Peng Chau (坪洲) - A Quiet Gem of An Island
Hong Kong, often associated with hustle and bustle, does have some areas of quiet tranquility and peace which are far from the maddening crowd.
One of those places is the small outlying island of Peng Chau which is only a thirty minute ferry trip from the high octane life of Hong Kong Island.
Located off the north east coast of the larger Lantau Island, Peng Chau ("Flat Island") marches to the beat of its own drum and the slower pace of life is a welcome respite to all who live there and visit. The sleepy island is very small, so a person can hike around most of it in a short period of time; those who are more adventurous can rent bicycles.
Finger Hill at 95 meters is the highest point and has great views.
Temples on Peng Chau
Peng Chau is home to several famous temples which all have their own distinctive characteristics and are well signed posted in terms of directions.
The first monument tourists will be able to see is Tin Hau Temple which is a few minutes walk from the ferry terminal. For those who like to hike, they can stroll down the main promenade known as Peng Yu path or go further up to Finger Hill for 360 degree views of Peng Chau and its surrounding environment.
The most visited temple is Lung Mo Temple which is also known as Dragon Mother Temple; a trip to the temple is supposed to bring great luck to all visitors. One of the biggest days on the island is the commemoration of the Dragon Mother's Birthday - which is the eighth day of the fifth month on the lunar calendar.
Shopping & Entertainment
The island has many distinctive cafes, coffee outlets and seafood restaurants in the town centre. They can be easily navigated amongst all the smaller shops which sell a mixture of everyday items and souvenirs.
Nestled amongst the shops are also artists and creatives who have their work on full display and the most notable place is the venue known as the Leather Factory.
Peng Chau has a quiet and calm ambience and is worth a visit if you truly want to get off the beaten track and experience a totally new side to Hong Kong life.
Accommodation
The island is not overly-endowed with accommodation and many people stay on nearby Lantau or visit on a day-trip.
On Lantau choose from the Silvermine Beach Resort, Auberge Discovery Bay Hong Kong and Disney Explorers Lodge. All are up-market hotels.
Access
There are ferries to Peng Chau from Central Ferry Pier No. 6 in Central (journey time is around 30 minutes) and from Discovery Bay. The inter-islands ferry service also sails Cheung Chau - Chi Ma Wan - Mui Wo - Peng Chau.
Books on Hiking in HK
Rambles in Hong Kong (Oxford in Asia Paperbacks)
Hong Kong & Macau (City Guide)
Other Hong Kong Islands
Stay in Hong Kong
Book Hotels in Hong Kong - Booking.com
Hotels in Hong Kong - Agoda
Find Hotels in Kowloon - Booking.com
Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
Search Hotels in Macau - Booking.com
Venetian Macau Resort Hotel
Budget Hotels in Hong Kong - Booking.com