Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China and a global financial center, has long been British colony- and this could not but affect his character. Now it is a beautiful modern city, surrounded by mountains and the ocean, located on the Kowloon Peninsula and 260 islands. A city where you can dive into culture or go hiking in the mountains (and soak up the beach in the summer) - but it's best to just fall into its rhythm. A trip to Hong Kong is, which, however, will bring you a lot of pleasure and impressions. Forward! (The guide was first published on August 2, 2017).
Guide content:
It won't be cheap to get to Hong Kong, accept it. From Minsk with a transfer in Moscow on Aeroflot you will fly round-trip for $ 650. From Moscow, it is most profitable to use the services of Emirates - from $ 536 in both directions. Approximately $ 650-700 will cost a trip from Kyiv with a transfer in Amsterdam or Paris. Pay attention also to Turkish Airlines and Air China, sometimes their sales allow you to save a lot.
Adventures in Hong Kong start right from the airport. Firstly, when the plane is landing, it seems that it is landing right on the water - and this is very beautiful. You can take a walk inside the airport if you are interested in the history of one of the largest and most expensive airfields in the world, which is listed in the Guinness Book of Records. Hong Kong International Airport It has informal name Chek Lap Kok Airport. This is the name of the island on which it was built in 1998. Despite a short history, he has repeatedly won awards as. There is such a variety of entertainment that you can easily gape and miss your flight: a restaurant with an observation deck on the roof of Terminal 1, an entertainment center with a 4D cinema, an aviation center, an interactive Asia Hollywood theme center and a huge gym in terminal number 2. In the air center, by the way, you can try yourself as a pilot.
There are several options for getting from the airport:
By taxi. In Hong Kong, taxis are colour-coded. Red city taxis connect the airport with Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and partly with the new cities of Quan Wan, Sa Thin and Chen Gwan Ou. City taxis will be able to take you anywhere in Hong Kong except south island Lantau. Green taxis connect the airport with the New Territories, except for those places where the "red" ones work. Blue taxis run only between the airport and Lantau. A trip to the city center will cost you 220-360 HKD ($ 1 = 7.8 HKD) depending on the area.
By bus. There are many buses from the Cheong Tat Road Transportation Center at the airport to Hong Kong. Buses A and E run from Hong Kong to the airport, except for E21A, E21X, E31. The orange color of the bus means that it is equipped for a large amount of luggage. A city bus ticket costs 22-48 HKD ($3-6).
On the Aeroexpress. Its route is as follows: stations Tsing Yi, Kowloon, Hong Kong. The interval of movement is every 10-12 minutes. Travel time - 24 minutes. Aeroexpress runs from 5.54 to 0.48. The fare to the Hong Kong station is 115 HKD ($ 13).
From the airport you can take a ferry to the Pearl River Delta. This mode of transport is available only to air passengers. Access to the ferry terminal is in front of immigration for arriving passengers.
Public transport
Hong Kong has a cool subway: a real underground city with shops, eateries and ATMs. On it you can quickly get anywhere, including to another island. In addition, ferries sail between the islands, which are especially good in sunny weather. You can also take a taxi to anywhere in Hong Kong, the main thing is to know the color of the taxi you need. If you suddenly don’t remember what color your taxi should be, the drivers will always tell you - every second one speaks English. You can also travel by bus - there are countless of them. Specify the number you need from the controller - and go! If you have time and your destination is not very far, the most interesting thing is to walk along the narrow streets and enjoy the atmosphere, look into shops, shops and nooks and crannies, have a bite to eat somewhere in a place you like, become part of the city.
There are not many good hostels in Hong Kong, unfortunately. Most hostels are located in the center, but they are very small, dirty and leave a bad impression. However, there are a few that are distinguished by comfort and a pleasant atmosphere.
Check Inn HK (Flat A, 2/F, Kwong Wah Mansion, 269-273 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong) - 5 minutes from Wan Chai MRT Station and 10 minutes from Hong Kong Exhibition Centre. It takes 45 minutes to get here from the airport. It is cozy here, there is a place to store luggage, at the reception they can change money and tell you where to go and what to do. In this hostel, you can rent a bed in a dormitory room for $31 per night, a double room or a single room with a shared bathroom for $80 and $60, respectively.
The Mahjong (1/F, 2A Ma Hang Chung Road, To Kwa Wan, Kowloon, Hong Kong) . Cheerful hostel with graffiti walls and the unusual option of double bunk beds in dorms ($72). The road here will take 50 minutes by bus A22 from the airport. To the party area of bars and nightclubs Lan Kwai Fong 20 minutes, to the central Tsim Sha Tsui in the harbor with a promenade, shops and restaurants - 15 minutes. An ordinary bed in a common room can be rented here for $ 32-43, depending on the availability of air conditioning and a bathroom in the room.
Bay Bridge Hong Kong by Hotel G (123 Castle Peak Road, Ting Kau, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong) . This hotel has the option of renting a studio room for $106 per night, a bed in a dormitory room at the Campus Hong Kong Hostel (located right on site) for $35, and a private room with pool access for $124. Bay Bridge is located at a decent distance from the center, but it has a lot of advantages: a beautiful view of the river, a swimming pool, a restaurant and a gym, a free transfer to and from the hotel to the nearest Tsuen Wan subway throughout the day until midnight, regular buses, plying to the airport next to the hotel.
Jockey Club Mt. Davis Youth Hostel (123 Mount Davis Path, Southern District, Hong Kong) . Quite simple, clean and concise hostel with stunning sea views and an outdoor area for watching sunsets. Relatively close to the center, the airport and the famous Victoria Peak. A double room with a choice of a double bed or two single beds costs $ 85 here, a place in a dormitory room is $ 32.
Hop Inn on Mody (5/F, Lyton Building, 36 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong) - a hostel for creative people in the heart of the popular Tsim Sha Tsui. There are a large number of private rooms with amenities, and the rooms are painted by local artists. In each of them you can live for $ 99-110. There is also the option of a bed in a dormitory for $31-39 per night. The rooms have air conditioning. The hostel is three minutes from Victoria Harbour, the monumental Cultural Center and Museum of Art and 45 minutes from the airport.
Wontonmeen (1/F 135 Lai Chi Kok Road Kowloon, Tai Kok Tsui, Hong Kong) - the place is conceptual and original. Netted beds ($39 per night), books, unusual light and color combinations, hammocks, a terrace - all together it looks like an art apartment. Wontonmeen is located next to Temple Street and Ladies' market http://www.ladies-market.hk/.
Just Hotel (Flat F, 8th Floor, Wing Lee Building, 27-33 Kimberley Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong) . Minimalism and coziness, pleasant atmosphere and comfort near Victoria Harbor, Kowloon Park and iSquare shopping center. Bed in dormitory - $49.
First of all, go to the promenade in Tsim Sha Tsui with beautiful views of Victoria Harbour. This is the very center and one of the most popular places in Hong Kong with museums, galleries and restaurants.
If you want to look at Hong Kong from a bird's eye view - you should go to Victoria Peak. You can get to the top by bus, but it is more interesting to take the funicular tram. There are queues, it’s hot during the day, but after sunset it’s cool and the whole city shines in the lights. It's worth seeing at least once in your life. At the top you can climb the Peak Tower (128 Peak Road, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong Island) - there is an observation deck, and in gallery nearby - restaurants and shops. At the lower tram station, you can go to the historical gallery to study the history of both the funicular line and Hong Kong itself.
Snack
Near night market (Temple Street, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon) there is a lot of asian street food. Prices are also much lower than in restaurants. If in a restaurant you pay from 200-250 HKD and above, then here you can overeat and get drunk up to 200 HKD ($ 25). There is no such thing as a lot of rice and noodles in Hong Kong. In combination with meat, seafood and vegetables, spicy and not very dishes acquire a special taste of homemade food, and the portions are so huge that one is enough for half a day. There is nothing special to buy at the market itself, there is a lot of junk at inflated prices. But in some stalls you can find rare items like antique watches on a chain around your neck, unusual wallets, figurines and jewelry. So you can take the chance and pick up unique gifts for yourself, family and friends. To get here, you need to get off at Jordan Subway Station (Exit A) and go to Temple Street.
For breakfast, there is a small but special place near the same metro station - Australia Dairy Company (47 Parkes St, Jordan) ! It is popular because the food here is incredibly tasty. Here you will be served soup, scrambled eggs and a sandwich - perhaps the most delicious of those that you have already managed to taste in your life, with Asian-strong milk tea. The cost of such a breakfast is also very small for Hong Kong - about 50 HKD ($ 7) The place is so popular that you need to prepare for a possible queue - but the food is worth it.
In a huge mall harbor city (3-27 Canton Road) the famous Tsim Sha Tsui has an Asian food court for all tastes. By the way, here you can take a chance and try China's spiciest food from Sichuan province. But get ready for not just sharpness, but for tongues of flame inside and bitter tears outside.
Cafe / Restaurants
Check out a real underground Japanese restaurant Rakuen (Unit E, 4 / F, Ho Lee Commercial Bldg, 38-44 D "Aguilar St) , where only those who know about it and appreciate the real tastiest gather. It is located on Bridges Street at 38/44 on the fourth floor.
Yes, you will be able to taste the most delicious Italian food in Hong Kong. Family restaurant
State?" What is it? A beautiful city or a huge territorial district? If you ask the residents themselves, they will answer with confidence: "The capital!" After all, Hong Kong is the capital of Asian culture and cinema, Asian fashion, the economy and, in general, the European metropolis in the center Asia.
However, Hong Kong has never been the capital of any state. In general, until 1842, until the British chose this amazing place, it was virtually nothing. These were groups of islands on which small fishing villages huddled. One of them was called "Hong Kong". The country in which it was located is the Great Chinese Empire. However, England needed a convenient location for the opium trade with China. And it was in this place that the British decided to build their trading port. They leased Hong Kong and the entire Chinese mainland around it. Thus, the former fishing village has turned into a real gem.
China was rapidly developing, and the UK was left with no opportunity to extend the lease on Hong Kong. However, its return to China caused a complete imbalance - China, soaked through with communism, and capitalist Hong Kong absolutely did not fit each other. China demanded complete control over the media, politics and the minds of citizens, and the city was used to living freely and democratically in a European way, acting only by its own standards. This is how the idea of the transitional principle arose. From 1997 until now, Hong Kong on the map and in the world community has become a Special Administrative Region of China. At the same time, having received relative domestic economic and political freedom, he lost foreign policy.
Many mistakenly still believe that Hong Kong is a city. But it's not. Hong Kong is an association of regions in China. Therefore, the question of whether Hong Kong is a country or a city is absolutely incorrect. He is like neither, nor the other, and all together. He is unique and inimitable.
Today, Hong Kong is an amazing mixture of all the achievements of the West and the unique flavor of the East. Here charming colonial mansions coexist with soaring skyscrapers. During the construction of many buildings, the principles of Feng Shui were used with might and main. For example, the facades are lined with mirror coatings to scare away evil spirits. Or the corners of buildings: their bevelling or rounding means friendliness and protection from evil influences.
By the way, the name "Hong Kong" is translated as "fragrant port". In this regard, the main motive of the urban landscape is water and greenery. Hong Kong is truly green and fragrant. Plants are all around here, both in the city itself and in the famous Victoria Park. It is here that Victoria Peak is located - the highest point of the entire Hong Kong Island (552 meters above sea level).
Hong Kong is a land of contrasts. It combines a wide variety of cultures, spiritualities, beliefs and architectural styles. Hong Kong - "Asian New York", the former but, above all, it is the legacy of the great Chinese civilization, keeping its deep traditions, which are passed down from generation to generation.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
History of Hong Kong, geographical characteristics and climate of Hong Kong, color of Hong Kong, traditions, mentality and habits
Section 1. History of Hong Kong.
Section 2. Geography of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is located on the Kowloon Peninsula, washed by the South China Sea from the west, south and east, as well as on more than 260 islands, the largest of which are Hong Kong (the location of the supreme and financial center of the territory), Lantau and Lamma. In the north, Hong Kong is bordered by a special economic zone Shenzhen as a part Chinese province Guangdong. Hong Kong is usually divided into three parts: Hong Kong Island itself, Kowloon and the New Territories.
History of Hong Kong
In 1997, the Asian economy of 1997, which hit many East Asian countries, had a serious negative impact on the Hong Kong economy. In the same year, the first human infection with the H5N1 avian influenza virus was recorded in Hong Kong. In 1998, after six years of construction, the new Hong Kong International Airport was opened as part of the Central Airport Construction Program. This project was part of an ambitious port and airport strategy drawn up in the early 1980s.
In the first half of 2003, an epidemic of the SARS virus broke out in Hong Kong. Dong Jianhua - Chief Executive of Hong Kong (1997-2005), was criticized and accused of making mistakes in overcoming the 1997 Asian financial crisis and not taking proper measures in the fight against SARS. Also in 2003, the Dong Jianhua administration tried to pass Article 23 of Basic Hong Kong, which made it possible to violate the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people. As a result of half a million protest demonstrations, the administration was forced to abandon these plans. In 2004, during the same mass demonstrations, the people of Hong Kong demanded the introduction in 2007 of the general election of the head of the SAR. In March 2005, at the request of the Chinese leadership, Dong Jianhua resigned.
Immediately after the resignation of Dong Jianhua, this place was taken by his deputy Donald Tsang. On March 25, 2007, Donald Tsang was re-elected for a second term.
The earliest discovered human settlements on the territory of modern Hong Kong date back to the Paleolithic. The region was first incorporated during the Qin Dynasty and served as a trading port and naval base during the Tang and Song dynasties. The first European whose visit to the region was documented was Jorge Alvaris in 1513. After the opening of a branch of the British East India in Canton (Guangzhou), the presence of the British began to grow in the region.
From the beginning of the 19th century, the British began to actively import opium into China. In 1839, the Qing court imposed a ban on opium, and launched the First Opium War against China. Hong Kong Island was first occupied by the British in 1841, and at the end of the war in 1842 officially came under the British under the Treaty of Nanjing. A year later, the city of Victoria (English) Russian was founded on the island, and the territory received the official status of a crown colony (corresponding to the current "overseas territories"). In 1860, after the defeat of China in the Second Opium War, the territories of the Kowloon Peninsula south of Boundary Street and Stonecutting Island were transferred to the perpetual possession of Great Britain under the Treaty of Peking. In 1898, Great Britain took from China for 99 years the adjacent territory in the north of the Kowloon Peninsula and Lantau Island, which were called the New Territories.
Hong Kong was declared a free port to facilitate its role as the British Empire's transshipment base in Southeast Asia. In 1910, the Kowloon-Canton Railway opened, linking Guangzhou and Kowloon. Its terminus was located in the Tsim Sha Tsui area. The British system of education was introduced into the colony. In the 19th century, the local Chinese population had little contact with the wealthy Europeans who settled at the foot of Victoria Peak.
During World War II, on December 8, 1941, the Empire of Japan attacked Hong Kong. The Battle of Hong Kong ended on 25 December with the defeat of the British and Canadian forces defending the colony. During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, food shortages were common and worsened, which was caused by the forced exchange of currency for the military. The population of Hong Kong, before the war, amounted to 1.6 million people, by 1945 had decreased to 600 thousand. On August 15, it capitulated, and Great Britain restored sovereignty over Hong Kong.
After the Second World War, China broke out, which led to a wave of new migrants from the mainland, so the population of Hong Kong quickly recovered. After the proclamation of the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1949, an even greater flow of migrants poured into Hong Kong, fearing persecution by the Communist Party of China. Many companies have moved their offices to Hong Kong from Shanghai and Guangzhou. The communist government pursued an increasingly isolationist policy, and in this situation, Hong Kong remained the only channel through which the PRC contacted the West. After China's entry into the Korean War, the UN imposed an embargo on the PRC, and trade with the continent ceased.
Thanks to population growth and the cheapness of labor, textile production and others grew rapidly. Along with industrialization, the main engine of the economy became foreign markets. As a result of growth, the standard of living has risen steadily. The construction of the Sack Kip May Estate residential community marked the beginning of the community housing development program. In 1967, Hong Kong was plunged into the chaos of street riots. Influenced by left-wing protesters inspired by the outbreak on the mainland, the workers turned into a violent uprising against the colonial government that lasted until the end of the year.
In 1974, the Independent Commission for the Prevention of Corruption was formed, which succeeded in minimizing the state apparatus. Since the start of China's reforms in 1978, Hong Kong has become a major source of foreign investment in China. A year later, close to northern Hong Kong in the province of Guangdong, China's first special economic zone, Shenzhen, was formed. The textile and manufacturing component in Hong Kong's economy gradually decreased, giving priority to finance and the banking sector. After graduation Vietnam War in 1975, it took the Hong Kong authorities another 25 years to resolve the problem of the return of Vietnamese refugees to their homeland.
In light of the lease term of the New Territories ending in 20 years, the British government began to discuss the issue of Hong Kong's sovereignty with the PRC authorities from the beginning of the 1980s. In 1984, the two countries signed the Sino-British Joint Declaration, according to which in 1997 sovereignty over the entire territory of Hong Kong was to be transferred to the PRC. The declaration stated that Hong Kong should acquire the status of a special administrative region within the PRC, which would allow it to maintain its laws and a high degree of autonomy for at least 50 years after the transfer. Many Hong Kong residents were unsure that these promises would be kept and chose to emigrate, especially after the brutal crackdown on student demonstrations in Beijing in 1989.
In 1990, the Basic Law of Hong Kong was approved, which was supposed to play a role after the transfer of sovereignty. Despite strong objections from Beijing, Hong Kong Governor Chris Patten has reformed the election of the Hong Kong Legislative Council, democratizing it. The transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong took place at midnight on July 1, 1997, accompanied by solemn ceremony transfer of Hong Kong to the Hong Kong Exhibition and Exhibition Centre. Dong Jianhua became the first Chief Minister of the Hong Kong SAR Administration.
Geography of Hong Kong
Hong Kong consists of Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and about 260 small islands. The New Territories adjoin the Kowloon Peninsula from the north, and beyond their northern border by the Shenzhen River.
In total, Hong Kong includes 262 islands in the South China Sea, the largest of which is Lantau Island. The second largest and the first in terms of population is Hong Kong Island.
The name "Hong Kong" literally means "fragrant harbour" and comes from the name of the area in the modern district of Aberdeen on Hong Kong Island. It used to sell fragrant wood products and incense. The narrow strip of water separating Hong Kong and the Kowloon Peninsula is called Victoria Bay. It is one of the deepest natural seaports in the world.
Land border:
total: 30 km;
regional borders: China 30 km
Coastal length:
Coastal claims:
territorial sea: 3 nautical miles
tropical monsoons; cool and damp in winter, hot and rainy in spring and summer, warm and sunny in autumn
Terrain:
hilly and mountainous terrain with steep cliffs; plains in the north
deep water harbour, feldspars
Land use:
land cultivation: 5.05%;
cereal growing: 1.01%;
other: 93.94% (2001)
Land cultivation:
20 sq. km (1998, estimate)
water and air pollution due to rapid urbanization
Environment - international :
First Commercial Bank (USA)
Fleet National Bank (USA)
HSBC Bank USA (USA - UK)
United Commercial Bank (USA)
Chiba Bank (Japan)
Chugoku Bank (Japan)
Mitsubishi UFJ Confiding propert and PC banking Corporation (Japan)
Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ (Japan)
Shiga Bank (Japan)
Shinkin Central Bank (Japan)
Iyo Bank (Japan)
Hachijuni Bank (Japan)
Industrial Bank of Taiwan (Taiwan)
Chinatrust Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
International Bank of Taipei (Taiwan)
Bank of Taiwan (Taiwan)
Cathay United Bank Company (Taiwan)
Taipei Fubon Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
Taishin International Bank (Taiwan)
E.Sun Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
Hua Nan Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
Taiwan Business Bank (Taiwan)
Bank Sinopac (Taiwan)
Chang Hwa Commercial Bank (Taiwan)
Bank of India (India)
State Bank of India (India)
Indian Overseas Bank (India)
Punjab National Bank (India)
Allahabad Bank (India)
Union Bank of India (India)
Canara Bank (India)
Axis Bank (India)
Corporation Bank (India)
ICICI Bank (India)
Bank of Baroda (India)
Baden-Württembergische Bank (Germany)
Bank of Nova Scotia (Canada)
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (Canada)
National Australia Bank (Australia)
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (Australia)
Australia and new Zealand PC banking Group (Australia)
Macquarie Group (Australia)
Banca di Roma (Italy)
Banca Monte Dei Paschi Di Siena (Italy)
Banca Nazionale del Lavoro (Italy)
Intesa Sanpaolo (Italy)
ING Bank (Netherlands)
Rabobank (Netherlands)
Fortis Bank (Belgium - Netherlands)
KBC Bank (Belgium)
Svenska Handelsbanken (Sweden)
Philippine National Bank (Philippines)
Banco de Oro Unibank (Philippines)
Erste Bank Der Oesterreichischen Sparkassen (Austria)
LGT Bank in Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein)
Bangkok Bank (Thailand)
Bank Negara Indonesia (Indonesia)
National Bank of Pakistan (Pakistan)
Population of Hong Kong
During the 1990s, Hong Kong's population began to grow rapidly. As of the end of 2010, it is over 7 million people. About 95% of Hong Kong residents are ethnic Chinese, most of whom are Cantonese, as well as such Chinese ethnic groups like the Hakka and the Chaozhou people. Cantonese, a variety of Chinese spoken in the neighboring Chinese province of Guangdong, is the main lingua franca in Hong Kong. official languages The territories are Chinese (without specifying a specific variety) and English. According to the 1996 census, 3.1% of Hong Kong residents named English everyday communication, 34.9% named English as a second language. Bilingual signs in Chinese and English are found throughout Hong Kong. After the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, the influx of immigrants from mainland China increased. The use of Putonghua, the official language of mainland China, has also increased. with the mainland economy has led to the need for people who can speak Mandarin.
The remaining 5% are non-Chinese ethnic groups, which, despite their small numbers, form a very visible group. The South Asian population of Hong Kong consists of Indians, Pakistanis and a small number of Nepalese. The Vietnamese who fled the war became permanent residents of Hong Kong. About 140,000 Filipinos work as domestic helpers in Hong Kong. There are also domestic helpers from Indonesia, and their number is constantly growing. Europeans, Americans, Australians, Canadians, Japanese and Koreans also work in the commercial and financial sector in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated countries(dependent territories) in the world, the population density is more than 6200 people per km². The average number of births per woman is 0.95. This is one of the lowest rates in the world, far below 2.1, the level required to maintain a constant population. Despite this, Hong Kong's population continues to grow thanks to an influx of 45,000 immigrants from mainland China every year. Average life expectancy in Hong Kong in 2006 was 81.6 years, the fifth highest in the world. Within the borders of Hong Kong is the most populous island in the world - Ap Lei Chau.
The population of Hong Kong is mainly concentrated in the extremely densely populated center of the territory, consisting of Kowloon and the northern part of Hong Kong Island. The population density in other parts of the territory is much less. Several million residents live unevenly in the New Territories, the south of Hong Kong Island and Lantau Island. Everything more Hong Kongers prefer to live in mainland Shenzhen, where prices are much lower, and commute to Hong Kong for work.
Age structure
0-14 years old: 13.8% (men 498,771/women 454,252);
15-64 years old: 73.5% (men 2,479,656/women 2,591,170);
65 years and over: 12.7% (men 404,308/women 470,529) (2005, est.)
Average age:
overall: 39.4 years;
men: 39.3 years;
women: 39.6 years (2005, forecast)
Nationality:
noun: Chinese/Hong Kongers;
adjective: Chinese/Hong Kongers
Ethnic groups: Chinese 95%, other 5%
As of 2006, there were 295,000 Canadians living in Hong Kong ( absolute majority of them are ethnic Chinese), 112.5 thousand Filipinos, 88 thousand Indonesians, 60 thousand Americans (the absolute majority of them are ethnic Chinese), 20.5 thousand Indians, 16 thousand Nepalese, 13.5 thousand Japanese, 12 thousand Thais, 11 thousand Pakistanis and 5 thousand Koreans.
Religions: Selective mixtures of local religions 90%, Christianity 10%.
Languages: Chinese (Cantonese), English; both are official.
Education and culture of Hong Kong
As a former British Overseas Territory, Hong Kong has largely retained the UK education system, in particular the English education system. For more high steps Hong Kong has both British and American system. The University of Hong Kong, the oldest tertiary institution in Hong Kong, has traditionally been based on British model, however, in last years absorbed some features of the American model. The second-oldest founding Chinese University of Hong Kong replicates the American model with a special british system colleges. Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is based on the American model higher education. Hong Kong has nine public universities and several private universities. One notable example is Lingnan University in Thunmun District, the only university in Hong Kong that offers instruction in the seven liberal arts.
Public educational institutions in Hong Kong are supervised by the Department of Education of the Government of the Hong Kong SAR. The system includes non-mandatory three-year kindergartens, followed by a mandatory six-year elementary education and three years of lower secondary education; then non-mandatory two-year upper secondary education culminating in the Hong Kong Educational Examination Certificate, followed by two years of preparation for the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examinations. In 2009-2012, the gradual introduction of the new 3+3+4 system is planned, consisting of a three-year course of the first stage of secondary school, a three-year course of the second stage and a four-year higher education. Hong Kong also has universities offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees, other higher diplomas and junior diplomas.
The leading educational institutions in Hong Kong can be divided into three categories: public, subsidized and private institutions. The first category is the smallest, the largest number of educational institutions are subsidized, receiving assistance from the government and grants from charitable organizations, often of a religious orientation. As a rule, these are Christian and Catholic organizations, but they may also include Buddhist, Taoist, Islamic and Confucian organizations. At the same time, private educational institutions are often run by Christian organizations. Outside this system there are institutions within the direct system and private international schools.
Hong Kong is often described as the place where East meets West, which is reflected in its economic infrastructure, architecture, education and urban culture. On one street you can find traditional Chinese shops selling Chinese medicines, Buddhist incense or shark fin soup. But right around the corner you can see a cinema with the latest Hollywood blockbuster, an English pub, a Catholic church or McDonald's. The official languages of the Territory are Chinese and English, and bilingual signs are found throughout Hong Kong. Government agencies, police, most institutions and shops conduct business in both languages. Although British rule ended in 1997, Western culture is deeply rooted in Hong Kong and co-exists in harmony with traditional Eastern philosophies and traditions.
The cosmopolitan spirit of Hong Kong is also reflected in the variety of cuisines on display. The most popular are various areas of Chinese cuisine, especially seafood, while there are many European, American, Japanese, Korean and other restaurants in Hong Kong. The local cuisine is also very popular, which can be found in chachhantheng and taiphaitong. Hong Kong people take food very seriously, which is why Hong Kong is a destination that attracts top chefs from all over the world.
Along with the status of one of the centers of world trade, Hong Kong is also a major exporter of entertainment products, in particular, the martial arts genre. Several Hollywood celebrities are from Hong Kong, including Bruce Lee, Chow Yun-Fat, Jackie Chan. Hong Kong has also given Hollywood some outstanding film directors such as John Woo, Wong Kar-wai, Tsui Hark, Heping. Hong Kong films have also achieved worldwide fame several times, such as Chungking Express, Infernal Affairs, Killer Football, Showdown in the Bronx and In the Mood for Love. Famous director Quentin Tarantino in an interview said that he big influence provided by the Hong Kong militants. Hong Kong is also main center production of cantopop music. Many movie stars live in Hong Kong. Karaoke culture is part of Hong Kong's nightlife.
The Hong Kong government supports cultural institutions such as the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts and the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, the Hong Kong Department of Entertainment and Cultural Services subsidizes and sponsors overseas artists visiting Hong Kong.
Landmarks of Hong Kong
Tourism is an important part of the tertiary sector of the Hong Kong economy, which began to develop rapidly in the late 1980s and early 90s. The surge in tourists from the Chinese mainland was associated with the introduction of the Individual Travel Scheme in 2003.
In 2006, the total amount related to tourism reached 117.3 billion Hong Kong dollars. The number of tourists arriving in Hong Kong in 2006 increased by 8.1% to 25.25 million tourists, lower than expected by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, which expected 27 million tourists. The number of visitors from mainland China has exceeded 13.5 million. And in December 2006, the number of visitors exceeded 2.4 million, surpassing the record setting by one month. International trade and financial services is one of the top three sources of income for Hong Kong.
In December 2006, there were 612 hotels and tourist lodges in Hong Kong with total strength 52,512 numbers. The average occupancy of all categories of hotels and tourist houses is 87% for the whole year 2006. This is one percent more than in 2005, although in December 2006 the occupancy rate was 7.4% compared to December 2005. In 2006, 62.7% of all visitors stayed one night or more, a trend reflecting Hong Kong's growing importance as a regional transport hub.
The Tourism Commission was established in May 1999 to promote the quality of Hong Kong as an international city of Asia for all visitors. The Tourism Strategy Group, composed of representatives from the government, the Hong Kong Tourism Board and various sectors of the tourism industry, was formed to advise the government on tourism development from a strategic point of view.
Victoria Peak
Stanley area
Repulse Bay
International Financial Center
Victoria bay
Aberdeen Harbor
lanquaiphon
Soho area
ocean park
Symphony of Lights
Including New Kowloon Hong Kong Art Museum
Avenue of Stars
Chunkin Mansions
Clock Tower Hong Kong Cultural Center
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
Hong Kong Historical Museum
Hong Kong Observatory Kowloon Park
Nathan Road
ocean terminal
Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong Science Museum
Space Museum
star ferry
Wong Tai Xin Temple
New territories
Including Hong Kong Outlying IslandsChekung Temple
Chyeongchau Island
Disneyland
Hong Kong Heritage Museum Hong Kong Railway Museum
swampy park in hong kong
Ngonping Pingsan
Tayou Village
Big Buddha
Tinkau Bridge
The Hong Kong entry quota for visitors from mainland China was abolished in January 2002. The number of travel agents authorized to organize tours has also increased significantly. Citizens from around 170 countries can visit Hong Kong without a visa for periods ranging from seven to 180 days. The Individual Travel Scheme (ITS) was introduced on 28 July 2003. The scheme is gradually expanding to cover the provinces of Guangdong, Shanghai, Beijing, Chongqing, Tianjin and nine cities in Fujian, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. In 2006, more than 6.6 million inhabitants of the continent in Hong Kong on the IVS. This is 20.2% more than in 2005.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board continues to promote appointments for business people and tourists all over the world through their company "Hong Kong is life, this is love!" (eng. Hong Kong - Live it, Love it!). After opening in 2005 using several new rides, 2006 was declared the "Year of Hong Kong". The global marketing campaign uses a series of strategic promotions to showcase Hong Kong's new image and promote its "must-see" in 2006. A number of joint overseas initiatives are under way with Macau and nine provincial tourism bureaus.
Hong Kong is called the New York of Asia, although there are even more skyscrapers in it than in the American metropolis. Hong Kong consists of the islands of Hong Kong, Kowloon, the New Territories and a number of smaller islands. In 1997, it was returned by the UK to the Republic of China, after which Hong Kong was given a special status within China. Hong Kong's cityscapes are breathtaking, especially in the evenings, but there's plenty more to see and do than that.
Victoria Peak is the highest point in Hong Kong, offering a wonderful view of the entire city. This attraction attracts millions of tourists every year. The best way to get to the very top of the Peak is to take a special tram that runs every 10-15 minutes from the city center. The trip lasts about 7 minutes. Particularly exciting is the last leg of the journey, when the tram overcomes the steepest climb. At the top of the Peak is a recently completely restored tower (Peak Tower), shaped like a Chinese frying pan.
The observation deck of the tower offers the most beautiful view of Hong Kong, but the tower itself deserves no less attention: it houses numerous shops and restaurants, in addition, dance and music performances are regularly organized here. The tower also houses the Museum. wax figures Madame Tussauds. All together it gives the impression of a big fair. The Peak has a playground for children (Mount Austin), not far from which is the beautiful Victoria Peak Garden with a beautiful panorama of the Hong Kong port. For the more active tourist, there is a hiking trail around the Peak that provides you with ever-changing views of Hong Kong and the surrounding area. During the journey, you can relax on specially provided picnic areas.
Man-Mo Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hong Kong, built in 1848, immediately after Hong Kong Island came into British possession. Throughout the history of its existence, the temple has been rebuilt several times. In China, there are quite a few Man-Mo temples built in honor of two gods: Man, the god of literature, and Mo, the god of war. In the Hong Kong temple, you can meet both Buddhists, in whose religion there are no gods, and adherents of Taoism, who worship many gods. Once upon a time, the Man-Mo temple was a place for resolving conflicts: the disputing parties wrote their promises on yellow paper, and those who did not keep their promises were punished. After that, a chicken was killed, the blood of which was supposed to be spilled on paper with oaths, the paper was then burned.
A heavy smell of incense constantly hangs in the temple. Visitors can light the incense stick themselves, and there must be three sticks: one for the past, one for the present, and one for the future. At the entrance are beautifully executed wooden thrones in the form of small houses. During important holidays they carry the figures of the gods Man and Mo through the streets of Hong Kong. Those who wish to know their future can turn to the numerous soothsayers who work at the temple. They make their predictions with the help of a piece of bamboo, in which there are sticks with numbers. The wand that fell out first metaphorically talks about what awaits you in the future. This ritual is able to interest even the most recent skeptic.
Wong Tai Sin Temple.
Taoist temple Wong Tai Sin was named after a shepherd who had the gift of a healer and became a follower of Taoism at the age of 15. At the age of 55, he achieved enlightenment and, therefore, immortality. Followers of Taoism believe that the spirit of Wong Tai Sin is able to heal serious ailments, as well as bring happiness and prosperity, so the temple is always a huge number of visitors, especially on major holidays, such as Chinese New Year. It becomes especially crowded in the temple on the 23rd day of the Taoist 8th month, on the birthday of Wong Tai Sin. Visitors light incense sticks and, muttering softly, make their deepest desires. If the wish comes true, you must definitely return to the temple to thank the spirit. An image of Wong Tai Sin hangs at the main altar.
The modern building of the temple is not very old, it was built in 1973 on the site where in 1921 there was already one temple. This is a fine example of Chinese temple building with red columns and a golden roof. The temple complex also includes the Wall of Nine Dragons, made in imitation of the famous Beijing wall. As in other temples, Wong Tai Sin Temple has a lot of fortunetellers, besides, here you can find a shop with traditional Chinese medicines. Around the complex are beautiful Chinese gardens, in one of which, Good Wish Garden, you can wish each other all the best.
Ferry Star Ferry.
The Star Ferry is a fun way to take in the views of Hong Kong from the water. Ferries run between Hong Kong and Kowloon. During the trip, you will get to know the city from a completely different perspective. The view of the port and the skyline of Hong Kong are truly beautiful, which is why ferry trips are very popular with tourists. The first ferries from Victoria Harbor started operating as early as late XIX century. They were somewhat smaller than today's, containing approx. 750 passengers. The upper deck of modern ferries belongs to the first class, air conditioners are installed here, relieving passengers from the heat. The ferry makes four stops: Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Wan Chai and Hung Hom.
Today, there are other ways to get from Hong Kong Island to the Kowloon Peninsula, such as car tunnels or the subway, but the ferry continues to be wildly popular. Star Ferry transports approx. 70,000 passengers, which is 26 million people a year!
In Hong Kong, you can find a wide variety of gastronomic establishments, but the main ones are, nevertheless, restaurants of national cuisine. Local cuisine is characterized by a unique and sometimes unexpected combination of ingredients, which is what makes it so attractive in the eyes of gourmets. Rice is actively used in cooking, and vegetables and seafood occupy an honorable place in the diet of local residents.
Rice flour is used to make delicious noodles served with spicy sauces. It has become one of the most revered dishes among fans of oriental cuisine. No less popular are dumplings and pastries, which guests are offered to try in every restaurant. The method of preparing vegetable side dishes is very peculiar. They can not only be grilled and served fresh, but also pickled and salted in soy sauce.
As for meat dishes, on the menu you can often find game cooked in a spicy way, rather than steaks and chops familiar to Europeans. What is rarely used in national cuisine is dairy products. Even pastry dough, local chefs prefer to cook on the water, and it turns out just great. Green tea remains the favorite drink of the locals. National restaurants and tea houses can offer more than a hundred varieties of tea. It is customary to drink it without; travelers usually order pies with fruit filling or soy cakes for tea.
You can try the best dishes of national cuisine at the Causeway bay restaurant, which will delight guests not only with a rich selection of culinary masterpieces, but also with the original design of the hall. Lan Kwai Fong Restaurant serves international cuisine. In the evenings, interesting entertainment programs and concerts often take place. Fans of the exotic will like the Tsin Shai Tsui restaurant, whose menu consists exclusively of oriental delicacies.
Local residents are very sensitive to issues related to education. Man with prestigious profession here we respect everyone, and teachers are considered to be the most wise people. Indigenous people are prone to conservative views, they are very hard on any and revere the customs of their ancestors. Even the long-term influence of the West could not break the attitude of the indigenous people to their religion and culture. They took over from the Europeans all the best, while retaining spiritual values.
It is very important for city dwellers public opinion. Even people from poor families always arrange magnificent celebrations, and weddings here are completely similar to royal ones, so it is important for people to arouse the admiration of others. The people of Hong Kong are very superstitious, which is explained by the influence of old traditions and customs. They believe in fate, study numerology and believe that the culprits of troubles and misfortunes can be evil spirits. In every house you can certainly see religious attributes and talismans that are necessary to attract good luck. Many national amulets have become widespread in others, the most striking example is the "money" tree.
Throughout the year, Hong Kong hosts a huge number of interesting holidays, fairs and festivals. So, in February, the Theater Festival starts - the holiday is full of bright ones that take place literally every day. Art lovers will love the Arts Festival, which also takes place in February. Young artists present their works at the festival. As a rule, it ends, where everyone can purchase their favorite paintings. Gourmets should visit the Gastronomic Festival, which usually takes place in March. There are more unusual celebrations in Hong Kong, whose names speak for themselves: the Water Splashing Festival, the Lantern Festival and the enchanting Dragon Boat Festival are also popular with tourists.
A modern and crowded metropolis, Hong Kong never ceases to amaze its guests with a variety of historical sights and cultural institutions. A walk around the Admiralty area, where you can see not only luxurious modern buildings but also to visit attractive restaurants and shopping centers.
Among the natural attractions, Hong Kong Park deserves attention, on the territory of which, in addition to exotic plants and flowers, you can see beautiful fountains and pools. Here is the famous Museum of Teaware, as well as an amphitheater. Man Monastery is located in Hong Kong's historic quarter. This prominent religious landmark was built in honor of the ancient gods of literature.
A very interesting excursion to the Ocean Garden, during which you can not only see the rarest inhabitants of the deep sea, but also relax with the whole family in a beautiful water park. From an architectural point of view, the old St. John`s Cathedral, the construction of which was completed in 1849, is interesting. The church was built in colonial times and is one of the most striking European architectural monuments. There is also an old botanical garden in Hong Kong, which was founded more than 150 years ago. About 300 species of birds, as well as rare plant species, live on its territory.
A striking monument of modern architecture is the Peak Tower - a beautiful skyscraper that houses a variety of shops, restaurants and bars. On the roof of the building there is a large observation deck, which offers an unforgettable view of the city and its surroundings. Another way to get a bird's eye view of the city is to climb Victoria Peak, which is the highest point in Hong Kong. The height of the peak is 552 meters; a funicular railway delivers tourists to the top. At the top, in addition to several viewing platforms, there are cozy restaurants with outdoor terraces and souvenir shops.
In 2005 there was Grand opening Hong Kong Disneyland amusement park, since then it has become a favorite place family vacation not only visitors, but also local residents. A huge selection of rides, colorful performances and characters from favorite fairy tales - each visitor to the park will have an unforgettable journey into the world of fairy tales and fantasies. Tram rides are very popular with tourists, during which you can appreciate the greatness of historical and modern monuments architecture and natural attractions. Hong Kong is a real Mecca for shopping lovers. There are both large-scale shopping malls and colorful open-air markets, some of which even work at night. Be sure to visit the Goldfish Market and the Flower Market.
The prestigious Dragon-I club offers its guests an excellent dance floor, a beautiful outdoor terrace with a bar, an indoor bar with a rich selection of drinks and snacks, as well as several lounges for VIP guests. The Volar club is decorated in a futuristic style. Electronic music lovers will like to relax here. The club often hosts themed parties, so here you can hear music from other progressive directions. The hallmark of the prestigious M1NT nightclub has become a huge crystal chandelier, which visitors can see in the lobby. The decoration of the hall also deserves the highest praise. There are beautiful soft sofas, and elegant tables, and a colorful dance floor, and a large aquarium with sharks, shimmering with all the colors of the rainbow.
1. Most of the locals are fluent in English, so it is quite easy for vacationers to find a “common language” with the local population.
2. It is not customary to leave a tip in cafes and restaurants, but if you wish, you can reward the waiter with an amount of 5-10% of the bill. In taxis, it is customary to round the bill to the nearest dollar.
3. Most of major shopping centers and shops (map of shopping areas) is open seven days a week, but banks and other government agencies may be closed on Saturday and Sunday.
4. When visiting some religious sites, photography and video filming is prohibited. Also travelers are not allowed to shoot strategically important objects: station, airport, bridge and other special buildings.
5. It is best for tourists to keep an identity card with them at all times, an alternative to a passport can be a driver's license. Checks are often carried out on the streets of the city, so the city authorities are fighting illegal immigrants.
6. It is forbidden to smoke in the city in crowded places, near large government and cultural institutions. At the same time, there are specially designated smoking areas next to all major shopping malls, restaurants and bars.
7. Hong Kong has a well-developed public transport system, you can get to all the sights of interest by bus and subway (map of subway stations). To make traveling even easier, you can purchase a city map showing bus routes.
8. One of the most popular souvenirs that travelers bring back from a trip is tea. In local shops, expensive varieties of tea are recommended to be purchased only by those who are really well versed in the types of drink.
Take a taxi, and for 2-3 USD drive to zero mile - the building of the Hong Kong government (Legco Building), built in the colonial style. Why exactly in the Colonial? Because until recently, Hong Kong was a colony of Great Britain, and in 1912 this building was built by the British. The Hong Kong Government House is a kind of historical monument, reminiscent of the city's colonial past.
From here you can walk to the tallest building on the island - the second tower of the International Financial Center (IFC 2) - an international commercial complex. Its height is 412.8 meters, 88 floors. And here it was not without surprising moments: the 14th and 24th floors are not here, because in the local dialect these numbers are close in pronunciation to the phrases “as if dead” and “it’s easy to die.” The number 8, on the contrary, promises happiness. The upper floors of the building are much higher than the already mentioned Victoria Peak. The skyscraper is located along the coastline of Hong Kong.
Here you can take the Star Ferry, which will take you to the mainland of Hong Kong - Kowloon. Turning right after exiting the ferry, you will find yourself on the world-famous Avenue of Stars - an analogue of the Hollywood Alley of the same name, opened by the Hong Kong Tourism Commission in 2003. Along the entire length of the alley, we can read the names of the most famous people from all over the world.
Symphony of Lights - not to be missed
From here, you will definitely pay attention to the Symphony of Lights laser show - the most exciting and famous laser show in the whole world. It takes place in the business center of the city, connecting the walls and roofs of twenty skyscrapers at the same time with bright beams. The show runs every day at 8 pm.
Most likely, here you will have to end your trip to Hong Kong: the day is coming to an end. But believe that such a day will be the most intense and memorable in your life: you have visited all the most Famous places cities. After all, few places can see so much beauty in 24 hours. This is what Hong Kong differs from many cities, even the most popular among tourists.
61. Skyscrapers of Hong Kong
Sources
Wikipedia - The Free Encyclopedia, WikiPedia
hong-kong.ru – Portal about Hong Kong
orangesmile.com – Orange Smile
countries.turistua.com – Best tour search
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Hong Kong (Hong Kong) is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. Hong Kong is located on the Kowloon Peninsula, washed by the South China Sea from the west, south and east, as well as on more than 260 islands. To the north, Hong Kong borders the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in the Chinese province of Guangdong.
Hong Kong is usually divided into three parts: Hong Kong Island itself, Kowloon and the New Territories.
Hong Kong Airport
Hong Kong International Airport Chek Lap Kok Airport or Hong Kong Guokchai Keichyeong International Airport
Hong Kong hotels 1 - 5 stars
Hong Kong weather
The climate of Hong Kong is subtropical, monsoonal. Cool and dry winter lasts from December to March. Spring and summer in Hong Kong are hot, humid and rainy, while autumn is warm, sunny and dry. Such a different climate at different times of the year is due to the different wind direction characteristic of each season. Tropical cyclones (typhoons) can pass through Hong Kong in summer and early autumn.
Hong Kong language
Official language: Chinese
English is widely used.
Currency of Hong Kong
International name: HKD
The Hong Kong dollar is equal to 100 cents. There are 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 HK$ banknotes in circulation in four different designs, as well as coins in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 cents.
There are no currency restrictions in Hong Kong, any currency is freely sold and purchased, although when buying with Hong Kong dollars, you can get a number of price advantages and discounts.
You can exchange currency at exchange offices in banks (usually the most favorable rate), the airport, large shops and most hotels. Credit cards and traveler's checks are accepted everywhere, the ATM network is very extensive.
Visa
Easy entry mode
Russian citizens do not need a visa to visit Hong Kong for a period not exceeding 14 days. The purpose of the trip must be tourism, transit, visiting friends or relatives, a short-term business visit, not related to making a profit in Hong Kong.
Customs restrictions
The import of foreign currency is not limited (the declaration is required). Duty-free imported up to 1 liter. alcoholic products, perfumes - no more than 60 ml. and toilet water no more than 250 ml. (packed), tobacco products - no more than 200 cigarettes, or 50 cigars, or 250 gr. tobacco.
It is forbidden to import weapons (including stun guns and gas cartridges), pornography, counterfeit products, drugs and poisons. Certain medications, antibiotics, combustibles and explosive substances and items are imported only with the appropriate permission local authorities. Valuable items (photo and video equipment, jewelry, etc.) must be indicated in the entry declaration; upon departure, the declaration is presented again. It is forbidden to export valuable items and works of art without a store receipt confirming the legality of the purchase.
Importation of animals
The importation of animals (even in the case of transit) is allowed only if there are relevant documents (valid for 90 days) from local border veterinary control services, as well as a veterinary certificate issued by the relevant veterinary services of the Russian Federation no earlier than 4 days before departure.
Mains voltage
Tips
Office Hours
Most banks are open from Monday to Friday from 9.00 to 16.00-17.00 with a lunch break from 13.00 to 14.00 and on Saturdays from 9.00 to 12.30-13.00.
Most shops are open from 10.00 to 20.00, large trading houses often continue to work until 21.00-22.00. Many shops are open on weekends as well.
Photo and video shooting
Photography in temples and museums is either prohibited or charged extra. For the use of video cameras, the fee is much higher or it is not allowed to shoot at all. Photographing strategic objects (airport, train station, dam, bridge, etc.) is prohibited.
Restrictions
Since July 1, 2009, Hong Kong has introduced a ban on smoking in public places, including restaurants, bars and even public toilets. In addition, restrictions on smoking on the streets will be tightened - there are already entire “tobacco-free areas” on the island.
Security
In Hong Kong, you must always carry identification (passport, driver's license, etc.) - immigration authorities often arrange document checks to detain illegal workers and immigrants with expired visas.
Country code: +852
First level geographic domain name:.hk
Emergency Phones
Police, Ambulance, fire and emergency services - 999.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region- a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China, one of the leading financial centers in Asia and the world.
Hong Kong (Xianggang) is located on the Kowloon Peninsula, washed by the South China Sea from the west, south and east, as well as on more than 260 islands, the largest of which are Hong Kong (the location of the supreme authorities and the financial center of the territory), Lantau and Lamma. To the north, Hong Kong borders the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in the Chinese province of Guangdong. Hong Kong is usually divided into three parts: Hong Kong Island itself, Kowloon and the New Territories. Hong Kong is part of the Pearl River Delta region, located on the left bank of its mouth.
In 1842, Hong Kong was captured by Great Britain and remained its colony until 1997, when the Chinese People's Republic gained sovereignty over the territory. According to the joint Chinese-British declaration and the Basic Law of Hong Kong, the territory is granted broad autonomy until 2047, that is, within 50 years after the transfer of sovereignty. As part of the course "One country - two systems" during this period, the Central people's government The PRC takes over the territory's defense and foreign policy issues, while Hong Kong retains control over legislation, police forces, monetary system, duties and immigration policy, and retains representation in international organizations and events.
Geography
Hong Kong consists of Hong Kong Island, Lantau Island, the Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and about 260 small islands. The New Territories adjoin the Kowloon Peninsula from the north, and beyond their northern border by the Shenzhen River.
In total, Hong Kong includes 262 islands in the South China Sea, the largest of which is Lantau Island. The second largest and the first in terms of population is Hong Kong Island.
The name "Hong Kong" (yue yer. 香港, tran. hyungkon) literally means "fragrant harbour" and comes from the name of a locality in the present-day district of Aberdeen on Hong Kong Island. It used to sell fragrant wood products and incense. The narrow strip of water separating Hong Kong and the Kowloon Peninsula is called Victoria Bay. It is one of the deepest natural seaports in the world.
Despite the reputation of Hong Kong as a highly urbanized area, the Hong Kong authorities pay great attention to ecology and landscaping. Much of Hong Kong is still undeveloped, as it is dominated by hills and steep mountains. Less than 25% of Hong Kong's 1,104 km2 has been developed. The rest of the territory is covered with greenery, of which about 40% are declared recreation areas and nature reserves. Most of the territory's urban development is located on the Kowloon Peninsula and the northern coast of Hong Kong Island, as well as in settlements dispersed throughout the New Territories.
With its long, irregular, winding coastline, Hong Kong has many bays, rivers, and beaches. Despite the abundance of greenery and water in Hong Kong, the city's environmental problems are of increasing concern, and the city ranks one of the last places in terms of air quality. About 80% of Hong Kong's smog comes from other areas of the Pearl River Delta, that is, from mainland China.
Hong Kong is located 60 km east of Macau, on the opposite bank of the mouth of the Pearl River. To the north, it borders the city of Shenzhen in Guangdong Province. highest point Hong Kong - Mount Taimoshan in the New Territories, its height is 958 m. There are also lowlands in Hong Kong, they are located in the northwestern part of the New Territories.
Climate
The climate of Hong Kong is tropical, monsoonal. Cool and dry winter lasts from December to March. Spring and summer in Hong Kong are hot, humid and rainy, while autumn is warm, sunny and dry. Such a different climate at different times of the year is due to the different wind direction characteristic of each season. Tropical cyclones (typhoons) can pass through Hong Kong in summer and early autumn. Geologically, the land beneath Hong Kong has been stable for millions of years, but landslides can occur after heavy rains. The flora and fauna of Hong Kong have undergone major changes due to climate change, sea level and human influence.
Hong Kong Observatory - government agency, which is entrusted with the work of compiling meteorological forecasts, warnings of weather disasters and geophysical exploration of the territory of Hong Kong.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Hong Kong is 38°C and the lowest is -4°C. At the same time, the highest and lowest temperatures recorded by the Hong Kong Observatory are respectively 36.1°C on August 19, 1900 and August 18, 1990, and 0.0°C on January 18, 1893. The average temperature of the coldest month, January, is 16.1°C, while the average temperature of the hottest month, July, is 28.7°C.
Hong Kong is located just south of the Tropic of Cancer, being close in latitude to such cities as Havana, Mecca, Calcutta. In winter, the city is dominated by a strong dry north wind, which brings clear and cool weather, and in summer a warm, humid southwest wind blows. A tropical forest can grow in such a climate.
Population
During the 1990s, Hong Kong's population began to grow rapidly. As of the end of 2010, it is over 7 million people. About 95% of Hong Kong residents are ethnic Chinese, most of whom are Cantonese, as well as such Chinese ethnic groups as the Hakka and Chaozhou people. Cantonese, a variety of Chinese spoken in the neighboring Chinese province of Guangdong, is the main lingua franca in Hong Kong. The official languages of the territory are Chinese (without specifying a specific variety) and English. According to the 1996 census, 3.1% of Hong Kong residents named English as the language of everyday communication, 34.9% named English as a second language. Bilingual signs in Chinese and English are found throughout Hong Kong. After the transfer of sovereignty in 1997, the influx of immigrants from mainland China increased. The use of Putonghua, the official language of mainland China, has also increased. Integration with the mainland economy has led to the need for people who can speak Mandarin.
The remaining 5% are non-Chinese ethnic groups, which, despite their small numbers, form a very visible group. The South Asian population of Hong Kong consists of Indians, Pakistanis and a small number of Nepalese. The Vietnamese who fled the war became permanent residents of Hong Kong. About 140,000 Filipinos work as domestic helpers in Hong Kong. There are also domestic helpers from Indonesia, and their number is constantly growing. Europeans, Americans, Australians, Canadians, Japanese and Koreans also work in the commercial and financial sector in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated countries (dependencies) in the world, with a population density of over 6,200 people per km². The average number of births per woman is 0.95. This is one of the lowest rates in the world, far below 2.1, the level required to maintain a constant population. Despite this, Hong Kong's population continues to grow thanks to an influx of 45,000 immigrants from mainland China every year. Average life expectancy in Hong Kong in 2006 was 81.6 years, the fifth highest in the world. Also in the Hong Kong region is the most populous island in the world - Ap Lei Chau.
The population of Hong Kong is mainly concentrated in the extremely densely populated center of the territory, consisting of Kowloon and the northern part of Hong Kong Island. The population density in other parts of the territory is much less. Several million residents live unevenly in the New Territories, the south of Hong Kong Island and Lantau Island. An increasing number of Hong Kongers choose to live in mainland Shenzhen, where prices are much lower, and commute to Hong Kong for work.
Transport
Hong Kong has a complex highly developed transport system including public and private transport. More than 80% of travel in Hong Kong is made by public transport.
The public transport system, in addition to the MTR rail transport system, which combines subway, commuter and intracity electric trains (KCR), includes bus service, ferry service between the island and the mainland, as well as with adjacent islands, a tram, a funicular connecting the city center with the peak Victoria. In addition, an escalator lift is used as transport, which is a chain of several escalators and travelators that connects the Central and Western and Mid-Levels areas.
