Explore Hong Kong’s Intangible Heritage on Free Guided Tours

In June, Hong Kong will celebrate its first Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Month, organized by the Leisure & Cultural Services Department. This initiative aims to raise awareness and appreciation of the rich tapestry of traditional practices and craftsmanship that define the cultural landscape of the city. As part of this celebration, the department is offering a series of free guided field trips that invite the public to explore various aspects of ICH across different districts.

The field trips are designed to provide participants with a unique opportunity to engage with local traditions and craftsmanship. Each tour will last approximately two hours and will be conducted in Cantonese, making it accessible for the local community. With a total of six trips scheduled, participants can look forward to exploring areas such as Yau Tsim Mong, Tsuen Wan, Tai Po, Sha Tin, Eastern, and the Islands. Each tour is limited to 20 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging experience for everyone involved.

Registration for these tours opens online on May 16 at 10:30 am and will remain open until May 17 at 6:30 pm. Given the limited capacity, it is expected that interest will be high, and if the number of applications exceeds the available spots, participants will be selected through a ballot system. This ensures a fair chance for all interested individuals to partake in these enriching experiences. Successful applicants will receive notification via email by May 22, allowing them to prepare for their journey into Hong Kong’s cultural heritage.

One of the standout field trips will take place in Tai O, a fishing village known for its traditional stilt houses and vibrant cultural practices. During this tour, participants will have the chance to witness a dragon boat water parade, a spectacular event that showcases the community’s deep-rooted maritime traditions. This particular experience not only highlights the significance of dragon boat racing in Hong Kong’s culture but also allows participants to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the parade.

The Hong Kong ICH Month is not limited to field trips alone. The Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau, in collaboration with the Intangible Cultural Heritage Office, has planned a variety of activities to further engage the public. These include carnivals, fun days, exhibitions, seminars, talks, and workshops, all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of the intangible cultural heritage that enriches the city. Each of these activities provides an avenue for individuals to learn about and appreciate the diverse cultural expressions that have been passed down through generations.

The significance of ICH Month lies in its ability to connect people with their cultural roots and promote the preservation of traditional practices. By participating in these guided tours, individuals not only gain insight into the craftsmanship and artistry that define Hong Kong’s heritage but also contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the importance of safeguarding these traditions for future generations.

As the registration date approaches, those interested in participating in the field trips are encouraged to mark their calendars and prepare for an enriching experience. The tours promise to be both educational and enjoyable, offering a rare glimpse into the vibrant cultural practices that make Hong Kong unique. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the city, these guided tours present an excellent opportunity to explore the intangible heritage that shapes the identity of Hong Kong.

In summary, the free guided field trips during Hong Kong’s ICH Month offer a wonderful chance to delve into the city’s rich cultural heritage. With limited spots available and a variety of activities planned, this initiative is set to engage the community and foster a greater appreciation for the traditional practices that define Hong Kong. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this celebration of culture and heritage—mark your calendars for registration and get ready to explore the fascinating world of intangible cultural heritage in Hong Kong.