Discover History: Battle of Hong Kong - Private Tour

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Il programma nel dettaglio

What role did Hong Kong play during the resistance against Japan in World War II? These chapters of history are often overlooked or forgotten.

In 1941, the Japanese forces invaded Hong Kong, but have you ever wondered why they deemed it crucial to occupy this land? Besides the stationed British troops, did you know that brave volunteers from Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, India, and other parts of the world fought valiantly in Hong Kong? They made tremendous sacrifices to defend this land. During our journey, we will trace the footsteps of these courageous soldiers and explore the indelible marks they left behind in Hong Kong.

Throughout the resistance against Japan, Hong Kong endured three years and eight months of darkness. But what exactly transpired during those harrowing times? To unravel these mysteries, our expedition will transport you through time and space, guiding you to iconic landmarks in Hong Kong that reveal the brutal and awe-inspiring history. Together, we will experience the profound impact that era had on this city. Let us rediscover this metropolis and pay the utmost respect to those who sacrificed and fought during the resistance against Japan. This is a journey filled with educational significance and heartfelt emotions.

Join us as we delve into the depths of history, reacquainting ourselves with this city and honouring those who persevered during the tumultuous days of the resistance.

1st Stop: Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence

Discover the transformed Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence, once the renowned Lyemun Fort. Uncover the gripping history of the Battle of Hong Kong as your knowledgeable guide leads you through the fort and its historical trail. Immerse yourself in multimedia exhibits and innovative presentations that bring the coastal defence story to life.

2nd Stop: Sai Wan War Cemetery

Step into history at the Sai Wan War Cemetery, nestled in Chai Wan, Hong Kong. Established in 1946, this solemn military cemetery stands as a tribute to the brave soldiers of the Hong Kong Garrison who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Second World War. With deep reverence, the cemetery commemorates a total of 1,528 soldiers, predominantly from the Commonwealth. Each name etched in stone tells a story of resilience and valour in the face of adversity. Join us in honouring these remarkable individuals who stood firm during the tumultuous days of resistance.

3rd Stop: Stanley War Cemetery

At the British surrender, the majority of the Western civilians in Hong Kong were confined at Stanley Internment Camp, which included the grounds of St Stephen's College and the warder's accommodation of the prison (which is now Stanley Prison of Hong Kong). Due to the lack of food and medical drugs in the camp, many people died at Stanley and were buried here at the time. Those "raw graves" are still preserved in their original shape. Following the Japanese surrender, many other wartime fatalities from this part of Hong Kong were also re-interred in the cemetery. The nationalities of the dead include 488 British, 20 Canadians, 5 Indians, 157 Hong Kongers, 2 Portuguese, 11 Allied personnel, and 10 unknown nationalities.

4th Stop: Stanley Barracks (Only Pass-by)

In the historical backdrop of Hong Kong's 1997 handover, Stanley Barracks stands as the former communication hub for British troops stationed in the region. Adjacent to it lies the esteemed Stanley Military Camp, encompassing the renowned Stanley Fort, constructed between 1936 and July 1937. Following the handover, the camp transitioned into one of the military bases for the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) garrison in Hong Kong. Maintaining its status as a restricted area, the military camp remains off-limits to the public, allowing only limited access for passing by. While the camp itself remains inaccessible, its significance in the military history of Hong Kong serves as a testament to the region's past and its evolving landscape.

5th Stop: Wong Nai Chung Gap

The gap is between Mount Nicholson and Jardine's Lookout behind Wong Nai Chung (Happy Valley). Five roads meet at the gap: Wong Nai Chung Gap Road, Tai Tam Reservoir Road, Repulse Bay Road, Deep Water Bay Road and Black's Link. It is a strategic passage between the north and south of the island. The Battle of Wong Nai Chung Gap was the largest sustainment of casualties in a single day, on both sides, of the whole conflict. Its subsequent capture by the Japanese effectively led to the downfall of Hong Kong Island, splitting the forces there in two.