What Is the Political Status of Hong Kong SAR?

Since 1997, Hong Kong has been an autonomous region of the People’s Republic of China with a “one country, two systems” method of governance. Hong Kong officially became known as a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China in July 1997 when the then-British controlled Hong Kong was returned to the mainland Chinese government.The One Country, Two Systems policy (OC2S) is set out in the Sino-British Joint Declaration to safeguard the special political, economic and social systems which govern the city, and which continue until at least 2047. This agreement states that Hong Kong will, while maintaining a high degree of autonomy, still enjoy its status as a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China.The amount of autonomy granted to Hong Kong is unique in the world. This system – part of the Basic Law – gives Hong Kong substantial civil liberties and a system of governance that separates it from mainland China. These laws and liberties, which are enshrined in Article 27 of the Basic Law and as part of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, help protect the city from becoming just another Chinese city.Hong Kong maintains its independent legal system. Other key symbols of autonomy include the legal protection of property rights and private enterprise; a standing yet independent police force; and the continued use of Hong Kong Dollars, which are separate from the Chinese Renminbi.SARs such as Hong Kong have an extensive degree of autonomy when it comes to domestic affairs – including freedom of speech, press, and assembly – while foreign affairs and defense exercises are handled by and coordinated with the central government. All laws passed in Hong Kong must be approved by both the Special Administrative Region (SAR) government and the central government in Beijing.The Basic Law, which forms the SAR’s constitutional framework and was adopted in 1990, sets out the rules and norms which must be followed. These rules and principles include free press, free market enterprises within the legal limits set by law, rules against discrimination, and privileges offered to foreign nationals who conduct business in Hong Kong.Hong Kong has a Central Government Office (CGO), which has departments responsible for overseeing a number of issues related to civil liberties and the rule of law. This includes functioning as the primary body responsible for matters such as elections, education, law enforcement, immigration, and other general functions related to maintaining the SAR’s autonomy and the rule book for its operation.In summary, Hong Kong is an autonomous Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. While it is nominally under complete control by Beijing, Democratic Liberalist Systems such as freedom of speech, press and assembly are enshrined in the Basic Law and still respected under the control of China. This autonomy has enabled Hong Kong to remain as one of the most important financial hubs in Asia. To learn more about Hong Kong’s political status, you can visit the government website of the Special Administrative Region for an in-depth view on all aspects of the SAR’s governance.

The Insider’s Guide to Hong Kong SAR

If you are planning a trip to Asia, don’t forget to include Hong Kong SAR in your itinerary. Known for its bustling atmosphere and rich heritage, this city is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and historical landmarks that make it a popular destination for tourists. In this guide, we will explore the local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to make sure that you make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions

Hong Kong SAR is home to numerous landmarks and attractions that offer a glimpse into the city’s past and present. Some of the must-visit places include:

– The Victoria Peak: offering stunning city views and a ride on the historic Peak Tram
– The Big Buddha: a statue of Buddha overlooking Lantau Island and the Po Lin Monastery
– The Temple Street Night Market: an action-packed street bazaar that lights up at night
– The Wong Tai Sin Temple: a beautiful Taoist temple that attracts hordes of worshippers every day
– The Central-Mid-Levels Escalator: a series of escalators and walkways that take you through the heart of the city

Dining Spots

If you are looking for some delicious food, Hong Kong SAR won’t disappoint you. The city is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse range of cuisines to choose from. Here are some of the best dining spots to try out:

– Tim Ho Wan: known as the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant, this eatery is famous for its dim sum
– Lan Fong Yuen: a local cafe known for its signature milk tea and pork chop buns
– Mak’s Noodle: a 100-year-old eatery specializing in wonton noodles
– The Chairman: a contemporary restaurant that serves traditional Cantonese food with a modern twist
– Sing Heung Yuen: a local street food stall that serves the best tomato noodles and beef noodles in town

Cultural Experiences

Hong Kong SAR is rich in culture and history, offering a range of experiences for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the local traditions. Here are some suggestions:

– The Hong Kong Museum of History: a museum showcasing the city’s history from prehistoric times to the present day
– The Hong Kong Cultural Centre: a venue for concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events
– The Tai Kwun: a colonial-era police station turned arts and culture center
– The Lion Dance: a traditional Chinese performance that involves acrobatic moves and martial arts skills
– The Tai Chi: a traditional Chinese martial art that promotes health and well-being

Local History

Hong Kong SAR has a unique history that blends Eastern and Western influences, making it an intriguing place to explore. Here are some of the city’s most significant historical landmarks:

– The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware: a museum that houses a large collection of tea ware and explores the history of tea in Hong Kong
– The Western Market: a historic building that used to be a marketplace for textiles and fashion in the early 20th century
– The Dr. Sun Yat-sen Museum: a museum dedicated to the life and achievements of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, who played a pivotal role in China’s revolution
– The Hong Kong Observatory: a historical weather station that has been in operation since 1883
– The Old Bailey Street: a street that used to be one of the city’s first red-light districts in the 19th century

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you have some extra time to explore, don’t miss these off-beat attractions that offer a unique side of Hong Kong SAR:

– The Nan Lian Garden: a serene and picturesque garden that offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle
– The Chi Lin Nunnery: a Buddhist nunnery that showcases traditional Chinese architecture and art
– The Monster Building: a dense public housing complex that has become an Instagram hotspot
– The Lamma Island: a quieter, greener alternative to Hong Kong’s busy streets, offering hiking trails and seafood restaurants
– The Yau Ma Tei Theatre: a refurbished theater that showcases Cantonese opera and local performing arts

In conclusion, Hong Kong SAR is a fascinating city that has something to offer to every traveler. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s history, indulging in some delicious food, or immersing yourself in local culture, you are sure to find something unique and exciting in this vibrant city.