Hong Kong has opened its doors to the prehistoric past with the launch of the Dinosaur Parlour on Friday, an exhibition showcasing the region's dinosaur fossils to the public.
The exhibit, located at the Heritage Discovery Centre in Kowloon Park, Tsim Sha Tsui, drew crowds of both residents and tourists eager to get a glimpse into the ancient world of the dinosaurs.
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The Dinosaur Parlour, which offers free admission, not only features a range of excavated fossils from Port Island but also includes a preparation area where visitors can watch experts demostrate the meticulous process of cleaning and restoring fossil specimens.
The excitement around the exhibit is palpable. Wong Lui-wai, who visited back in October when Hong Kong's first-ever dinosaur fossil was unveiled, said he is thrilled about the expanded exhibition. He is looking forward to more interactive elements being added, such as games that could educate visitors on the classification of different fossils.
Adding a touch of glamor to the prehistoric, fashion blogger Luo Ruqun, visiting from Guangzhou with her son, envisions a blend of fashion and fossils. She suggests that incorporating fossil themes into fashion shows could be a novel way of drawing the interest of the younger generations while providing an educational experience.
The Dinosaur Parlour doesn't just stop at exhibitions; it promises to be a hub for dinosaur enthusiasts and the culturally curious. A spokesperson for the Development Bureau has confirmed that the exhibit will be open for an extended period and will feature more specimens. As more fossils are prepared and research advances, the exhibit will update and enrich its content, offering visitors new experiences and discoveries.
Meanwhile, the Antiquities and Monuments Office (AMO) and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department will continue to organize a wide range of educational activities to promote public interest and knowledge in paleontology, according to a government statement on Thursday.
Li Qianxun contributed to the story.
