On Ping Chau, whispers of ghosts mingle with the sea breeze. Ping Chau, also known as Tung Ping Chau, is a unique island. It sits in Mirs Bay, the easternmost point of Hong Kong. This island holds a captivating history, far removed from the bustling cityscapes. Ping Chau was once a lively hub. Over 3,000 people lived here, sustained by fishing and farming. Over 100 fishing junks dotted the harbor. Now, only a handful of residents remain, their whispers echoing in the mostly deserted villages.
Ping Chau was once a smuggler’s haven. Guns and opium traded hands in secret. During the Cultural Revolution, it became a beacon of hope. Mainlanders risked their lives, swimming through shark-infested waters. They sought refuge on Ping Chau, a stepping stone to the freedom of Hong Kong. The island’s history is etched onto its very landscape. Unlike the volcanic rock formations of the rest of Hong Kong, Ping Chau is composed of sedimentary rock. The highest points, reaching 48 meters in the south and 37 meters in the north, offer panoramic views of Mirs Bay.
The island’s unique geology has created dramatic cliffs and wave-cut platforms. These are rare sights in Hong Kong. Explore the crescent-shaped coastline. Discover beaches like Cheung Sha Wan, nestled within the curve of Ping Chau Hoi. The western coast tells a different story. Here, the relentless waves have sculpted the inclined siltstone into a rugged, rocky shore. Wander through the overgrown footpaths. Discover the remnants of ten villages. These include Sha Tau, the largest village, now a ghost town with boarded-up cottages. Orchids, wild mint, and morning glory bloom along the paths, a testament to nature’s resilience.
Ping Chau also holds spiritual significance. Visit the Tin Hau Temple, built in 1765. Pay respects at the Tam Tai Sin Temple, dedicated to Tam Kung, dating back to before 1877. These temples stand as reminders of the island’s rich cultural heritage. The remaining villagers keep the traditions alive. You might even hear the fading Ping Chao dialect in the local restaurants. The island’s natural beauty is just as captivating. Divers explore the vibrant coral reefs. Over 60 coral species and 35 algae species thrive in the clear waters. Rock pools teem with sea urchins and crabs. These offer a glimpse into Hong Kong’s diverse marine life.
Ping Chau is a protected haven. It is part of the Plover Cove (Extension) Country Park and the Tung Ping Chau Marine Park. This protected status preserves its unique geology, ecology, and cultural heritage. Reaching Ping Chau is an adventure in itself. The ferry journey from Ma Liu Shui pier, near the Chinese University of Hong Kong, takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. As you leave the island, carry with you the stories of smugglers, refugees, and resilient villagers. Remember the dramatic cliffs, vibrant coral reefs, and deserted villages. Ping Chau, a whisper of Hong Kong’s past, offers a glimpse into a world lost to time.