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The island of Peng Chau, or ‘flat island’ — covering less than 1 sq km — offers a relaxing retreat with easy trails and a taste of real village life without the bustle of holidaymakers, yet it’s less than an hour’s ferry ride from the central business district on Hong Kong Island.
According to historical records, business activities on Peng Chau were thriving halfway through the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), and in some areas, time seems to have stood still for decades. Despite its small size, the charming island is dotted with Instagram and photography spots — from remains of an old factory, beaches and temples, to street arts which add vibrancy to this tranquil community.
Peng Chau Virtual Itinerary
Leather Factory
Hidden on the main street of Peng Chau, the Fook Yuen Leather Factory is easily one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations. The former factory — a Grade III historic building constructed in the early 1930s — has been transformed into a colourful ‘secret garden’, with artistic graffiti and creative installations made from chairs, bottles and tires, giving visitors the perfect background for taking selfies. You may also want to check out the newly developed art spaces on the island or visit the pottery workshops to get a glimpse of the island’s once popular pottery-making industry.
- Wing On Street & Wing Hing Street
Any visit to this island is not complete without trying some freshly cooked seafood. A number of cha chaan tengs (traditional Hong Kong cafes) and small restaurants are available along Wing On Street, just a short walk from the ferry pier. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as deep-fried shrimp toast, ice cream pineapple bun and steamed shrimp with glutinous rice, before you catch a ferry back to the city. For more food and drink options, there is a supermarket on Po Peng Street; many local grocers on Wing On and Wing Hing streets also sell fruit, snacks and bottles of water and other drinks.
- Ngan Chau Tsai Pavilion
Located at the far end of Peng Chau, Ngan Chau Tsai Pavilion is known locally as the ‘edge of the sky and corner of the sea’. To reach it, you have to take a leisurely climb over Finger Hill — rising 96 metres above sea level — before following a narrow trail. Standing on the island’s easternmost point, the pavilion offers a panoramic view spanning from Lamma Island, the western part of Hong Kong Island, to Tsing Ma Bridge and Hong Kong Disneyland.
- Lung Mo Temple
Lung Mo is a Chinese goddess of water traditionally worshipped by local villagers who often spend time at sea. This temple, which opened next to Tung Wan Beach in 1971, is the largest on the island, and has an interior decorated in gold. Legend has it that aspiring parents who touch the goddess’ bed will be blessed with a good marriage and a greater chance of having children.
- Tai Lei Island
Before heading back to the city, don’t miss the island’s perfect spot for enjoying the sunset and taking Instagram-worthy photos — Tai Lei Island, an islet connected to the main island by a short bridge. It has a small beach and is also a popular fishing spot.
