Hong Kong, a metropolis like no other in the world has long been the primary gateway to China
Located on the southeast coast of China, Hong Kong is about 1,000 sq km & growing via the reclamation of land. Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated territories in the world with approx. 6,250 sq km.
Hong Kong is made up of the Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Pennisula & the New Territories. Hong Kong Island being the smallest of the three but where the central business district is located with Victoria Harbor separating Hong Kong Island & Kowloon.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is one of two (along with Macau) special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China.
Hong Kong was a British colonial territory from 1842 to 1997 when the United Kingdom transfered sovereignty back to China. This was done with the agreement that while the central Chinese government would be responsible for defense & foreign affairs, Hong Kong would maintain control over its own domestic affairs including the legal & monetary system, immigration & customs, police force & representation in international organisations.
Hong Kong offers a blend of refinement & tradition in a modern city with a fabled past. Whether your taste is for elegant fabrics from luxury boutiques, funky clothes & accessories from the city's markets, electronic gadgets from the modern malls, or the famous jade & jewelry, Hong Kong remains the Far East's best shopping town.
Hong Kong also displays a wide variety of art to enjoy at the Art Museum or the Visual Arts Centre. If you enjoy learning about science than you should check out the Science or Space Museums of Hong Kong. There are also history museums where you can learn more about Hong Kong's fascinating past, exploring archaeology & natural history.
