Cheung Chau Island has long been one of Hong Kong’s most popular island escapes. The tranquil getaway island offers activities such as water sports and cycling – or simply kick-back and lounge on the beach before exploring the local markets.
The island is best known for the annual bun festival, held in May each year, in which competitors scamper up a tower of steamed buns to collect as many as possible. However, for many, Cheung Chau’s real attraction is its no nonsense, traditional village lifestyle. This is a world away from the suits and skyscrapers of the CBD and is a welcome contrast to most visitor expectations of Hong Kong. Fishing boats still ply the harbour and the waterfront promenade bustles with local seafood specialties and family run grocery stores. With a guide to explain the area’s history and suggest which snacks taste best, visitors leave feeling enlightened and revived following their time spent on this traffic-free island.
