Golden Bauhinia Square (also known as The Expo Promenade) outside the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on the Wan Chai waterfront marks the most significant occasion in Hong Kong’s history – the return of the former British colony to the People’s Republic of China (PRC), and the establishment of the Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong (HKSAR).
The handover took place in the convention centre with President Jiang Zemin and other PRC dignitaries representing China, and Prince Charles present to witness the relinquishment of what had often been described as “the richest jewel in the British Crown”.
The “Forever Blooming Bauhinia” Sculpture (Golden Bauhinia) is a gift from the people of the PRC to mark the widespread joy of the Chinese at the return of the territory to the Motherland after more than 150 years. Other gifts to commemorate the historic occasion were sent by each of China’s provinces, autonomous regions and other territories.
Near the Golden Bauhinia stands the Reunification Monument bearing inscriptions of President Jiang Zemin’s calligraphy. Visit at night time for a stunning view of the neon lit skyline of both Kowloon and Hong Kong.
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