Study Buddy (Challenger): Hong Kong’s overlooked cultural attraction – trams
This page is for students who want to take their reading comprehension to the next level with difficult vocabulary and questions to test their inference skills.
A toddler takes in the view of Central on a tram, dressed in a Halloween costume. Photo: Eugene LeeContent provided by British Council
Read the following text, and answer questions 1-9 below:
[1] Trams are more than a mode of transport. The vehicles carry history, embodying a cherished part of the city’s identity as they travel across Hong Kong Island. We must recognise and harness the untapped potential of this 120-year-old system, adding new technologies and thoughtful planning to transform the train into a cultural landmark of the city for locals and tourists alike.
[2] The tram, endearingly known as “ding ding” by locals, is woven into the collective memory of Hongkongers who have ridden them since childhood. As trams shuttle to and fro, their distinctive bell – in contrast with car honking – chimes, a familiar signal to pedestrians and drivers alike since 1904; the unique “ding ding” is a quintessential Hong Kong street sound.
[3] The city’s trams are symbols of its cultural heritage, having witnessed the many changes that have unfolded in Hong Kong over the years. Trams hold immense potential for advancement through innovative technology. The Whitty Street depot in Sai Wan, which serves as a maintenance hub for trams, could introduce cutting-edge technologies to enable environmentally sustainable and cost-efficient solutions.
[4] Integrating smart navigation systems with augmented reality technology could allow passengers to scan attractions through a mobile app for real-time information and historical insight. Multilingual guided tour services, again accessible through mobile phones, would teach foreign visitors about Hong Kong’s rich culture and history. Converting trams into hotels on tram tracks presents a novel prospect, letting passengers savour the island’s night views from a distinctive vantage point.
[5] Trams can also serve as mobile art galleries. The Tramways Company could collaborate with local artists, providing them with opportunities to exhibit their works within the trams and host regular art showcases. Authorities might also consider easing licensing restrictions under the Places of Public Entertainment Ordinance, enabling trams to transform into live performance venues for musicians.
[6] Hong Kong’s current approach to tourism appears to prioritise one-time events or short-term initiatives. Hong Kong must establish a holistic and cohesive planning framework with thorough research on arts and culture, social resources and ecotourism.
[7] The city’s infrastructure planning traditionally leans on engineering perspectives, but it should also consider a collaborative effort from a diverse talent pool. For example, trams can go beyond their role as a mode of transport to embody cultural and touristic experiences. This would unlock a wealth of possibilities and the chance to nurture various industries.
[8] As a form of public transport, trams operate under policies formulated and overseen by the Transport and Logistics Bureau. The bureau should undertake extensive research and recognise trams as embodiments of Hong Kong’s identity. Beyond conservation efforts, there is a pressing need for innovation to modernise and reposition trams as invaluable tourism resources, strengthening the city’s competitiveness and allure as a prime travel destination.
Source: South China Morning Post, January 8
Questions
1. In paragraph 1, the phrase “harness the untapped potential” suggests that Hong Kong trams …
A. are currently underutilised.
B. are an outdated and obsolete form of transport.
C. have a long and intricate past.
D. used to be a major factor in attracting tourists to the city.
2. Based on your understanding of paragraph 2, what emotional connection do Hongkongers have with the trams?
3. Find a word in paragraph 2 used to describe an item that “represents the perfect example of something”.
4. How can the Whitty Street Tram Depot be improved, according to paragraph 3?
5. What is the main idea behind the concept of “trams as hotels on tram tracks” in paragraph 4?
A. provide a more eco-conscious hotel experience for environmentally-minded travellers
B. provide tourists with a unique and memorable travel experience
C. reduce traffic congestion during peak holiday time
D. create a more luxurious travel experience for tourists
6. Are live musical performances permitted on trams in Hong Kong, according to paragraph 5? Why or why not?
7. In paragraph 6, the writer thinks that …
A. short-term initiatives are the most effective way to boost Hong Kong’s tourism.
B. current tourism planning in Hong Kong may lack a long-term vision.
C. Hong Kong should prioritise short-term initiatives over long-term planning.
D. all of the above
8. Based on your understanding of paragraph 7, why should Hong Kong’s infrastructure development include more perspectives than just engineering?
9. The main purpose of the text is to ...
A. discuss the current state of Hong Kong’s tram system.
B. present the history of trams in Hong Kong.
C. analyse the tourism possibilities for Hong Kong’s trams.
D. none of the above
Answers
1. A
2. A nostalgic connection. Many Hongkongers have fond memories of riding the trams since childhood. (accept all reasonable answers)
3. quintessential
4. The depot could feature and equip trams with cutting-edge technologies, enabling more environmentally sustainable and cost-efficient solutions. (accept all reasonable answers)
5. B
6. No, because the Places of Public Entertainment Ordinance restricts the use of trams for live performances
7. B
8. Including other perspectives outside of engineering will help incorporate art, culture and history into infrastructure, creating tourist experiences and nurturing other industries. (accept all similar answers)
9. C