Trifter

Cheung Chau is one of Hong Kong’s smallest islands, being just two kilometers long. Yet, this tiny island is big on providing a relaxing getaway for city-weary folk. What I love about Cheung Chau is that it is all that the big city is not: a good stretch of sand, relatively cleaner air, quaint seafood restaurants, low rise buildings, small roads and practically no vehicular traffic (save for the island’s lone mini-ambulance).

The main feature is the so-called “mini great wall,” which is actually a paved stone trail that gently takes you up and along the coastal area. The entire hike takes just a couple of hours and is very easy to manage. This is the best way to see the island’s coastline. Rocky cliffs line the shore while lush plant life dominates the mountainside.

Before hitting the mini-great wall, you’ll pass through a few traditional apartments, restored and refurbished to house little stores. You then hit the Kwun Yam beach. Just move along the shore and signs will point you to the start of the trail.

If you’re more of a beach bum, there are windsurfs for sale. Otherwise, you can just find a seat in the many seafood restaurants the line the wharf.

White steamed bread buns dominate the souvenir inventory coming in the form of travel pillows, stress balls (or buns) and fridge magnets. This is because Cheung Chau is also known for its annual bun festival, which happens during the spring season. This festival is witness to visitors and locals crowding the streets, and the mad scramble for the little white fluffy treats.

Cheung Chau may not have the excitement and flair that Hong Kong is known for. In fact, there are a lot of other places that you wouldn’t think were there. But these little not-in-the-brochure destinations offer a great holiday experience.

Ferries to Cheung Chau leave from the Central Ferry Pier 5. The regular ferry ride takes about an hour, while the fast ferry ride cover about half an hour.

Photos taken with my Diana F+ 35mm analog camera.