The easiest way to experience the enchantment of the Far East is through fine humanities. Hong Kong arts are strongly affected by both the Chinese and English. The local history is obvious while on a visit to the historical and art collections as well as attending musical and operatic demonstrations.

Hong Kong Museum of Art

Due to Hong Kong\’s close geographic proximity, China seriously influenced fine arts in Hong Kong. The Chinese Antiquities Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art boasts over 4,000 pieces of art varying in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The rich cultural inheritance of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made from a range of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different artistic styles and techniques popular in the 20th Century and depicts the evolution in the fashions of Chinese artists. But perhaps the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historic photos. The collection evokes a sense of nostalgia for the exotic wild sweetness of Hong Kong\’s deltas and harbors prior to industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Maybe one of the most original methods of learning about fine arts in Hong Kong is through a trip to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in HK was a habit adopted from the Chinese however the British left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the latter 1800s, the first teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. At first, folk bought tea only to work to guests however through time tea has become a common beverage. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are drawn to the famous collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculptured from clay cropped from the town of Yixing in China, the teapots became popular with students starting in the 1500s. The museum also offers an interactive experience with tea gatherings for a very unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.

Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra

The British in Hong Kong were influential in the city\’s music scene. The British brought with them Western classical music, which can on occasion be enjoyed today at one or two locales. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must-see for visitors. Not only will the orchestra play the historic classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the blend of Western and Eastern music gives a special opportunity to appreciate the phenomenal history of HK.

Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre Operas

The Chinese influence in HK is also evidence in opera performances. Opera originally debuted in Hong Kong in the Cantonese language. Cantonese operas are still held in the Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre. The opera is an alliance of normal martial arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending a 1 hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is exceedingly counseled for visitors to learn about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in person is vital for a detailed knowledge of the Hong Kong\’s historic evolution.