Been There – Hong Kong

Starbucks Been There Hong Kong mug is revealed almost two years after the release of the Mainland China batch. Interestingly enough, Been There Macau was released even earlier, back in 2021!

Hong Kong’s history is a tale of transformation from a small fishing village to a global financial hub. Originally part of imperial China, it was ceded to the British Empire in 1841 following the First Opium War. Under British rule, Hong Kong became a major port and trading center. The territory experienced rapid industrialization and economic growth in the 20th century, becoming known as one of the “Four Asian Tigers.” In 1997, sovereignty over Hong Kong was transferred back to China under the “one country, two systems” principle, which allowed it to maintain its capitalist system and a degree of autonomy. This unique historical trajectory has shaped Hong Kong’s distinct identity, blending Eastern and Western influences in its culture, architecture, and governance.

Here are just a few landmarks from Hong Kong as seen in the design of the mug:

– The front of the mug showcases Hong Kong’s skyline during fireworks. Tall buildings stand out against the dark sky, their windows shining with colorful lights. The famous Bank of China Tower and other skyscrapers make a striking outline. Fireworks burst above, filling the air with bright reds, golds, and silvers. These colors reflect in the water of Victoria Harbour, making the show even bigger. The mix of big city buildings and pretty fireworks creates a magical scene. It shows how Hong Kong blends old and new in a beautiful way.

– Lan Kwai Fong is a lively area in Hong Kong’s Central District. It’s famous for its nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants packed into a few small streets. Popular with both locals and tourists, it’s the place to go for a fun night out. The area comes alive after dark, with people enjoying drinks, music, and street performances. During festivals and holidays, Lan Kwai Fong hosts special events that draw big crowds.

– The Clock Tower is a notable landmark on the southern shore of Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. Standing 144 feet tall, this red brick and granite tower is the last remnant of the old Kowloon Station, once the terminus of the Kowloon-Canton Railway. Built in 1915, it features a 23-foot lightning rod and still keeps accurate time. The tower survived when the main station was torn down in 1978 and is now a Declared Monument.

– The back of the mug is showcasing the Bun-snatching Competition, which is a unique highlight of the Cheung Chau Bun Festival in Hong Kong. Held annually, this event sees participants climb a towering bamboo tower covered in sweet buns. The goal is to grab as many buns as possible, with those highest up worth the most points. Originally, climbers scrambled up the tower in a free-for-all, but after a collapse in 1978, the competition was suspended. It was revived in 2005 with safety harnesses and a more organized format. Today, it attracts both locals and tourists who gather to watch the climbers scale the tower, creating a festive atmosphere filled with excitement and tradition.