Hong Kong & Shenzhen: From Lamma Island to High-Speed Rail

Hong Kong and Shenzhen, from slow boats to ultra-modern metro systems.

Destination:ChinaCity:Hong KongPopulation:7.4 million
Hong Kong and Shenzhen, from slow boats to ultra-modern metro systems.
Tim Chambers2023-06-1217 min

I take a ferry from Lamma Island to Aberdeen and then the Hong Kong MTR Metro to Kowloon Station for a High-Speed train to Shenzhen, but fail, then have to change tracks (...) and use the MTR again up to the border crossing at Lok Ma Chau.

In contrast to Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, Lamma is peaceful and tranquil with an abundance of natural scenery. Buildings higher than three storeys are prohibited and there are no automobiles but diminutive fire trucks and ambulances, as well as village vehicles; distinctive open-back vehicles to transport construction materials. The community's only means of transport is either by foot or bicycle.

Lamma provides an alternative to the hectic life in the city. Property and rents are cheap compared with those of central Hong Kong. These factors have attracted a significant expatriate community to Lamma Island. It is also popular with younger people and a haven for artists and musicians.

There are regular ferry services to Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan from Central on Hong Kong Island, as well as to Yung Shue Wan via Pak Kok, and to Sok Kwu Wan via Mo Tat Wan, from Aberdeen. It takes about 25 minutes by ferry between Yung Shue Wan and Central. There are no cars on Lamma Island.

Hong Kong is officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China is a city and special administrative region of China on the eastern Pearl River Delta in South China. With 7.4 million residents of various nationalities in a 1,104-square-kilometre (426 sq mi) territory, Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated places in the world. Hong Kong is also a major global financial centre and one of the most developed cities in the world.

Hong Kong was established as a colony of the British Empire after the Qing Empire ceded Hong Kong Island from Xin'an County at the end of the First Opium War in 1841 then again in 1842. The colony expanded to the Kowloon Peninsula in 1860 after the Second Opium War and was further...

--- Tim Chambers
June 12, 2023, Summer in China

About the current video:( 6 / 22 )

Hong Kong and Shenzhen, from slow boats to ultra-modern metro systems.My Hong Kong and Shenzhen adventure began on the serene Lamma Island, a stark contrast to the bustling city. Life moves at a slower pace here, with no cars allowed, only bicycles and the occasional diminutive fire truck. I then took a ferry to Aberdeen before heading to Kowloon Station to catch a high-speed train to Shenzhen. Unfortunately, my plans hit a snag, forcing an unexpected change of tracks and another MTR ride to the border. Hong Kong, a densely populated global financial center, offers a fascinating blend of modern and traditional, while Lamma Island provides a peaceful escape. The journey continued to Shenzhen, showcasing China's ultra-modern transportation systems.

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Hong Kong & Shenzhen: From Lamma Island to High-Speed Rail

Tim Chambers explores Hong Kong's tranquil Lamma Island and vibrant city life, then journeys to ultra-modern Shenzhen via high-speed rail, experiencing a fascinating cultural and technological contrast.

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