Study Chinese in Hong Kong

by Joshua K. Hartshorne

Until retrocession to the mainland, Hong Kong was one of the last non-Mandarin strongholds of the Chinese World and until a few years ago Mandarin-speaking Chinese tourists found Hong Kong nearly un-navigable. Since mainland rule arrived in 1997, Mandarin is increasingly common and Hong Kong is becoming an increasingly attractive base for studying the language. The spectacular scenery, stunning modern landscape, cheap restaurants, and excellent transportation system are all just extras.

A typical Mandarin program is offered by the Center for Study Abroad (CSA), which runs a network of language programs around the world. Classes—of three hours a day, limited to seven students—start more or less year-round. Like most other study-abroad programs, CSA can help arrange a variety of accommodations including homestay.

For More Info

CSA: www.centerforstudyabroad.com

Languages in Action: www.languagesinaction.com/learn-chinese/china/hong-kong.php

Hong Kong Language Learning Centre: www.hkllc.com

The University of Hong Kong: Language Learning Centre: hku.hk/chinese/about%20the%20Department/mission.html

The Chinese University of Hong Kong: www.internationaleducationmedia.com/hongkong/chinese_university_of_hong_kong.htm

Joshua K. Hartshorne, Oberlin College ’02, studies Mandarin at National Taiwan Normal Univ.'s Mandarin Training Center.