Hong Kong - Asia’s World City
Hong Kong offers a completely different experience from any other cities in China. Hong Kong is small, however dynamic and aggressive. It is Asia’s World City. Hong Kong is a world-class financial, trade, and business center. It is also China’s first Special Administrative Region (SAR). Here you you’ll witness how ‘one country, two systems’ works. It became SAR of the People's Republic of China on July 1, 1997, after a century and a half under British administration and under the constitution the existing economic, legal, and social systems will be maintained for 50 years. Hong Kong is divided into four sections: Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, New Territories, and Outlying Islands.
Chengde is considered to be one of the top ten tourist spots in the People’s Republic of China. From 1703 Emperor Kangxi used the town as a retreat from the blazing heat of summer in Beijing. Under the reign of Kangxi, and the sons that succeeded him, this previously small town was transformed with the addition of splendid gardens and unique palaces. Though the city let this remarkable heritage fall into disrepair for some time, recent refurbishments have returned a lot of the splendor to the parks and temples. According to Kangxi’s original plans, a lot of the structures feature Tibetan and Mongolian craft work; designed to comfort visiting dignitaries. Around Chengde there is an abundance of enchanting countryside and jaw-dropping views. Many tourists choose to explore the hilly periphery of the city by bike, stopping to visit the numerous temples en-route. As suggested by its original purpose, Chengde is comparatively cool in the summer, and the ideal spot for a break from the steamy metropolis of Beijing.
World’s Most Beautify Skyline
Though I live in Hong Kong, I am completely impressed by its beautiful skyline. It is a showcase of world-famous designers and architects. Rarely in the world can you find so many state-of-the-art buildings.
World’s Most Beautiful Night View
Seriously, Hong Kong night view must be the most beautiful in the world. I am going to suggest a number of places for you to admire the world-famous Hong Kong night view.
Hong Kong nightlife is extremely diversified and colourful. See my suggestions of how to spend a night in Hong Kong.
Peak of Hong Kong
This is for sure the number one travel destination in Hong Kong. Anyone visiting Hong Kong must come here. The Victoria Peak is the best place to have a panoramic view of the beautiful city of Hong Kong, day and night. On your way there, the Peak Tram experience is one you won’t find elsewhere in the world.
Buy Anything You Can
You can treat Hong Kong travel as a shopping tour. We are crowned Shoppers’ Paradise. It is a completely tax free city. From luxury shopping to budget shopping, Hong Kong is a place where you can buy almost anything.
You can find the world’s trendiest and hottest items here at unbeatable prices. You might consider buying a big new suitcase before starting your shopping tour.
World Class Shopping Malls
The beautiful shopping malls in Hong Kong contribute a unique experience to your Hong Kong travel. You might not expect so many world-class shopping malls in such a compact city. Even if you compare Hong Kong with London, Paris, New York or Tokyo, Hong Kong is still very competitive. I strongly recommend the super luxurious IFC Mall. Do make a trip to check it out, even if you don’t plan to buy.
Gourmet’s Paradise
Hong Kong travel offers incredible dining experience. It is the Culinary Capital of Asia. Hong Kong is a city where you can eat any time in the day. In shopping districts like Tsimshatsui, Mongkok and Causeway Bay, there are restaurants opening round the clock.
Make sure to discover the beauty of Cantonese Cuisine in Hong Kong. You’ll also love the incredible flavours from throughout Asia and marvelous western cuisine. Dining in Hong Kong will also let you experience the highest level of customer services on the land of China.
Ocean Park
If you have kids in your group, Ocean Park is an ideal place for a day of outing. Do include this world’s 7th most popular amusement park in your Hong Kong travel itinerary. The 30-year old Ocean Park even outperforms the newly opened Disneyland in Hong Kong. Children can make fun in Hong Kong while learning at the Ocean Park. Get to know marine animals and play exciting games.
Historical Review
Hong Kong history is tightly bond with its SAR status of today. Before starting your Hong Kong travel, let me brief you on the history of Hong Kong.
This vibrant, dynamic Asia’s World City was once a fishing village. Opium War in the mid 19th Century changed its fate.
Hong Kong Island was ceded to Britain under the Treaty of Nanking in 1842. Kowloon Peninsula and New Territories subsequently went into the hands of British.
Britain’s colonial rule over Hong Kong lasted 155 years. On July 1, 1997, China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. Read more.
Explore Hong Kong on your own
Hong Kong is small. Its land area is just over 1,100 square kilometers, plus some 200 outlying islands.
World-famous Victoria Harbour separates Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula. Hence ferry is an important mean of transportation.
Since we are small and have a highly developed and well planned transportation network, there is no need for you to go on any package tour, unless you really want to.
The best way to explore Hong Kong is on your own. Do include a ride on Star Ferry, Tram and Peak Tram in your Hong Kong travel. These are not only transportation vehicles, but the best ways to experience Hong Kong.
China travel tips:
Hong Kong Travel
1. Hong Kong travel is highly desired by mainland Chinese compatriots. Therefore Hong Kong is full of visitors from the mainland over golden weeks, namely Chinese New Year (mid January to early February), Labour Day (May 1) and National Day (October 1). Avoid these days while planning your visit to Hong Kong, unless you want to share the festival atmosphere of Chinese New Year.
2. Hong Kong law requires anyone of 15 or older carry their ID anywhere. Please have your passport with you all the time.
3. Hong Kong has a population of 6.8 million however land area is just over 1,100 square kilometers. Please be prepared to put up with crowds.
