Beyond the Buns: Cheung Chau off the Beaten Path

Cheung Chau is famous for its Bun Festival with its Piu Sik parade and Bun Scrambling Competition being two highlights of the event.

1.    Beach it!

Although Tung Wan is the most well-known beach in Cheung Chau, when it comes to water activities, Kwun Yam Wan south of Tung Wan is actually more suitable for water sports. It is home to Hong Kong’s first Olympic Gold Medalist, Ms. Lee Lai Shan, known affectionately as Shan Shan. She brought home gold in windsurfing from the 1996 Atlanta Games. Visitors can kayak, windsurf, paddleboard from this beach; Hing Kee Beach Store is the spot for snacks and beverages and offers equipment rentals. The vibes here are 100%. 

Address: Kwun Yam Beach, Cheung Chau

Phone: +852-2981-3478 
Website: Hing Kee Beach Store 興記

Photo source: Hing Kee Beach Store 興記

2.    Rent a bike and explore the island:

The best way to explore Cheung Chau is, of course, by bicycle. The most convenient place to rent a bike is along the waterfront, just a short walk from the ferry terminal. It's reliable and affordable, with several rental shops located just minutes away from the dock.

On weekdays, the rental fee for a bicycle is typically around $20 per hour or $40 per day, while tricycles cost about $40 per hour or $70 per day. Additionally, be sure to check the return times for each shop.

3.    The most authentic souvenir:

Visitors to Hong Kong, what do you get for someone who has everything? Tea! Yuandme Tea sells different kinds of Chinese teas, including many types of pu’er, a popular black tea served in most Chinese restaurants here and abroad. A good pu’er just hits different and the folks at Yuandme know their stuff. Test your tastebuds and sip to your health here. 
 
Shop address: G/F No. 102 San Hing Street, Cheung Chau

4.    Support independent bookstores:

To-Day Bookstore brought new books to the island. Founded by a group of friends, this place has become a hub and a purveyor of local knowledge. Besides books, the store has a small grocery section selling local brands. For more on local culture and history, make sure you get a copy of Cheung Chau Tells, a beautiful, bilingual peek into Cheung Chau life.

Address: G/F, 68 Pak She Street, Cheung Chau

Photo source: IG@to_day_bookstore/

5.    Support local designers: 

Island Workbench has figured out a way to revive Cheung Chau’s handcraft history to meet modern contexts. Island Workbench as a retail location that sells both handmade items and merchandise from other local brands. One of the founders, who has a background in fashion design, has incorporated local basketweaving tradition and the retired fishing community into recreating and selling fish net bags. Shop till you drop, and then grab a bite at their cafe! 

Shop Address: N0.1 G/F, San Hing Back Street, Cheung Chau
Cafe Address: G/F, 16 Chung Hok Road, Cheung Chau

Photo source: https://www.island-workbench-store.com/

Cheung Chau is more than just a day trip destination. It's an island with layers of history, culture, and natural beauty. By venturing beyond the tourist hotspots, you'll discover a side of Cheung Chau that few get to see, a side that will leave you with lasting memories.