Hong Kong.doc

1.Hong Kong offers a host of memorable tourist attractions within its compact area, with The Peak, Victoria Harbour and the Giant Buddha among the most awe-inspiring.Youll be amazed by the diverse contrasts and close proximity of stunning cityscapes and soaring mountains, heritage sites and extensive green countryside.HighlightsThe PeakHong Kongs most popular attraction, The Peak offers spectacular views over the city, harbour and mountains beyond. For an extra buzz, take the Peak Tram. Victoria HarbourTake the iconic Star Ferry to enjoy stunning views around the harbour, and dont miss the nightly A Symphony of Lights show featuring harbour-front buildings. Giant BuddhaLantau Island features an outdoor seated Giant bronze Buddha, along with the Po Lin Monastery and Ngong Ping Piazza, Tai O village on stilts, Ngong Ping 360 and Hong Kong Disneyland. Outlying IslandsHong Kongs outlying islands are a world of rich history and culture, breathtaking natural beauty and charming village life. In this guide, you can discover these hidden gems with insights from local islanders. Happy exploring!The Hong Kong Global Geopark of ChinaMillions of years old and covering eight scenic areas in the East and Northeast New Territories, the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China is a marvel of nature.Hong Kong is blessed with popular attractions and sightseeing opportunities throughout the territory. Youll find endless things to see and do on Hong Kong Island and in Kowloon and the New Territories. Or take a ferry and explore the Outlying Islands. Choose any location listed and you wont be disappointed2.Culture and heritage are what sets Hong Kong apart from the rest of Asia indeed the world. With over 100 years of colonial history and a largely Chinese population, Hong Kong is a unique fusion of Western and Eastern cultures where the old and the new live side by side. Its incense-filled temples, colonial buildings and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, along with its ancient traditions and lively festivals, have made Hong Kong a living culture experience.Cultural Kaleidoscope programmeThis is an exceptional opportunity to experience Hong Kongs extraordinary traditions and culture through a series of programmes.Discover Hong Kong By RailTake a train to explore some of the most fascinating areas of Kowloon and the New Territories.Chinas 1911 RevolutionExplore places in Hong Kong related to the Chinas 1911 Revolution that leads to the birth of modern China.TemplesHong Kong has many ancient Chinese temples spread throughout the territory. They serve followers of Buddhism and Taoism as well as a number of deities. There are also a number of monasteries and nunneries, some in very remote areas. Chi Lin Nunnery / Nan Lian Garden Sha Tin Che Kung Temple Miu Fat Buddhist Monastery Hung Shing Temple at Kau Sai Chau, Sai Kung Yuen Yuen Institute Che Kung Temple at Ho Chung Lo Pan TempleDeclared MonumentsMany fascinating Chinese and colonial heritage sites still exist in Hong Kong, reflecting more than 5,000 years of Chinese and more than 100 years of British colonial heritage. The following is a list of important heritage sites that are easily accessible. Hong Kong Island Kowloon New Territories Outlying IslandsHong Kongs Intangible Cultural HeritageFour popular local festivals have recently been included in Chinas third national list of intangible cultural heritage. The festivals are: Cheung Chau Jiao Festival Tai O Dragon Boat Water Parade Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Yu Lan Ghost Festival of the Hong Kong Chiu Chow CommunityAll of these four festivals fall within the category of social practices, rituals and festive events which comply with the UNESCO Convention for the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage.3.Hong Kong has a stunning array of glass, steel and marble-clad edifices that are monuments to modern architecture and some of the worlds top architects. But in this city of contrasts youll also find gems of colonial era architecture, some dating back more than 150 years.The Inside Guide to Hikes and Walks in Hong KongA mere hiking boot throw from the teeming downtown is some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the region, and you dont need legs of iron to enjoy most of Hong