Hong Kong From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia 中国香港酒店 Hong Kong Island is an island in the southern part of Hong Kong, China. It had a population of 1,268,112 and its population density was 15,915/km² in 2006. The island was captured by the United Kingdom in the early 1840s, and the City of Victoria was then established on the island. The Central area on the island is the historical, political and economic centre of Hong Kong. The northern coast of the island forms the southern shore of the Victoria Harbour, which is largely responsible for the development of Hong Kong due to its deep waters favoured by large trade ships.
The island is home to many of the most famous sights in Hong Kong, such as "The Peak", Ocean Park, many historical sites and various large shopping centres. The mountain ranges across the island are also famous for hiking. The northern part of Hong Kong Island together with Kowloon forms the core urban area of Hong Kong. Their combined area is approximately 88.3 km2 (34.5 sq. mi.) and their combined population (that of the northern part of the island and of Kowloon) is approximately 3,156,500, reflecting a population density of 35,700/km² (91,500/sq. mi.).
The island is also sometimes locally referred to as "the Island side" (in specific reference to the south side of the Victoria Harbour).
