6 FUN FACTS ABOUT HONG KONG

Hong Kong is known to be a city that radiates with energy because of its vibrant lifestyle destinations, eccentric fusion cuisine, varied religious beliefs, and many more. It is a modern day mix of the old and new, the West and East. It is also home to a superb array of attractions, from high-end skyscrapers, wide and verdant parklands, to busy street bazaars and pristine beaches. It is also known to be one of the world’s shopping paradises with its variety of mid to high-end ranged shops from both local and international businesses. Yet, there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. Inside all the glamour and grandeur, Hong Kong also boasts of tradition and rich culture that have been passed down from generation to generation. Celebrate festivals, bask in the local cuisine, and enjoy the scenic natural views of Hong Kong by booking your flights with just a click of a button. Fly to Hong Kong from all over the world with Cathay Pacific

But, before you get up and go, we have a list of some fun facts about this beautiful and glamorous city that you may want to know!

  • Hong Kong Island

Hong Kong is not actually just one island! Although Hong Kong Island steals the spotlight, there are actually over 263 islands in Hong Kong itself. Lantau, Cheung Chau, and Lamma, for example, are some islands that are accessible through ferry. Most of the other islands, though, are uninhabitable and unreachable.

  • The World’s longest Escalator

Hong Kong’s Central-Mid-Levels Escalator is considered as the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system which spans and stretches over 800 meters. Aside from being an effortless and hassle-free way to travel around the hilly streets of Central District and the residential Mid-levels neighborhood, this escalator is also an excellent opportunity to hop on and off to explore the various shops, markets, restaurants, and museums that are scattered around the town. Also, it is known to serve at least 85,000 people a day! A complete journey from one end to another takes about 20-25 minutes.

  • Feng Shui remains as common practice

Feng Shui, also known as “Wind and Water” is a traditional and mystical practice originating from Ancient China that claims to use energy forces to connect and create harmony between human life and the natural world. It is how the human life is connected to the energy flowing from and around nature. This practice has been used not only in Hong Kong, but is also seen practiced all over the world. 

In modern Hong Kong, Feng Shui experts play a major role in the city’s architectural development. One example of this is the famous HSBC building, which is widely seen from the city’s skyline. This landmark building is considered to have excellent Feng Shui that invites in wind and positive energy while preventing wayward evil energy and spirits from flowing upwards into the building. Not only that, there are two large bronze lion guards stationed at the entrance, which symbolizes wealth and prosperity, and two cannon-like structures on its roof, which supposedly wards off evil spirits and bad luck while deflecting it directly to its facing competitor.

  • Unlucky Four

The Number Four is actually considered unlucky because the Chinese word for “four” sounds very similar to the word “death”. This is why most, if not all, apartments and buildings in Hong Kong and China do not include a fourth floor. The number 8, on the other hand, represents wealth and good fortune. 

  • Daughter and Son

One belief in Hong Kong is that you are lucky if you have a daughter followed by a son. These characters in Chinese symbols literally translate to “good”.

  • Dim Sum

One of the best reasons why you should start planning your next Southeast Asia trip is to try Hong Kong’s world famous Dim sum, which literally translates to “little snacks” and means “Touch the Heart” in Chinese. This can actually range from different snack bite dishes such as Siu Mai, Har Gao, Steamed Pork Buns, Wheat Dumplings, Rice Noodle Rolls, and many more. These are usually served in tea shops inside steam-heated carts which are pushed around the restaurant. This has been known worldwide and is deeply rooted in Chinese culture.