sabah’s early way of life.
We didn’t get the chance to enter the museum as we were so hungry at this point.
But there were a few artifacts displayed outside like this boat here…
and a few vintage cars.
Getting through this urban sprawl is another amazing reminiscence that my family and I will surely cherish. Kota Kinabalu truly offers an enlightening milieu of architectural, cultural, and historical landmarks. It is indeed a city that captured our hearts. So why wait, let yourself fall in love with this marvelous city.
Just some of the houses we saw while riding the taxi. Very similar to Manila, right?
Hi there! I’m going to KK in 8 days with my officemate. I’m currently working on our itinerary right now. I’m considering 3 different tours: Klias River Tour (the one with the monkeys and fireflies), City Tour, and Kinabalu Park. Since we’re on a tight budget, we can only choose 2 tours.
Is the city tour worth it? Or is it something we could do on our own?
I’d really appreciate your feedback. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thanks!