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Members of the public in Taiwan will be able to take free rides on a life-size Hong Kong double-decker tram nicknamed the Ding Ding Tram, starting from tomorrow (November 16) till February 9, 2014 at the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei, giving them a taste of Hong Kong's glamour and history.
Organised by the Hong Kong Economic, Trade and Cultural Office (Taiwan) (ETCO), this promotional activity also involves Old Master Q, a well-known Chinese comic brand which originated in Hong Kong.
Noting that double-decker trams are unique to Hong Kong, the ETCO Director, Mr John Leung, today (November 15) said they have become one of Hong Kong's cultural icons. "In addition to authentic cuisine, Hong Kong trams are another major attraction for many Taiwanese visitors. It's an interesting experience to take a relaxing tram ride on the upper level, while watching the heavy traffic of people and vehicles at street level," he said.
"Apart from sampling a tram ride, we also hope the Hong Kong information displayed on the tram can help the Taiwan community gain a better understanding of our city," Mr Leung said.
The sides of the tram have been decorated with a variety of iconic Hong Kong features including distinctive buildings, famous landmarks, gourmet snacks and ferries. Also featured are the classic comic characters Old Master Q and Big Potato, who serve as "tour guides" and give the tram a genuine Hong Kong appeal.
During the tram ride along the main street of the cultural park, promotional videos of Hong Kong will be displayed inside the tram to enable visitors to see and experience Hong Kong's glitz and glamour.
Mr Leung also called on the Taiwan community to support the forthcoming Hong Kong Week 2013, which will be launched in Taipei in two weeks' time. Under the theme "Legacies and Innovations", this year's programme includes four thematic exhibitions on Hong Kong cheongsams, contemporary art, design and comics, cultural performances by the Hong Kong Philharmonic and Hong Kong Dance Company, and a number of extension activities to showcase the diversity of Hong Kong's culture.
For the latest information about Hong Kong Week 2013, please visit the official website (www.hongkongweek-taiwan.hk) or the dedicated Facebook page (www.facebook.com/hongkongweektaiwan.hk).
Ends/Friday, November 15, 2013
Issued at HKT 17:49
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