What do you see when you think of Hong Kong? A modern, glittering skyline packed with towering skyscrapers? Flashing signs decorating the city streets? A beautiful harbor? Well, you’d be right – but this “special administrative region” of China, situated on the south coast, has much more to offer than that. Formerly a British colony, Hong Kong now contains a fascinating blend of cultures, and is sometimes said to be where “East meets West”. The territory also contains numerous islands, and much of the land is hilly and recognized as nature reserves. If you study there during the summer you could enjoy hot and humid weather, although the lowest temperature in winter ever to be recorded was
just 0 °C.
While you might automatically think of crowded streets, the territory of Hong Kong is also home to many beautiful, sandy beaches – perfect for that lovely summer weather. The beaches often lie in bays and are sheltered by mountains, making them calm. Some bays and beach areas, such as Sai Kung Beach, provide the perfect location for water sports and leisurely strolls.
CHINESE LANGUAGE PROGRAMS FOR ADULTS
The city of Hong Kong has long been synonymous with skyscrapers, international finance and densely crowded streets. While all these things may be found there, Hong Kong is also a city of diversity, a history of British colonialism, beautiful oases of nature, mountains and beaches. Much of Hong Kong’s prominence comes from being a capitalist economy with a strong focus on free trade, a policy which has extended even as it has been returned to China from Britain. As a result, Hong Kong is one of the most international cities in which to learn Chinese and offers its own unique culture and heritage to appreciate.