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Flag of Hong Kong

Asia
1997
Flag of Hong Kong
HK | 2:3

Official Palette

Symbolism

Red represents the overall Chinese national context after the 1997 handover. The white Bauhinia blakeana flower represents Hong Kong itself (a hybrid orchid discovered in Hong Kong), with five stars echoing those on the flag of the People's Republic of China to symbolize the principle of 'one country, two systems'.

History

The flag was adopted on April 4, 1990, by the National People's Congress and first hoisted at midnight on July 1, 1997, when sovereignty over Hong Kong transferred from the United Kingdom to China under the Sino-British Joint Declaration.

Construction

A 2:3 ratio red field with a white stylized five-petal Bauhinia flower centered, each petal bearing a red five-pointed star.

Color Meanings

red: The People's Republic of China and prosperity
white: The Bauhinia flower and the rule of law
gold: The stars on the flower petals

Country Facts

Continent
Asia
Landlocked
No
Borders
Flag of China China
ISO 3166-1
HK

Flag Identification

Adopted
July 1, 1997
Proportions

2:3 (≈1.500)

23
Total Colors
2
Key Symbols
Emblem, Plant

Influences

Flag of the People's Republic of China
Bauhinia blakeana (Hong Kong orchid tree)

Flags with resemblance

Visually close designs. Compare colors and emblems, or try similarities mode.

Related flags

Flag Protocol

  • Must be displayed at government buildings and official ceremonies
  • The Bauhinia must appear white with a red five-pointed star on each petal

Practice

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