Cheung Chau Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Cheung Chau through our comprehensive travel guide, including the best places to visit, food to try, activities to do, and local culture to learn.


Cheung Chau, located in the Outlying Islands of Hong Kong, is a scenic island that offers a perfect escape from the bustling city life. With its tranquil beaches, quaint temples, and picturesque hiking trails, Cheung Chau is a must-visit destination for nature and culture lovers. In this travel guide, we will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Cheung Chau, including the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and local customs to learn.

Introduction to Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau, also known as Long Island, is a small island situated southwest of Hong Kong. It has a rich history that dates back to the Ming dynasty, where it was a thriving fishing village. Today, it remains a prominent fishing spot in Hong Kong, attracting visitors with its fresh seafood and traditional fishing techniques. The island’s serenity and lush landscapes make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Cheung Chau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pak Tai Temple: The oldest temple in Cheung Chau, built-in 1783, dedicated to the Taoist God of the sea, Pak Tai.
  • Cheung Po Tsai Cave: A natural cave named after a notorious pirate who allegedly used it as a hideout.
  • St Anne’s Church: Built-in 1905, this church’s distinctive red roof is a recognizable feature of the island.

Natural Attractions of Cheung Chau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tung Wan Beach: A popular beach located in the north of the island, offering clear waters and a peaceful atmosphere for relaxing and swimming.
  • Mini Great Wall: A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the open sea, cliffs, and natural terrain of the island.
  • Kwun Yam Beach: A quieter beach located in the south of the island, popular with families with young children and those looking for a calm and serene atmosphere.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that are perfect for exploring the island’s natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Family Walk: A leisurely stroll that takes you around the town’s scenic spots, including the Tin Hau Temple and Pak Tai Temple.
  • Peak Circle Walk: A challenging route that leads to the Mini Great Wall and offers panoramic views of the sea and cliffs.
  • Cheung Chau Island Trail: The longest trail on the island, which takes you through forests, beaches, and the Mini Great Wall.

Best Things to Do in Cheung Chau: Activities and Tours

  • Fishing and Boating Tours: Experience traditional fishing activities with local fishermen or take a boat tour around the island’s scenic spots.
  • Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the underwater world of Cheung Chau’s clear waters and vibrant marine life.
  • Cheung Chau Bun Festival: Join the annual festival, held in May, where locals display colorful buns on bamboo towers to honor their ancestors.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cheung Chau

Day 1: Arrive on Cheung Chau and explore the town’s temples and historical sites. Day 2: Take a boat tour around the island and go snorkeling or diving. Day 3: Rent a bicycle and hike the Mini Great Wall trail to see the island’s scenic views. Day 4: Relax on the beach and swim in the clear waters at Tung Wan Beach. Day 5: Explore the local seafood markets and sample fresh seafood dishes. Day 6: Take a cultural tour of the island and learn about its rich history. Day 7: Attend the Cheung Chau Bun Festival and participate in the traditional ceremony.

Food and Drink Scene of Cheung Chau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cheung Chau-style seafood: The island’s fresh and abundant seafood, including prawns, fish, and crab.
  • Tofu Pudding: A sweet and refreshing dessert made from soy milk.
  • Cheung Chau Bun: A steamed bun with a sweet filling, traditionally made to honor ancestors during the Cheung Chau Bun Festival.

Local Beverages

  • Eggnog: A sweet and creamy drink made from egg and milk.
  • Pirate Beer: A locally brewed beer named after the famous pirate, Cheung Po Tsai.

Where to Stay in Cheung Chau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Warwick Hotel Cheung Chau: A beachfront hotel with spacious rooms and scenic views.
  • B&B Cheung Chau: A cozy guesthouse that offers a homely atmosphere and personalized service.
  • Cheung Chau Saiyuen: A glamping site that provides a unique experience of staying in nature.

What to Buy in Cheung Chau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cheung Chau T-shirts: Colorful and printed T-shirts, available in various shops and street markets.
  • Dried Seafood: A selection of dried fish and seafood, available in the local markets.
  • Cheung Chau Sesame Candy: A specialty candy made from sesame and sugar, available in snack shops around the island.

Local Culture and Customs of Cheung Chau

  • Cheung Chau Bun Festival: A unique festival that honors ancestors by displaying buns on bamboo towers.
  • Fishing Culture: Cheung Chau’s fishing culture is an essential part of the island’s history and identity.
  • Taoist Beliefs: Taoism is a significant influence in Cheung Chau’s culture, as seen in the many temples dedicated to Taoist gods.

Best Time to Visit Cheung Chau

The best time to visit Cheung Chau is during the months of April to October. The weather during this period is favorable for outdoor activities, including hiking and water sports. The Cheung Chau Bun Festival, held in May, is also a popular time to visit, but accommodation prices may be higher during this period.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cheung Chau

Do:

  • Respect local customs and beliefs when visiting temples and cultural sites.
  • Sample the fresh seafood dishes and local snacks.
  • Participate in outdoor activities and explore the island’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment in any way.
  • Disturb the locals or disrupt their daily routines.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting temples or religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau is a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a generally peaceful atmosphere. However, visitors should exercise caution when participating in water sports and outdoor activities, and follow safety guidelines provided by operators.

Health in Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau has a health clinic that provides basic medical services. Travelers are advised to bring their medication and consult their doctor before traveling, especially if they have any pre-existing conditions.

Getting to Cheung Chau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cheung Chau is only accessible by ferry from Central Pier 5 or from Mui Wo on Lantau Island. There are different ferry companies with varying schedules, so it is recommended to check the ferry times beforehand. Taxis and bikes are the only modes of transportation on the island.

Airports Near Cheung Chau

  • Hong Kong International Airport: 32 km away.

Bus Stations Near Cheung Chau

  • Mui Wo Bus Terminal.

Other Options

  • Private Boat: Visitors can also arrange for private boat tours to Cheung Chau.

How to Get Around in Cheung Chau

Taxis and bicycles are the only modes of transportation available on the island. Rental bicycles are widely available, and visitors can easily explore the island’s scenic spots.

Where to Go Next from Cheung Chau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Lantau Island: A popular destination for nature lovers and home to attractions like the Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
  • Peng Chau: A small island known for its hiking trails and scenic views.
  • Hong Kong Island: The bustling urban center of Hong Kong, home to attractions like Victoria Peak and the Symphony of Lights.

Conclusion

Cheung Chau is a pristine island that offers travelers a glimpse of traditional Hong Kong culture and a serene escape from the city’s busy life. With its abundance of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious food, Cheung Chau is a must-visit destination for travelers looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Hong Kong. Plan your trip now and embark on an adventure like no other.

Cheung Chau main settlement as seen from the surrounding hills. Cheung Chau main settlement as seen from the surrounding hills. Location of Cheung Chau in Hong Kong Location of Cheung Chau in Hong Kong Cheung Chau settlement in 1919. Cheung Chau settlement in 1919. Prehistoric rock carvings on Cheung Chau. Prehistoric rock carvings on Cheung Chau. A bun tower being prepared for the festival. A bun tower being prepared for the festival. The small Cheung Chau ambulance delivering a patient to the helicopter for transfer to a larger hospital. The small Cheung Chau ambulance delivering a patient to the helicopter for transfer to a larger hospital.