The Hong Kong Shitoryu Karatedo Union (HKSKU) has the great honour to host the 11th Asia Pacific Shitoryu Karatedo Championships in November 2007 in Hong Kong. And we, the Organizing Committee, after more than a year of hard working, now has the great pleasure to express our warm welcome to all Senseis, delegation leaders, honourable guests, officials, and contestants, etc. to be participated in the events. We are sure that all of you will enjoy our hospitality and your staying in Hong Kong, and bring back to your home with full of happiness, friendships and good memories.
Hong Kong lies on the southeast coast of China at the mouth of the Pearl River. Visitors to Hong Kong find its fusion of cultures both fascinating and engaging, where ancient Chinese traditions are retained alongside fantastic modernity. The following is some useful information about Hong Kong:
History – Originally Hong Kong was a fishing village. It is due to the Opium War that Hong Kong was ceded to Britain in 1842. In 1984, the Joint Declaration signed by China and Britain agreed that the sovereignty of Hong Kong would revert back to China in 1997. From 1 July 1997, Hong Kong has become a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China.
Area – Hong Kong is divided into 3 vital parts: Hong Kong Island, approximately 78 km²; Kowloon, approximately 50 km²; and New Territories (including 235 outlying islands), approximately 968 km², making up a total area of 1,095 km².
Climate – Hong Kong's climate is sub-tropical, tending towards temperate for nearly half the year. The annual rainfall is about 2214 mm. During November and December there are pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Typically, temperatures range between 18-26 degrees Celsius, humidity about 70%. Most locals and visitors agree this is the best time of year to be in Hong Kong, with bright sunshine, gentle breezes and a relatively dry atmosphere.
Population and Language – The population of Hong Kong is about 7 million, of which 48% is male, 52% is female, and almost 95% is Chinese, 2% Filipino, 0.6% Indonesian, 0.5% American, 0.5% Canadian, 0.4% Thai, 0.3% British, 0.3% Indian, 0.3% Australian. The official languages are Chinese and English, with Cantonese the most widely spoken Chinese dialect. Use of Putonghua is growing. All major signage is in English or is bilingual. Visitors will find that most people in the service industries speak English.
Religion – About 90% Buddhist, 8% Christian, 1% Muslim, 1% other.
Time zone – GMT + 8.
Electricity – The standard electrical voltage in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. The majority of electrical outlets take rectangular three-pin plugs; adapters are available at shops and supermarkets.
Currency – The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar, the dollar sign is "HK$". The Hong Kong dollar is pegged to the US dollar, and the official conversion rate of US$1 is HK$7.8. All major currencies and travelers' cheques can be exchanged at banks, hotels or moneychangers with handling charges. Credit cards are widely accepted in Hong Kong.
Visa – Visitors to Hong Kong must hold a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the planned departure date from Hong Kong. Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods of seven days to six months, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status. For more information about Visa requirements, please refer to this website: http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm
Download Visa Application
Click here to download the complete documentation.
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