About the event
Throughout history, snakes have held a unique place in human imagination. Across the histories and cultures of both East and West, snakes have been seen as symbols of wisdom and agility. However, certain mythological narratives have also portrayed them as deceitful and malicious, fostering a complex perception that evokes both reverence and fear.
Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG) has long been committed to local snake conservation through wildlife rescue and public education, working to resolve human-snake conflicts. As we enter the Year of the Snake, our Wild Snake Rescue Project celebrates its 26th year. This exhibition is specially organised to invite you to re-acquaint yourself with snakes – they are not to be feared, but are an essential part of nature.
In this exhibition, we will share the achievements of snake conservation, provide correct knowledge about nature conservation and help dispel misunderstandings about snakes. At the same time, we hope this exhibition inspires visitors to care about snakes and nature conservation, and transform this attention into tangible actions.
A series of workshops, seminars and guided tours will be held concurrently, offering visitors diverse perspectives and experiences to rediscover snakes. Side by side, our teams at KFBG invite you to be our steadfast allies in protecting snakes and the natural world, supporting one another as we work toward a future where humans and nature live in harmony.
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Side by Side In Harmony｜Slither & Explore Half-Day Nature Tour
During the special exhibition ‘Side by Side In Harmony: Snakes, Nature & Us’, we are offering exclusive guided tours that will take you on an in-depth exploration journey. The tour includes onsite shuttle service and will guide you through the Kadoorie Brothers Memorial Pavilion, the Grassland Path and the T.S. Woo Memorial Pavilion, before ascending to the summit of Kwun Yum Shan. At the peak, you can overlook the terraced emerald tea gardens while savouring our specialty green tea. The tour continues to the Orchid Haven and the Gloria Barretto Orchid Sanctuary, where you'll gain comprehensive insights into snake conservation. Throughout the journey, professional guides will provide detailed explanations about snakes' unique characteristics, habitats, behaviours, and their crucial roles in the ecosystem. You'll have the opportunity to meet our animal ambassador – Ball Python up close. We invite you to slow down your pace, approach with curiosity and openness, experience the serene beauty of nature, and develop a deeper connection with snakes and all living creatures as we celebrate the beauty of natural diversity.
Dates | 2 Feb, 9 Feb, 1 Mar, 3 Mar
*Each activity day includes a morning session and an afternoon session.
Morning session | 09:45am - 12:15pm
Afternoon session | 1:45pm to 4:15pm
Webpage | https://s.kfbg.org/Nv6klh
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Side by Side In Harmony｜Natural Dyeing Workshop
The Natural Dyeing Workshop is a limited-time experience activity during the ‘Side by Side In Harmony: Snakes, Nature & Us’ exhibition, complementing the displayed ‘Hundred Families Snake Patchwork’. These artworks blend the Chinese traditional cultural symbolism of the ‘Hundred Families Quilt’, which conveys blessings for a newborn’s safe and healthy growth, with the natural characteristic of snake shedding. Earlier, artist Benjamin Ho led local primary and secondary school students to transform recycled clothing into unique artistic creations through natural dyeing, coinciding with the Chinese New Year tradition of replacing old clothes. After appreciating the art pieces in the exhibition, you are welcome to join the workshop where Benjamin will share insights about the relationship between local native plants and the art of dyeing. You'll have the opportunity to create your own handkerchief using Chinese Indigo (Strobilanthes cusia), a native plant grown in our garden, and experience firsthand the infinite possibilities of natural dyeing creation.
Dates | 21 January, 23 January, 26 January, 7 January, 6 February, 7 February,15 February, 16 February, 21 February
Time | 11:45am - 4:15pm
*Each session lasts around 30 minutes and starts on the hour.
Webpage | https://bit.ly/42gbVk8
About the organizer
Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG) spreads over 148 hectares of land on the northern slopes of Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong's highest mountain, near the town of Tai Po.
KFBG has a deep-set valley between two ridges, with a stream running steeply down through the forest. On the slopes there are forest, theme gardens, vegetable terraces, 8km of walking trails, 9km of roads, and conservation and educational facilities.
The Farm was established in 1956 to provide agricultural aid to farmers in need of support to help them lead independent lives; and to provide leisure and educational experience for the public. The theme gardens were designed and planted from the 1960's onwards, and through planting, natural process and protection from fire, what was once barren scrubland is now mature forest. Visitors are welcome.
KFBG's work and influence now spread far beyond the KFBG site. We raise awareness of ecological and sustainability issues, undertake species conservation and ecosystem restoration in Hong Kong, mainland China, Cambodia and Laos, reconnect people with nature, and promote sustainable lifestyles.