Dumbbell Island is what locals call it. We are standing in front of Cheung Tsui Chau Teng on that island. It is also known as Long Island.
Cheung Tsui Chau Teng holds a special place here. Its history whispers tales of fishing villages that morphed into a tourist haven. Let’s learn more about this place.
Cheung Chau is located southwest of Hong Kong Island. It sits 10 km away. The island is small. It is only 2.46 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is densely populated. Almost 20000 people called it home in 2021.
The island has an unusual dumbbell shape. Two granite masses connected by a tombolo create it. This long shape led to its name Long Island. Cheung Tsui Chau Teng is a place that reflects Cheung Chau’s long history.
In 1898, the island’s destiny changed. It was leased to the United Kingdom. This lease lasted for 99 years until 1997. Cheung Chau became part of British Hong Kong.
At that time, Cheung Chau was mainly a fishing village. Many residents lived on junks. People from Southern China settled here. Hoklo Hakka Chiu Chau and Yue Ca people came. The island transformed. It became a commercial hub. Merchants sold supplies to fishermen. Boat repair services grew. It was a place for business. Farmers from nearby islands like Lantau came here too.
The central part of Cheung Chau bustles with activity. Shops and houses line narrow lanes. Motor traffic is impossible here. Small motorized trucks called village vehicles are used instead. These include mini fire engines ambulances and police cars.
Cheung Chau’s economy evolved over time. It was traditionally a fishing village. Fishing fleets still operate from the harbor. However tourism became a major industry. Sandy beaches seafood cafes and traditional Chinese culture attract visitors.
Temples dot Cheung Chau’s landscape. The Pak Tai Temple is one of the oldest in Hong Kong. It was built in 1783. It was rebuilt in 1989. Four temples are dedicated to Tin Hau. Built in 1993 the Hung Shing Temple is managed by the Chinese Temples Committee. Kwan Kung Chung Yi Ting is dedicated to the god of justice Kwan Tai.
The Kwun Yam Temple is near Kwun Yam Wan beach. It was built before 1840. It is dedicated to Guanyin.
Other sights include Tung Wan and Kwun Yam Wan beaches. Rock carvings near Tung Wan Beach are ancient. They are declared monuments of Hong Kong. Cheung Po Tsai Cave is said to be a pirate’s hiding place. The Cheung Chau Mini Great Wall is a hiking trail.
Cheung Chau’s culture is vibrant. The Bun Festival is an annual event. It includes parades floats and children dressed as famous characters. It attracts thousands of visitors.
As you stand here at Cheung Tsui Chau Teng consider the island’s story. It is a story of change resilience and cultural fusion. From a small fishing village to a tourist destination Cheung Chau has retained its unique charm. It blends tradition with modernity. It offers visitors a glimpse into Hong Kong’s rich past and vibrant present.