A series of attractions and tourism-related activities are to be staged in Hong Kong's Kwun Tong District during September as part of the Hong Kong Tourism Board "City of Life: Hong Kong is it!" tourism campaign.

Hong Kong Tourism Board Chairman Selina Chow made the announcement here Sunday at the launching ceremony of the "Kwun Tong Tourism Month."

Kwun Tong is one of Hong Kong's earliest developed urban districts and home to the picturesque Lei Yue Mun fishing village,a seafood lover's haven where visitors can buy fresh seafood from street stalls and have it cooked at a nearby restaurant.

Chow pointed out that, in addition to contributing to Hong Kong's international image, dining was a major area of tourism spending. "Last year, visitors' consumption of meals represented around 14 percent of their total spending. Gourmet dining, together with quality service, are among the main reasons for our reputation as the 'Culinary Capital of Asia'," she said.

During September, Lei Yue Mun's 18 seafood restaurants and 36 seafood stalls will be offering attractive discounts and fixed price menus.

On service, Chairman of Kwun Tong District Council Hau Shui-puinoted, "The theme of Kwun Tong Tourism Month is about showing courtesy to visitors to Kwun Tong whether they come from near or far."

Entertainment at Sunday's launch ceremony featured a seafood mascot parade, lion and unicorn dances, Chinese dance performances,street theater depicting traditional donkey-training, Chinese instrumental music performances and a variety of games.

Apart from the opening ceremony, other highlights of the month-long festival include arts and opera performances, a photographic exhibition documenting Kwun Tong's history as well as a Mid-AutumnFestival carnival.

Since September 2001, each of Hong Kong's 18 districts has beentaking its turn to promote its attractions as the "Recommendation of the Month," part of the "City of Life: Hong Kong is it!" campaign.

( Xinhua News Agency September 2, 2002)