If you weren't aware, Hong Kong is actually a special
administrative region of the People's Republic of China. The
small piece of land is home to around 7 million people, making
it one of the most densely populated places on the planet. If
you don't like crowds, a trip to Hong Kong might not be for you.
On the other hand, if you don't mind mixing with other people,
the striking skyline of Hong Kong is something that shouldn't be
missed. Located in Southern China on the coast, Hong Kong has a
deep harbor that has made it a place for ships and commerce for
many years.
The history of Hong Kong is perhaps complicated, but that hasn't
stopped it from becoming one of the most visited destinations in
Asia. This may be due to the fact that Hong Kong's government is
run differently than on mainland China, but that shouldn't
concern you. What you should concentrate on is the fact that
there's so much to do in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Festivals and Holidays
Dragon Boat Festival - This
ancient festival honors Qu Yuan, who drowned himself to
protest a corrupt government. While it happened over 2,000
years ago, the event is still celebrated today, with many
teams entering a boat race that has special meaning. The event
takes place on the fifth day of the fifth month according to
the lunar calendar
Chinese New Year - Because
China operates on a much older (and different) calendar
system, their new year is different than that in the West. For
example, 2010 is Year 4707 in the Chinese Calendar. While the
new year is on a different day than in the West, that doesn't
mean the people of Hong Kong don't know how to celebrate the
new year the right way. There's nothing like seeing the Hong
Kong skyline lit up with fireworks during Chinese New Year
celebrations.
Hong Kong Special
Administrative Region Establishment Day - This is a long name,
but it's a big celebration every year as Hong Kong reflects on
gaining independence from British rule and being put under
control of China. If you want to see Hong Kong while it's a
city-wide party, July 1 is a good date to go.
Bun Festival - This old
festival was held to chase away ghosts. It was said to be
originated on the island that was once home of the infamous
South China Sea pirates. While there are disagreements as to
why the festival was originally started, the parade and
festivities are something to see. The parade ends up at the
Pak Tai Temple on Cheung Chau island. There's more to the
festival, but we want to leave some of it a mystery for you!
These are just a small sample of the many events and
festivals that take place in Hong Kong. With a little digging,
you're sure to find many more that will help you decide when you
should travel to Hong Kong. The seven million people of Hong
Kong live in roughly 426 square miles, so there's not a lot of
different physical locations to see, but that doesn't mean a
trip to Hong Kong isn't going to be the adventure of a lifetime.
Facts About Hong Kong
Hong Kong's official name
is - Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
Hong Kong translates as
"Fragrant Harbor"
At the end of the Opium War
of 1842, the British took control of Hong Kong, not ceding
control until July 1, 1997.
The official languages in
Hong Kong are Cantonese and English.
If you've ever wondered what the Hong Kong nightlife is like,
now's the time to travel there and experience it for yourself.
Since breaking free from British rule and being allowed a
different government by China, Hong Kong has been able to
flourish over the last decade. Today, it's a destination for
smart and savvy travelers from all over the world. If you're a
fan of big city life, you're going to want to visit Hong Kong at
least once. It's easier than ever to experience the high-tech
Asian life in a place that sometimes seems like it's from the
past and the future at the same time.
