Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China is one of the two special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China (the other is Macau). Hong Kong is located at the eastern side of the Pearl River Delta on the southeastern coast of China, facing the South China
Sea to the south and bordering the Guangdong Province to the
north. It has one of the world's most liberal economies and is a
major international centre of finance and trade.
Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong was handed over to the
PRC in 1997. As a special administrative region, Hong Kong is
guaranteed by the Basic Law to have a relatively high degree of
autonomy for at least 50 years under the policy known as "One
Country, Two Systems.” Under this policy, Hong Kong retains its
own legal system, currency, customs policy and immigration laws. Hong Kong also maintains its own delegation in most international organizations, such as the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, and international sport events, such as the Olympic Games, under the designation "Hong Kong, China". Finally, travellers will note that Hong Kong still maintains British road rules, with traffic continuing to drive on the left. China’s responsibilities for Hong Kong are limited to defense and the diplomatic relation.
Victoria Peak
In 1868, the British governor Sir Richard MacDonnell built his
summerhouse on the peak. As wealthy European merchants
moved to Hong Kong, this became an exclusive residential area
for the wealthy. In 1881, Alexander Findlay Smith, built a tram
route to the peak to increase business for his hotel. Soon visitors
from all over the country were able to enjoy these beautiful
views of Hong Kong.
VictoriaPeak stands at an altitude of 552 metres, making it the
highest mountain on the island and also the top tourist attraction in Hong Kong. On the peak lies the PeakTower, a great place to dine and shop for souvenirs. Inside the tower, China travellers can visit Madame Tussauds, a wax museum with figures of over 100 famous celebrities; the Viewing Terrace, with a 360-degree view of Hong Kong; and a Sky Gallery that showcases brilliant artworks.
Repulse Bay
Repulse Bay was used as a base for pirates, and much feared
by local merchant ships. In 1841, the British Royal Navy fleet
was brought in and stationed here to “repulse” pirate activity;
hence the bay’s name. Repulse Bay became a popular
destination for China tourists and locals when the bay was
turned into a beach in 1910. At the entrance to the bay, visitors
will note large statues of the goddesses Kwun Yum and Tin Hau,
the protectors of fishermen.
Stanley Market
Located in the town of Stanley at the southern part of Hong Kong
Island, Stanley Market is a popular shopping destination for tourists.
Here, travellers can find traditional Chinese artwork and bargain
souvenirs. Stanley Market is also home to many Cantonese
restaurants, which serve up traditional delicacies.
Aberdeen Fishing Village
This harbour is home to many residents and fishing boats. For
travellers looking for quality seafood, a visit to the Aberdeen
Fishing Village is a must in a Hong Kong tour packages.
Hong Kong Disneyland
The fifth Disneyland in the world opened to visitors on September
12, 2005. This legendary fairyland consists of four themed areas:
Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventure land and Tomorrow
land. This is an excellent destination to bring children.
Ngong Ping 360
The Ngong Ping 360 is a scenic cable car between Tung Chung
Town Centre and Ngong Ping, on LantauIsland. The Skyrail on the
Ngong Ping 360 gives visitors a panoramic view of Hong Kong
while it glides by the South China Sea and the North Lantau
Country Park. The ride lasts about 20-25 minutes. The Skyrail also
passes by the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, which is the world's largest,
seated, outdoor, bronze Buddha statue. The Ngong Ping 360
adventure also includes Ngong Ping Village, which contains four
main attractions: Walking with Buddha; Monkey’s Tale Theatre; and the Ngong Ping Tea House. Dining and shopping are also available at the village.