Hong Kong's Geography
The subtropical climate of Hong Kong with its four distinct seasons is best
visited when its relatively dry and cool which is from October to December.
Hong Kong's summers have average temperatures of 82 degrees F (28 C) and are
extremely hot and humid. Rainfall is plentiful during this time, April
to September, as Hong Kong's residents are subjected to typhoons. There
is a short spring and fall period and the winter temperatures average about 59
degrees F ( 15 C).
Hong Kong can be divided into three distinct areas: Hong Kong Island
(Victoria), Kowloon and the New Territories. Located across the bay from
Kowloon is what is commonly known as Hong Kong Island, or Victoria. This
section of Hong Kong has several notorious areas: the Central District, which
is the center of business; the Western District is heavily influenced by the
Chinese, it is also where the British first settled; Causeway Bay,
initially known as East Point by the British, is home to Victoria Park as well
as many high rises; Stanley, located on the southern side, is infamous for its
beaches, Stanley Market, and the nearby Stanley Prison; Aberdeen, also on the
south side, was the main fishing port before the British arrived and is home
to thousands of boats.
Kowloon is less than 4 square miles (11 sq km) but in its Mong Kok district
(as well as on Hong Kong Island), the population density is one of the highest
on Earth at 116,400 per square km. In this area is the "Golden
Mile," a strip known for its shops/vendors as well as its nightlife.
When Britain leased land from Boundary Street (in Kowloon) up the the Shenzhen
river (along with over 200 islands), this area became known as the New
Territories. In the New Territories are many villages as well as
numerous islands favored for weekend trips to relax. One of those
favored islands, Lantau Island, is actually larger than Hong Kong Island and
has been developed with resorts and town homes.
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