Kowloon

Kowloon City, Mainland, opposite Hong Kong

Victoria City and Kowloon 1915

Hong Kong Kai Tak Airport 1971

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University east

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King george v school front facade 2004

Kowloon is an urban area in Hong Kong, located on the northern part of Hong Kong Island. It is part of the Kowloon Peninsula that extends southwards from the mainland part of Hong Kong and is surrounded by Victoria Harbour to the west and the South China Sea to the east. Kowloon is known for its dense population, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage. It is one of the most densely populated places in the world.

History

The history of Kowloon dates back to the Song Dynasty, when it was used as a military outpost. The name "Kowloon" translates to "nine dragons" in Cantonese, a name believed to have originated from the eight hills which dominate the district's landscape, with the ninth dragon referring to the Chinese emperor. During the Qing Dynasty, Kowloon was a part of China until it was ceded to Britain after the Second Opium War in 1860. The area known as the New Territories was later leased to Britain in 1898 for 99 years.

Geography

Kowloon covers an area of approximately 47 square kilometers. It is bordered by the Lion Rock and other hills to the north, Victoria Harbour to the south, Tate's Cairn and other mountains to the east, and Sham Shui Po to the west. The region is known for its hilly terrain and includes several parks and natural reserves.

Economy

The economy of Kowloon is diverse, with major sectors including retail, tourism, and services. The area is home to many markets, shopping malls, and commercial buildings. The Tsim Sha Tsui district, in particular, is a major retail and entertainment hub, attracting visitors from around the world with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Hong Kong Space Museum.

Culture

Kowloon boasts a rich cultural scene, with numerous temples, museums, and galleries. The Wong Tai Sin Temple is a popular cultural landmark, known for its traditional Chinese architecture and fortune-telling. The area's cultural diversity is also reflected in its culinary scene, which ranges from traditional Cantonese cuisine to international dishes.

Transport

Kowloon is well-connected by Hong Kong's efficient public transport system, including the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), buses, and ferries. The MTR's Tsuen Wan, Kwun Tong, and Tung Chung lines serve the area, providing easy access to other parts of Hong Kong.

Challenges

Despite its vibrancy, Kowloon faces challenges such as overcrowding, housing affordability, and environmental pollution. The government has implemented various urban renewal and development projects to address these issues, aiming to improve living conditions and sustainability.

See Also

• Hong Kong Island
• New Territories
• Victoria Harbour
• Tsim Sha Tsui