Tourism is well developed in Hong Kong – one of the most important cities in Asia. Tourists from all over the world come to the city with pleasure to enjoy the architecture of the city, a variety of themed entertainment, and also admire the pearl of the city – Victoria Harbor. We have selected for you the 10 most popular attractions in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong’s location in the Pearl River Delta and the South China Sea southeast of the Chinese coast has made it one of the world’s most developed and cosmopolitan cities.
Hong Kong as we know it today was formed when China’s Qing Dynasty was defeated in the First Opium War in 1842 and Hong Kong Island was ceded to Britain. For 60 years, Kowloon, the New Lands and the 235 Outlying Islands were also under British rule. However, the history of those 1,100 square kilometers that modern Hong Kong occupies began long before the events associated with the Qing dynasty – more than a thousand years ago. If you are interested in colorful urban heritage, you will discover stories of powerful clans, pirates and European merchants.
From its early years as a British colony, Hong Kong served as a center for international trade. During the turbulent years of the early 20th century, the urban population greatly increased due to immigrants, mostly from China. The influx of a large number of immigrants contributed to the formation of Hong Kong as one of the important manufacturing centers. This event also led to an influx of funds into the city. In more recent years, as the economy of mainland China has experienced explosive growth, Hong Kong has been transformed again – this time into the gateway to the world’s largest market.
Under the principle of “One country, two systems”, Hong Kong became a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China on July 1, 1997. This ensures a high level of autonomy, including the preservation of the capitalist economic system, an independent judiciary, rule of law, freedom of trade and freedom of speech.
Immersion in the city’s history will give you the most vivid impressions. However, despite all the improvements and changes, the spirit of Hong Kong has never changed. The same energy and dynamism that transformed a group of isolated fishing villages into a center of global international trade is now driving the metropolis into the 21st century. Feel that spirit as you discover Hong Kong’s rich urban culture and heritage.
Seasons
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Only typhoons can be the reason that will disrupt your plans during your stay in Hong Kong.
The rainy season starts in May and ends in November. A message about an approaching typhoon is broadcast on radio and television. There are various warning signals developed by the Hong Kong Observatory, but when signal number 8 is transmitted, most offices and shops close their doors, and flights can be canceled. There is a separate warning system for heavy rains.
You can find detailed information about the current weather on the website of the Hong Kong Observatory. While in Hong Kong, you can also dial 1878 200 by pressing ‘3’ to select English to listen to the current weather report.
different seasons
Spring (March to May)
Temperatures and humidity rise. It can be chilly in the evening. Average temperature: 17oC – 26oC
Summer (June to August)
Summers are hot, humid and sunny with occasional rain and thunderstorms. Temperatures can exceed 31oC, but may feel even hotter due to high levels of humidity. Average temperature: 26oC – 31oC
Autumn (September to November)
Light breeze from the sea, lots of sun and comfortable temperature. Autumn is considered the best time of the year to visit Hong Kong. Average temperature: 19oC – 28oC
Winter (December to February)
Cool, dry and cloudy with occasional cold fronts. Temperatures in the city can drop below 10oC. Average temperature: 12oC – 20oC
