Introduction   Hong Kong Information   Hong Kong Travel Tips   All About Shopping   Sightseeing and Attractions

Hong Kong Information

Cultural Kaleidoscope Programme

Hong Kong is a kaleidoscope of life, a sophisticated fusion of Eastern and Western cultures. Now you have the opportunity to experience the culture that truly makes Hong Kong a unique city. Our Meet the People itinerary, part of the Cultural Kaleidoscope programme, introduces you to English-speaking experts who will share their knowledge of Hong Kong's most fascinating traditions and let you experience first-hand what has taken them years to learn. With the exception of a nominal entrance fee to museums, the Meet the People itinerary is free of charge. More than that, the various sessions operate on a casual first-come, first-served basis (groups of ten or more must book in advance). You can pick and choose whatever you like from our easy-to-use timetable.

As part of the Cultural Kaleidoscope programme you can also visit six of Hong Kong best museums with a special, low-cost Museum Pass. For just HK$30 you can get a weekly pass to museums of art, heritage, history, space, science and coastal defence. These museums provide a quick and easy way to experience the cultural kaleidoscope that is Hong Kong.



Tai Chi Class
Tai chi, which is sometimes referred to as "Shadow Boxing", was developed many centuries ago. Its graceful movements help to balance the yin and the yang, doing as much for the mind and soul as for the body. To this day, the amazingly fluid motions of this traditional Chinese practice remain one of the favourite means of keeping fit in Hong Kong, especially among the older generation. Tai chi has also proved popular with visitors to Hong Kong who find it an excellent means of relaxation, both here, and once they have returned home. Ms Wu is one of Hong Kong's best-known masters, having practised tai chi for many years. She is also a qualified instructor of tai chi and tai chi swordplay. She performed before British Prime Minister Tony Blair during his visit to Hong Kong. Since 2000, Ms Wu and her husband, Mr Ng, have been helping to make the healthful, beguiling art of tai chi easily accessible to Hong Kong's visitors through this very popular class.
 

* Class organised by HKTB



Duk Ling Ride
Board an authentic Chinese junk and set sail into Hong Kong's scenic harbour for a 360 degree view of the city's impressive skyline. Originally owned and manned by Chinese fishermen, the Duk Ling is typical of the junks which used to crisscross Hong Kong's waterways 150 years ago - a reminder of the romance and intrigue that accompanied the early taipans and traders who settled here. After having sailed the waters and deep sea channels for more than 25 years, the vessel was lovingly restored in the 1980s to her original classic design. Today, the Duk Ling is the last authentic sailing junk in Hong Kong.
 

* Visitors are advised to register at least 45 minutes before the ride
** The ride may be rough. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions as appropriate
*** Ride organised by HKTB
**** The ride may be cancelled in March 2004 due to annual maintenance.



Guided Architecture Tour
Hong Kong offers a wealth of architectural influences and styles just waiting to be discovered. During this guided tour through Hong Kong's Central district, visitors will come to understand the evolution of the city through its buildings. Taking in such sights as the Central Police Station, the Fringe Club and the former French Mission building, architect hosts will point out the special characteristics that make each structure unique as well as discussing its relevant history. Thrusting skyward in dramatic contrast to these historical structures are Hong Kong's many glass and steel monuments to modernism. Designed by some of the world's most renowned architects, they are vital to understanding the evolution of building styles and the way Hong Kong's urban architecture has changed during the past century.
 

* Tour jointly organised by HKTB and Hong Kong Institute of Architects



Cantonese Opera Appreciation Tour
Cantonese opera is a highly respected art form that blends Chinese legend, music and drama into an exciting performance style, rich in symbolic meaning. This tour guides you through the Hong Kong Heritage Museum's Cantonese Opera Heritage Hall and its numerous displays, so that you can develop a better understanding of this unique art form. Visitors will be able to view the elaborate costumes worn by performers and attend a live operatic performance by a local troupe.
 

* Tour organised by HKTB
** Purchase the Museum Pass for access to 6 popular museums



Jade Grading and Appreciation Class
For centuries, jade has been highly prized throughout the Orient. In Chinese lore, jade was believed to have magical powers that protected the wearer from physical harm. For this reason, it was especially cherished by China's emperors. The gemstone continues to be popular today, and is often worn throughout a person's life. Jade is traditionally thought of as green, but it is also found in lavender, yellow, red, black and white colour. Quality varies dramatically and prices range from affordable to priceless. When choosing expensive jade, one should evaluate it carefully. Mr Henry Cheng has spent his life immersed in jewellery and gemmology. He is a Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong and Great Britain, and a lifetime member of the Gemmological Institute of America Alumni. With his years of experience in lecturing and teaching, Henry's Jade Appreciation Class will prove invaluable for visitors wishing to buy a piece of jade, or just interested in learning more about this beautiful gemstone and its fascinating history.
 

* Class organised by Mr Henry Cheng



Chinese Clothing
Traditional Chinese clothing expresses a unique culture and identity of its own. It has lent an air of mystery and exoticism to countless movies, and has influenced fashion designers around the world. Chinese-inspired clothing is now finding an enthusiastic following in both the East and the West. From the elegant Qipao (dress) for women, to the Changpao (long robe) for men, designers are adapting the classic silhouettes to suit today's lifestyles. One of the leaders in this fashion resurgence is Blanc de Chine whose designs merge Chinese culture and the zen philosophy with exquisite fabrics, beautiful tailoring and simple lines for a style that is comfortable, elegant and totally at ease. This talk focuses on the evolution of Chinese clothing in many forms, and how traditional wear has come to inspire Blanc de Chine's designs. The one-hour session will highlight 5 basic types of Chinese clothing including the Ao (or tunic) and the Zhongshan jacket popularised by Dr Sun Yat-sen. Visitors will also have a chance to view the latest Blanc de Chine collections and learn the special influences that have played a role in their creation.
 

* Class organised by Blanc de Chine



Chinese Tea Appreciation Class
A Chinese cup may look small, but it holds a great deal more than tea and water. As you listen to Ms Yu you might believe you are sipping the distillation of thousands of years of culture. While the subtle rituals of the Japanese tea ceremony are famous around the world, they actually derived from older Chinese traditions. Ms Yu has many years of experience in tea appreciation and has done tea demonstrations at hotels, schools and senior homes. She will introduce you to the many varieties of tea, its proper preparation and tea-drinking etiquette, Hong Kong style. Real tea appreciation encompasses an understanding of the important qualities of this revered leaf, as well as the contemplative thoughts that tea drinking has inspired throughout Chinese history. Join this introduction to tea and see for yourself why the ancient saying holds true: "Life is like tea. The longer it steeps, the richer it becomes".
 

* Class organised by Heritage Tea House



Pearl Grading and Appreciation Class
Pearls have long been a symbol of purity in China and are often referred to as one of the "eight jewels". Each is a tiny miracle of nature - individually and uniquely cultured. Fine pearls abound in Hong Kong and this introduction will help you to identify their most important qualities. Host Henry Cheng has spent his life immersed in jewellery and gemmology. After obtaining his university degree in Wellington, New Zealand, Mr Cheng undertook in-depth studies in gemmology and in 1987 was awarded the Rayner Diploma Prize which recognises the most-qualified gemmologist in the jewellery industry world-wide, a rare and special honour. He has also served as President of The Gemmological Association of Hong Kong. Mr Cheng's pearl evaluation and appreciation talk will unlock many of the mysteries surrounding pearls, as well as clarify any lingering doubts and misconceptions you might have. You will learn how to use a pearl grading chart and how to judge, with confidence, the quality and colour of these fascinating gems.
 

Pearl Grading & Appreciation Class
Venue:	Jade Suite II, 2/F Holiday Inn Golden Mile, 50 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon (MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit C1, hotel is across the road.)
Registration:	Tel: +852 2311 2532
Day/Time:	Tue; 2:30 pm-3:30 pm
Fee:	Free
Host:	Mr Henry Cheng
Capacity:	15 persons per class

* Class organised by Mr Henry Cheng



Kung Fu Corner
Kowloon Park is the perfect open air venue for the Sunday Kung Fu Corner, and an ideal place for the whole family to spend an afternoon together. This weekly event features a variety of traditional kung fu demonstrations and cultural performances such as ceremonial drumming and lion and dragon dances. Chinese martial arts, or kung fu, have been widely popularised in Hong Kong films and are attracting new interest from around the world. They include a wide range of styles and utilise many different weapons in their distinctive routines, making these demonstrations, by students and masters, both educational and enjoyable. Following the performances, members of the public are invited to try their skills, and the instructors are happy to lead visitors through typical kung fu movements. You'll find it to be an excellent form of exercise and a great introduction to the Chinese martial arts.
 

* Event organised by Leisure and Cultural Services Department



Feng Shui Class
Literally meaning "wind and water", feng shui is the ancient Chinese practice of positioning objects and buildings in harmony with nature to ensure good fortune. Often referred to as geomancy, its origins lay in an ancient Chinese respect for the environment, as well as a belief that cosmological influences strongly affect our lives. Mr Yu is an experienced practitioner of feng shui who has taught the discipline to thousands of students for more than twenty years. He has provided feng shui consultancy services to and conducted workshops for companies such as Sun Hung Kai Limited, Cathay Pacific Airways and Cable TV. Mr Yu will explain the traditional concepts surrounding the practice of feng shui, how it continues to play a significant role in Hong Kong life, and how a basic knowledge of feng shui can benefit all of us at work and at home.
 

* Class organised by Alex Yu Geomancy & Physiognomy



Antiques Appreciation Class
Porcelain pieces from the Ming and Qing dynasties are highly sought by collectors of Chinese art. Their intrinsic beauty, fine craftsmanship and spiralling values have fuelled a steady increase in demand. Whether you're just curious or a collector, this class organised by Chak's Company is a rare opportunity to increase your knowledge of Chinese ceramic history. William Chak's interest in antiques began at the early age of 16 when he was hired as an antiques apprentice. He opened his first shop in 1973 and his career as a dealer and expert appraiser spans more than three decades. William's eye for quality is well known and, as a collector himself, he is always on the lookout for unique pieces. This hands-on class, held in his shop on Hollywood Road, will introduce you to many different types of Chinese ceramic wares with an emphasis on pieces from the Sung, Ming and Qing dynasties.
 

* Class organised by Chak's Company Limited



"The Hong Kong Story" Exhibition Guided Tour
From the earliest life some 400 million years ago to Hong Kong's return to Chinese sovereignty in 1997, The Hong Kong Story exhibition at the Hong Kong Museum of History showcases the miracle that is modern day Hong Kong. Occupying 7,000 square metres, this multimedia extravaganza comprises 8 galleries located on two floors. Its exceptional displays are accompanied by special sound and lighting effects to take you back in time. Explore an ancient village temple or walk along a city street with the look and sounds of a hundred years ago. Step into a typical Hong Kong home from the 1930s and you'll feel as though tea is about to be served. Along the way, museum docents provide insights on Hong Kong's development for an amazing historical journey.
 

* Tour organised by Hong Kong Museum of History
** Purchase the Museum Pass for access to 6 popular museums



Heritage and Architecture Walks
With the help of a practical Heritage and Architecture Walks booklet and portable audio equipment you can explore Hong Kong's historic and modern landmarks at your own pace. There are three self-guided walks to choose from : The Hong Kong Island Walk takes in some of the best heritage buildings and newest architectural triumphs on the Island. Visit Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, the former Supreme Court or the state-of-the-art HSBC Main Building. Starting at the Star Ferry, The Kowloon Walk visits 14 significant structures in Hong Kong's tourist mecca Tsim Sha Tsui including the former Marine Police Headquarters, Clock Tower and the Rosary Church. The New Territories Walk guides you to scenic Chinese temples and the famous Lam Tsuen "wishing trees" where visitors can toss bundles of coloured paper into the branches for good luck.
 

* Walks organised by HKTB

Back to the Top 

  Information provided by Hong Kong Tourism Board.

Copyright © 2002 Orasia co.,ltd. (Asia-planet.net) All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission prohibited.