New Territories facts for kids
New Territories (Chinese: 新界; Mandarin Pinyin: Xīnjiè; Jyutping: San1gaai3) is one of the three main parts of Hong Kong. It is located between Kowloon and the border with Mainland China. This large area also includes over 200 smaller islands that are scattered nearby. About 3.5 million people call the New Territories home. It makes up a huge 85% of Hong Kong's total land, and nearly half of all people in Hong Kong live here.
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What is the New Territories?
The New Territories is the largest land area within Hong Kong. It covers a vast amount of space, much more than Hong Kong Island or Kowloon. It is a very important part of Hong Kong because of its size and the number of people who live there.
Where is the New Territories located?
The New Territories stretches from the northern part of Kowloon all the way up to the border with Mainland China. It also includes many islands, big and small, that are found around Hong Kong. Some of these islands are quite well-known, while others are tiny and uninhabited.
How many people live there?
Around 3.5 million people live in the New Territories. This means that almost half of Hong Kong's entire population lives in this one area. Many people choose to live here because it offers a mix of city life and natural beauty.
A Look at New Territories History
The history of the New Territories is very interesting, especially how it became part of Hong Kong. It involves an agreement made a long time ago between two countries.
When did Britain get the New Territories?
In 1898, the British government signed an agreement with the Chinese government. This agreement was called the Convention for the Extension of Hong Kong Territory. Through this agreement, Britain leased the New Territories from China for 99 years. This meant Britain would control the land for that period.
Why was it leased for 99 years?
The 99-year lease was a common practice at the time for such agreements. It was a long period, but it was not forever. This specific lease was set to end on June 30, 1997.
When did the New Territories return to China?
As the 99-year lease came to an end, discussions began about the future of the New Territories and all of Hong Kong. On July 1, 1997, the New Territories, along with the rest of Hong Kong, was returned to China. This was a very important moment in Hong Kong's history.
Life in the New Territories Today
Today, the New Territories is a vibrant and diverse place. It has a mix of busy cities, quiet towns, and beautiful natural areas.
What are the cities like?
Many new towns have grown rapidly in the New Territories. Places like Sha Tin, Tuen Mun, and Yuen Long are now large, modern cities with tall buildings, shopping malls, and good transportation. These towns offer many homes and jobs for people.
Are there natural areas?
Yes, a big part of the New Territories is still very natural. There are many country parks, mountains, and hiking trails. People enjoy going there for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and camping. It's a great escape from the busy city life.
How do people travel around?
The New Territories has a very good transportation system. There are trains, buses, and ferries that connect different parts of the New Territories to each other and to other parts of Hong Kong, like Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. This makes it easy for people to commute for work or school.
Images for kids
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Butterfly Bay in New Territories
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A map of the leased New Territories and New Kowloon during the 1898 Convention for the Extension of Hong Kong Territory
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The British ceremony in Tai Po, 1899, assuming control of the New Territories
