COVER STORY

SHINING PEARL

Since China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong, also known as the Pearl of the Orient, in 1997, the special administrative region has enjoyed constant economic growth and rising international prestige. It maintains an important role as an international financial, cultural and innovative hub, attracting highcaliber personnel from all over the world to study, work and live colorful lives. ■

(Photos by Xinhua)

Copyedited by Chris Surtees

Comments to zanjifang@bjreview.com

1. High-rise buildings dominate the skyline of Central District

2. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge consists of a series of bridges and tunnels crossing the Lingdingyang Channel that will connect Hong Kong, Macao and Zhuhai in the Chinese mainland. When completed, it will shorten transportation time from Zhuhai and Macao to Hong Kong from one hour on land and three hours by ship to 20-30 minutes

3. An aerial photo of the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, which was built at the end of the runway of the former Kai Tak Airport

4. People take a walk on Lugard Road on Victoria Peak, the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island, on May 2

5. People walk past a mural wall on the Hollywood Road in Central District on May 11