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Articles > Asia > China > Hong Kong > Lantau Island and Nearby
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Lantau Island and Nearby
Not far from the mainland of Kowloon, sits the island of Hong Kong. Nearby are others just as interesting and worth mentioning such as Lantau Island. This little piece of land is notorious for the Po Lin Monastery as well as the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, and has become the main attraction for history buffs and tourists.
While visiting Lantau Island, consider Mui Wo, which can be found easily on a scenic bike ride. If cycling isn't your cup of tea, there is a bus depot located in Po Lin for your convenience.
Accurately named after the 19th century silver mines, Mui Wo is seated on Silvermine Bay. Those same silver mines gave the people of Mui Wo optimism and supplied the area with financial independence. Long ago closed to visitors and the general population, the Silvermine Cave where the mining was done, was deemed a safety hazard, however, there is much left to be explored and seen. Take advantage of the trails that run aside Mui Wo's verdent greenery or the quiet tranquility of the coastal waters.
In 1729, a fort was built on the southwest quarter of Lantau Island, known as Fan Lau. This fort was used to secure the shipping trade on the Pearl River. At one time this area was acknowledged for it's seedy characters and the smuggling of drugs and weapons. Though it's history is less than reputable, the allure of it's remains offer visitors an interesting story and captivating view.
Recognized as "Hong Kong's Venice", Tai O, which is located west of Lantau Island, is home to many temples such as Hongshenye, Yanghou and Guandi. Tai O is likely one of the best places to eat fresh seafood like shrimp paste and fish, because it's location has made it a quaint little fishing village.
Directly facing the South China Sea is just one reason this island's Flora and views are breathtaking. Sample the local delicacies and enjoy a walk along the pedestrian bridges and then venture through the waterways where the famous Pang Uk houses are built upon stilts.
During the Han Dynasty, the Tanka people immigrated to Hong Kong and are responsible for the houses built on the waterways. Today, their descendants occupy them, fishing and navigating the waters for the last several hundred years. Local boat owners charge small fees but offer tourists a ride out on the water with the expectation they may see the well known Chinese white dolphin.
If you're curious about the area and it's history, the village offers a small museum, but for the most accurate and enlightened information, ask any of the villagers who are anxious to tell their story.
Ferry rides are available to a little out of the way destination called Peng Chau. This is an ideal place to plan a hike, as Peng Chau is endowed with rolling green hills and a serene atmosphere. The entire island is less than one square kilometer. Located in Finger Hill is a small Tin Hau Temple built in 1792.
The people of Hong Kong are friendly and eager to share their knowledge of their history, which makes Hong Kong a wonderful destination for the inquisitive tourist!
While visiting Lantau Island, consider Mui Wo, which can be found easily on a scenic bike ride. If cycling isn't your cup of tea, there is a bus depot located in Po Lin for your convenience.
Accurately named after the 19th century silver mines, Mui Wo is seated on Silvermine Bay. Those same silver mines gave the people of Mui Wo optimism and supplied the area with financial independence. Long ago closed to visitors and the general population, the Silvermine Cave where the mining was done, was deemed a safety hazard, however, there is much left to be explored and seen. Take advantage of the trails that run aside Mui Wo's verdent greenery or the quiet tranquility of the coastal waters.
In 1729, a fort was built on the southwest quarter of Lantau Island, known as Fan Lau. This fort was used to secure the shipping trade on the Pearl River. At one time this area was acknowledged for it's seedy characters and the smuggling of drugs and weapons. Though it's history is less than reputable, the allure of it's remains offer visitors an interesting story and captivating view.
Recognized as "Hong Kong's Venice", Tai O, which is located west of Lantau Island, is home to many temples such as Hongshenye, Yanghou and Guandi. Tai O is likely one of the best places to eat fresh seafood like shrimp paste and fish, because it's location has made it a quaint little fishing village.
Directly facing the South China Sea is just one reason this island's Flora and views are breathtaking. Sample the local delicacies and enjoy a walk along the pedestrian bridges and then venture through the waterways where the famous Pang Uk houses are built upon stilts.
During the Han Dynasty, the Tanka people immigrated to Hong Kong and are responsible for the houses built on the waterways. Today, their descendants occupy them, fishing and navigating the waters for the last several hundred years. Local boat owners charge small fees but offer tourists a ride out on the water with the expectation they may see the well known Chinese white dolphin.
If you're curious about the area and it's history, the village offers a small museum, but for the most accurate and enlightened information, ask any of the villagers who are anxious to tell their story.
Ferry rides are available to a little out of the way destination called Peng Chau. This is an ideal place to plan a hike, as Peng Chau is endowed with rolling green hills and a serene atmosphere. The entire island is less than one square kilometer. Located in Finger Hill is a small Tin Hau Temple built in 1792.
The people of Hong Kong are friendly and eager to share their knowledge of their history, which makes Hong Kong a wonderful destination for the inquisitive tourist!
About the Author
Abby Johnson is a staff writer at Visit World Cities and is an occasional contributor to several other websites including, Lifestyle Gazette.
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