A City Between Two Worlds: 8th Graders Explore Hong Kong’s Present and Past

In May, our 8th-grade class had the incredible opportunity to travel to Hong Kong, a city where towering skyscrapers meet colonial architecture, and where East and West, capitalism and socialism, co-exist. Over five days, we not only explored Hong Kong’s most iconic landmarks but also came face-to-face with the city’s rich and complicated history.

We began our journey early on day 1, gathering at Incheon International Airport. After landing in Hong Kong by midday, we spent the afternoon at K11 MUSEA, a creative art mall where modern design met global brands. Later, we had dinner near Victoria Harbour, watching the lights shimmer over the water, a perfect first impression of the city’s dynamic spirit.

On Day 2, we crossed the border into Shenzhen, part of mainland China, to visit a cultural village that showcased traditional Chinese customs. It was a chance to contrast Hong Kong’s global image with the broader Chinese identity. After returning to the hotel, many of us discussed the differences we had noticed, especially in language, architecture, and public behavior.

Day 3 brought us to The University of Hong Kong, the city’s oldest and most respected university. Walking through its historic campus, we learned about the city's British colonial past and its role as a center of education and free speech. In the afternoon, we toured Central Station, explored markets, and ended the day with a visit to the Temple Street Night Market, where we practiced bargaining and tried local street food.

Day 4 was our most anticipated: a full day at Hong Kong Disneyland. From thrilling rides to adorable parades, we shared laughter and selfies, creating memories that will last far beyond middle school. By this point in the trip, classmates who barely spoke before were chatting like close friends.

But Hong Kong is more than just a tourist destination. It’s a city standing at a political crossroads.

After being a British colony for over 150 years, Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 under the promise of “One Country, Two Systems”, an agreement meant to preserve its capitalist system, free speech, and legal independence for 50 years. The city became a Special Administrative Region of China, operating under separate laws and enjoying greater freedom than the mainland.

However, in recent years, this unique status has come under pressure. The 2019 pro-democracy protests and the passing of the National Security Law in 2020 raised international concern. Many fear that Beijing’s increasing influence could lead Hong Kong to resemble the rest of mainland China; more authoritarian, with tighter controls on speech, press, and politics.

Some experts believe Hong Kong might gradually lose its autonomy and become more integrated into China's socialist system, even before the 2047 deadline. Others argue that its global financial role will keep it somewhat distinct. 

On our final day, we packed our bags with souvenirs, but also with questions. How long can Hong Kong balance two systems, two histories, and two futures? What does it mean to be part of a city that’s always in transition?

This trip was a reminder to us that travel isn’t just about sightseeing. It’s about understanding the world as it is and as it’s becoming.