The Islands of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is located on the eastern Pearl River Delta of the South China Sea; thus it has the nickname “The Pearl of the Orient.” Hong Kong is comprised of the Kowloon Peninsula and more than 250 islands. It is home to more than 7.5 million people of various nationalities and is one of the most densely populated areas on Earth. Because of its continuously bustling activity, some people call it “the city that never sleeps.” However, Hong Kong also has quiet areas that offer peace and solace away from city life.

The island of Yim Tin Tsai once had a thriving salt industry and about 1,000 inhabitants. The Yim Tin Tsai Arts Festival began in 2019 by showcasing the use of stained glass to depict scenes of typical village life, traditional wedding ceremonies, and salt farming. Rough and rugged Tung Lung Chau, with its rich natural landscape, rock formations, and strong sense of wilderness, is an ideal place for camping, hiking, and rock climbing. The island is famous for having the largest and oldest dragon rock carving in Hong Kong measuring 1.8 by 2.4 meters and is said to be more than 5,000 years old.

Sharp Island is a 2.5-kilometer-long islet located in the northeast of Hong Kong that features distinctive rocks, endearingly shaped like pineapple buns. The island has a rich landscape featuring volcanic remains and is listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Tung Ping Chau, also known as Ping Chau, is listed as a UNESCO Global Geopark due to its unique sedimentary rock formations, cliffs, and wave-cut shores. Because of its diverse ecosystem, it is protected as a Country Park, Marine Park, and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Cheung Chau Island, famous for its springtime cherry blossoms, offers several historical sites including the Tin Hau Temple, where the locals worship Tin Hau, goddess of the sea. Po Toi, the southernmost island in Hong Kong, is known as a great location for star gazing. Hong Kong's largest outlying island is none other than Lantau Island. One can instantly recognize the island by a giant bronze statue of a sitting Buddha at Tian Tan Buddha peak; one of the symbols of Hong Kong.

Supreme Master Ching Hai has visited Hong Kong many times over the years and has on occasion expressed Her good impression of the place. “They were very kind. Everywhere I went, I felt a joyful energy. The people here don’t have many worries or much pressure.”