Hong Kong Port

Hong Kong in detail

Hong Kong, on the South China Sea, with China to the north, comprises the island of Hong Kong, the Kowloon Peninsula, Stonecutter and Lantau Islands and the New Territories - in all 415 sq miles (1076 sqkm).

From 1949 until 1962, an influx of refugees from China settled in Hong Kong, and today it is home to a population of 6 million. Its enormous harbour, vast industrialization and free port status make it a major Asian crossroad, and perhaps the best place to shop in the world. But for the visitor shopping is only one of many highlights, since there is much more to do and see in this picturesque, bustling metropolis.

Take a boat tour of Victoria Harbour or the Tram up Victoria Peak to see a spectacular 360-degree view of the island on a clear day. In the fishing harbour of Aberdeen, board one of Hong Kong's fabled sampan boats for a cruise through the bustling harbour, site of Hong Kong's legendary seafood restaurants and the homes of the rich and famous in Repulse Bay. In the New Territories you can visit the temples of the Yuen Yuen Insitute or the Fanling walled village. In Kowloon see the Chi Lin Nunnery, Nan Lian Garden and bustling Nathan Road. Lantau Island offers the Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping Village and cable car.

You can also visit the outlying islands of Cheung Chau, Stanley and Lamma islandsIn 1842, Hong Kong became a British Crown colony when it was acquired from China during the Opium Wars. In 1984, Britain and China signed an agreement stating that Hong Kong would return to China, but that it would maintain its capitalist system for 50 years. This transfer took place during the night of June 30th, 1997 under great pomp and ceremony and torrential rain. Hong Kong did establish democratic reforms, despite opposition from the Chinese and continues to be one of the world's most vibrant economies.