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Tour Feature: Religious Heritage

Tin Hau Festival Guided Group Tour in Sai Kung

Celebrate Tin Hau Festival with Explore Hong Kong!

May in Hong Kong is an explosion of colour and culture, as the city celebrates the birthdays of multiple deities. It’s one of the most vibrant and festive months of the year! Join our small group tour and experience the Tin Hau Festival like a true local with Explore Hong Kong.

Experience the Magic of the Tin Hau Festival

The Goddess of the Sea, Tin Hau, is celebrated with grand festivities throughout Hong Kong. Witness:

  • Cantonese Opera Performances** inside traditional bamboo theatres.
  • Lion and Dragon Dance Parades** that snake through the streets.
  • Temple Fairs** brimming with local flavour and excitement.

Celebrate the Tin Hau Festival on 26 May! Be swept away by the vibrant atmosphere and join the locals in the mesmerising Cantonese Opera performances.

Tin Hau Festival Lions

Immerse Yourself in Traditional Rituals

Marvel at the **Lion and Unicorn Dances**, each movement a testament to centuries of cultural heritage. Learn about the rich history and captivating stories behind this incredible festival, and uncover the deep-rooted traditions that have shaped Hong Kong’s identity and discover how different deities have influenced the lives of Hong Kong’s people, weaving a complex tapestry of beliefs and customs. Our tour will take you through this fascinating history, offering insights into the spiritual fabric of the city.

Get ready to snap stunning photos and take captivating videos as the vibrant procession unfolds before your eyes. Don’t forget to tag us in your posts!

Tin Hau Festival Lion Jump

Let’s Explore Hong Kong Together! Book Now!

Date

Sunday, 26th May 2024

Price

HKD $298  per person (maximum 8)

Transportation

Walking 

Meeting / End point

Sai Kung Public Pier, outside UNESCO Geopark Volcano Discovery Centre

Time

11:15am to 13:15pm (2.5 hours)

Inclusions

Expertly led by the licensed guide and the owner of the 140K-instagram page @explore_hongkong.

This is guided tour on everything you need to know about this Traditional Chinese Festival and we will be experiencing it like a local! Get Ready to take some really nice photos and videos on that day!

Exclusions

Public transportation and personal spending

Language

English

How to go to Sai Kung

Take MTR to Shatin Station, take Bus 299X to Sai Kung Town

Take MTR to Ma On Shan Station, take Bus 99 to Sai Kung Town

Take MTR to Diamond Hill Station, Exit C2, take bus 92 to Sai Kung Town

View more local tours by Explore Hong Kong below

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Tour

Lunar New Year Tour – Shatin Edition

Lunar New Year Tour in Hong Kong – Shatin Edition

Embark on a cultural journey with our upcoming Lunar New Year tour in the vibrant heart of Hong Kong. Join us on:

  • Saturday, 8th February 2025

Tour Highlights:

  • Price: HKD$ 700 Adults, HKD $420 for kids (5-17 years) HKD $50 earlybird discount before 20 January 2025 11:59PM 
  • Group Size: 3-6
  • Transportation: Walking and hiking
  • Meeting Point: Shatin MTR Exit B
  • Hosted in English
  • Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm (3.5 – 4 hours)

Inclusions:

  • Expertly led by a licensed guide and the owner of @explore_hongkong.
  • The tour includes Chinese Lunch at the oldest restaurant in Shatin, which is also Bruce Lee’s favourite!
  • Hosted in English.

About:

Many Shops and restaurants are closed during the Lunar New Year, but it doesn’t stop Angel from exploring Hong Kong! Join her this Lunar New Year so you can experience the vibrant festivities and traditions of this auspicious occasion. Angel, an experienced licensed guide and the owner of the renowned @explore_hongkong Instagram page, will takes you on an unforgettable journey through the New Territories.

The tour will take you to the Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery, where you will embark on a refreshing hike and be mesmerized by the sight of thousands of Buddha statues adorning the path. Keep an eye out for monkeys, believed to bring good luck in the Year of the Snake.

Following the hike, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at the 85-year-old hidden restaurant, where you can savour a range of dishes, including the famous chicken congee and roasted pigeon. This meal not only nourishes the body but also immerses you in the history and flavors of Shatin.

To conclude the tour, Angel will lead you to Che Kung Temple, the most popular destination for locals during the Lunar New Year. Feel the vibrant atmosphere as you seek blessings of good luck and fortune for the Year of the Snake.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to celebrate the Lunar New Year like a local in Hong Kong. Join Angel on this unforgettable journey and usher in the Year of the Snake with joy, prosperity, and good fortune. Kung Hei Fat Choy!

Tour Itinerary:

  • Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery: Hike the 500 steps! You might be able to see Monkeys along the way too!
  • Lunch at 85-year old hidden restaurant: Chinese lunch at the oldest restaurant in Shatin, known for its rich history and as Bruce Lee’s favorite spot.
  • Che Kung Temple: This is the MOST popular and luckiest place for locals during the Lunar New Year

 

 

Mid-Autumn Festival Food Tour

The MOONCAKE is not the only signature food for HongKongers during the Mid-Autumn Festival. There are a lot more! Join us this September to Yuen Long, a rarely explored place for tourists (and even locals!), to prepare for the Mid-Autumn Festival like an expert! It is one of the biggest festivals celebrated across Hong Kong!

We will be visiting the lantern street, where you will find yourself surrounded by hundreds of handmade lanterns, sampling and bringing home different traditional Mid-autumn festival food (not only the mooncake) in some of the oldest local bakeries in Hong Kong and learn about how important the Mid-Autumn Festival has been to Hong Kong people! (In the past, people saved money ONE year in advance to get mooncakes for their relatives and friends!)

The tour includes a total of food stops, from herbal tea to the must-have in Yuen Long and a variety of Mid-Autumn Festival snacks. Remember to come with an empty stomach!

We will finish the tour with local dim sum, handmade in Hong Kong! Have you taken ALL modes of transportation in Hong Kong yet? See Yuen Long through the window of the Light Rail Train, a less mentioned mode of transport but as classic as the other ones. I can assure that we will be exploring Hong Kong like a local!

Date

  • Sunday 8th September 2024
  • Saturday 14th September 2024

Price

HKD $620 per adult

HKD $420 per child (5-11 years)

Transportation

Walking 

Meeting / End point

Yuen Long MTR station Exit A

Time

11:00am to 2:30pm (3.5 hours)

Inclusions

Expertly led by the licensed guide and the owner of the 116K-instagram page @explore_hongkong with dim sum lunch and multiple food stops.

Exclusions

Public transportation and personal spending

Language

English

View more local tours by Explore Hong Kong below

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Tour

Tai Hang Fire Dragon Experience + Teacake Masterclass

When you hear “Tai Hang,” the first thing that comes to mind is the incredible fire dragon dance, a tradition that’s been going strong for a century. But there’s more to this spot than meets the eye – it used to be a bustling Hakka village, and now it’s a hub of cool shops and historical spots that everyone loves. That’s why it’s often called Causeway Bay’s backyard! Join us for this one-off tour of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre in English, for behind the scenes access ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations.

Tour includes:

  • Expertly led in-depth tour of the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Heritage Centre at 12 School Street, Tai Hang
  • Hakka Steamed Buns making workshop
  • A rendezvous with Fire Dragon itself
  • ️Lunch at Hakka Ting
  • A visit to the unique Lin Fa Kung Temple
  • MTR travel

Workshop (Hakka Steamed Buns):

Next, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with an immersive Hakka Steamed Buns workshop. Learn the art of crafting these delightful delicacies under the guidance of experienced Hakka chefs. Unleash your creativity as you shape the buns, fill them with scrumptious ingredients, and embrace the culinary traditions of the Hakka people.

Fire Dragon Visit:

This one-off visit grants you access to the awe-inspiring Fire Dragon for the last time before the festivities begin. You will be able to see the scale and meticulous craftsmanship of the unique dragon sculpture which is adorned with countless incense sticks, later to be arefired up during the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. 

Lunch at Hakka Ting:

As the day unfolds, indulge in an exquisite lunch at Hakka Ting, a charming restaurant renowned for its delectable Hakka cuisine. Savor the authentic flavors of traditional dishes, elevating your culinary adventure to new heights. The rich heritage of Hakka food will be a perfect complement to the immersive experiences of the day.

Visit to the Lin Fa Kung Temple:

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Lin Fa Kung Temple, a place steeped in history and spirituality, and unique lotus shaped architecture. 

Meeting point: Tin Hau MTR

Date: Tuesday 12th March

Time: 9:30am – 2:30pm

Inclusions: Local cultural heritage guide, lunch, Hakka teacake workshop

Adult ticket: $318

Language: English

 

 

Tour code: CTIS-ICHKFIREDRAGON12

Tai O Hau Wong Festival Tour

Join us on this annual Cultural festival at the charming Tai O, the most well-preserved fishing village in Hong Kong, to experience the Hau Wong Festival like a local!

The birthday of Hau Wong, a loyal general in the Southern Song dynasty, is celebrated in Tai O every year on the 6th Day of the 6th Lunar month. Celebrate the festival with us like a local by joining a Chinese Opera. Learn about the history of Tai O and understand how different Gods are important to the people of Tai O .

Enjoy a small boat ride around the unique stilt houses of Tai O and potentially a chance to see the Pink Dolphin! We will also try tea cakes, maybe more local snacks, prepared by local aunties! Let’s explore Hong Kong like a local!

Secure your place by booking on or before 21st July!

Date: Sunday, 23rd July 2023

Price: HKD$ 580  per person

Transportation: Walking and boat ride through Pearl River Delta

Meeting: Tai O Ferry Pier

End Point: Tai O Centre

Time: 11:00am to 2:00pm 

Inclusions:

Expertly led by licensed guide and owner of the 110K-instagram page @explore_hongkong, the tour includes a boat ride in Tai O for a chance to see the Pink dolphin and THREE food stops for traditional food and drinks in Tai O. Join locals for a Cantonese Opera!

Exclusions: Public transportation and personal spending

Language: English

Tour code: HKG-CHIS-TAIO-HAUWONG

Highlights:

  • Enjoy a small boat ride around the unique stilt houses and potentially get to see the pink dolphins which live in the estuary
  • Join a Chinese Opera with locals!
  • Story and traditions of Hau Wong Festival in Hong Kong – including traditional rituals performed by locals during Hau Wong Festival and joining villagers for roasted pork ceremony, roasted pork-sharing ceremony and behind-the-scene of other rituals.
  • Visit the 300-year-old Yeung Hau Temple in Tai O, which has kept people living in Tai O safe for centuries! Plus the Tin Hau Temple for good luck.
  • Enjoy the locally made teacakes handcrafted by the village aunties!

Dragon Boat Festival Tour

Join us on a group tour for this annual Cultural festival at the charming Aberdeen Harbour to experience the Dragon Boat Festival like a local! Aberdeen Dragon Boat Race is one the oldest and most traditional in Hong Kong, with more than a hundred year of history.

Learn about the history and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival, watch the Dragon Boat Race ON A SAMPAN fishing boat, try the traditional Cantonese Rice dumplings prepared by a local auntie and MORE! Let’s explore Hong Kong like a local!

Secure your place by booking on or before 20th May!

Date: Monday, 10th June 2024

Price: HKD$ 530  (Adult)

HKD$ 380  (Children between 3 to 12 years old, must be accompanied by an adult)

Transportation: Walking and Sampan ride on Aberdeen Harbour

Meeting: Lei Tung MTR station, Exit A1

End Point: Ap Lei Chau Market

Time: 9:00am to 11:00pm and 12:30pm to 2:30pm (two sessions x 2 hours)

Inclusions: Expertly led by licensed guide and owner of the 131K-instagram page @explore_hongkong, the tour includes a Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour and 1 food stop for traditional Dragon Boat Festival Rice Dumplings and drinks.

Exclusions: Public transportation

Language: English

Highlights

  • 45-min Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour with Captain Ten, a local fisherman in Hong Kong!
  • Story and traditions of the Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong
  • Visit the 250-year-old Hung Shing Temple, which has kept people living on boat safe for centuries!
  • The Shui Yuet Temple, Ap Lei Chau
  • History of Ap Lei Chau and Aberdeen, the birthplace of Hong Kong
  • Enjoy a Cantonese Rice dumplings made by local aunties!
  • We have prepared a Dragon Boat Festival souvenir for you!

Jewish Heritage of Hong Kong

Explore Hong Kong’s Jewish Heritage: Book a Private Tour and add these elements to your day

Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage is a captivating aspect of the city’s multicultural history. Despite a relatively small Jewish population of around 4,000 individuals residing in the city, their influence has been momentous. Our specialist Jewish guide to delve into this remarkable heritage.

Jewish Traders in Hong Kong

In the mid-1800s, Jewish traders were among the pioneering foreign merchants to establish businesses in Hong Kong, Macau, and Canton, taking advantage of China’s opening to international trade. Their involvement played a pivotal role in the development of Hong Kong’s economy, positioning the city as a vital trading hub in the region.

Ohel Leah Synagogue

One of Hong Kong’s most significant Jewish heritage sites is the Ohel Leah Synagogue located in Midlevels. Constructed in 1902, the synagogue bears the name of Leah Sassoon, an esteemed member of Hong Kong’s Jewish community. With its striking blue and white façade and intricate interior, the synagogue stands as a testament to the community’s history and devotion.

Jewish Cemetery in Happy Valley

The Jewish Cemetery in Happy Valley serves as a poignant Jewish heritage site. It serves as the final resting place for numerous members of Hong Kong’s Jewish community, including the influential Sassoon family, who played a pivotal role in the city’s economic development. This serene and contemplative location provides an opportunity for visitors to pay their respects and delve into the history of the Jewish community in Hong Kong.

Peninsula Hotel and Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui

The Peninsula Hotel and Nathan Road in Tsim Sha Tsui also hold great significance as Jewish heritage sites. Constructed in 1928 by the philanthropic and entrepreneurial Kadoorie family, the Peninsula Hotel showcases stunning colonial-era architecture and has welcomed numerous renowned guests throughout the years. Nathan Road, the thoroughfare that runs through the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, was named after Sir Matthew Nathan, a Jewish governor of Hong Kong in the early 1900s.

Diverse Roots of Hong Kong’s Jewish Population

Approximately half of Hong Kong’s Jewish population hails from overseas, representing countries such as the US, UK, France, Australia, South Africa, Israel, and Canada. This diversity contributes to the richness of Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage, underscoring the city’s role as a global center for trade, culture, and innovation.

Book a Customisable Tour

Embark on a journey to explore Hong Kong’s Jewish heritage, unravel the history and culture of the Jewish community, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s global significance. Our customisable tours offer an immersive experience, inviting you to book a tour with us and discover all that this vibrant and dynamic city has to offer. Book a longer full-day car tour of Hong Kong and Kowloon and include the Jewish Heritage elements to your trip.

 

 

Aberdeen Sampan + Public Housing Estate Group Tour

This is a tour where you can appreciate the nature, learn about the history and culture of Hong Kong and experience the life of local fisherman all at once!

Join us on an inspirational group tour, exploring Aberdeen, the cultural birthplace of Hong Kong. This includes Ap Lei Chau, the fourth most densely populated island in the world. During the 3-hour tour, we will be on foot and take a traditional wooden sampan fishing boat, and dive into the harbour’s history.

Enjoy a bowl of boat noodles, traditionally prepared by local fisherman, whilst enjoying the beautiful view of the Aberdeen Harbour on a sampan. You would be able to take photos in front of the iconic Hong Kong Floating Restaurant.

We will then visit one of the oldest public housing estates in Hong Kong to learn about the history of public housing development and understand more about how one-third of Hong Kong population live their lives in this second most expensive city in the world. A small hike around the area allows us to see the hundred-year-old waterfall and the seashore shrine which houses thousands of statues of Gods and Goddess, guarding people in the area for decades.

Let’s explore Hong Kong with us like a local!

Price

HKD$ 580

Transportation

Walking and Sampan ride on Aberdeen Harbour

Meeting

Lei Tung MTR station, Exit A1

End Point

Aberdeen Bus Terminus, Aberdeen

Time

11:00am to 2:00pm

Inclusions

Expertly led by licensed guide and owner of the 116K-instagram page @explore_hongkong, the tour includes a 30-min Sampan ride on the Aberdeen Harbour and a bowl of traditional boat noodles* and local food in one of the oldest cafés in Hong Kong!

Exclusions

Public transportation

Highlights

  • Explore Aberdeen, the birthplace of Hong Kong. Learn about Aberdeen’s earliest role as a vital port of trade, incense manufacturing and fishing.
  • Explore Ap Lei Chau, the fourth most densely populated island in the world, including the culturally significant Hung Shing Temple and Shui Yuet Temple
  • Continue the journey on a Sampan and take photos in front of the iconic Hong Kong Floating Restaurant.
  • *Enjoying a bowl of traditional boat noodles on a Sampan
  • Learn how important the God and Goddess of the Sea are to fishermen in Hong Kong
  • Visit one of the oldest public housing estates and understand about how one-third of Hong Kong population live their lives in this second most expensive city in the world.
  • A small hike to see the hundred-year-old waterfall and the seashore shrine which houses thousands of statues of Gods and Goddess, guarding people in the area for decades.
  • Visit one of the oldest Hong Kong cafés for local snacks and drinks

*tasting might change due to availability

We also provide this tour virtually if you are unable to join in person. Check it out here.

Big Buddha & Tai O – private Lantau car tour

Lantau Island Car Tour: Discover the Hidden Treasures

Comfort, Convenience, and Exclusive Access

  • Make the most of your visit by taking a Lantau car tour with your very own driver and guide.
  • Enjoy door-to-door service, collecting you from and returning you to your hotel, airport, or cruise ship, ensuring a seamless and memorable day out.
  • Experience comfort and convenience as we navigate Lantau Island’s attractions in a private car.

 

Choose from our car options:

  • Premium Toyota Alphard: Ideal for groups of up to 5 passengers, offering spacious and luxurious travel.
  • Luxury Mercedes V-Class: Perfect for larger groups of up to 6 passengers, providing a sophisticated and comfortable ride.
  • Benefit from our exclusive license to access the restricted zone of Lantau Island, offering unique opportunities not available with other tour companies.
  • Our knowledgeable and friendly guides, fluent in English, will ensure you make the most of your time in Hong Kong.

Flexible Itinerary and Tailored Experience

  • Choose from a variety of options to include in your itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.
  • Enjoy the flexibility to customise your tour and create a personalised experience.
  • If you have a specific destination in mind that is not listed, simply inquire, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Lantau Island Attractions: Unveiling the Gems

1. The Big Buddha: Visit the iconic Big Buddha statue and Po Lin Monastery.

    • Explore the importance of Buddhism and its representation in the hearts, minds, and belief system of the people of Hong Kong.
    • Ascend the 268 steps to the Tian Tan Big Buddha, a magnificent statue rising 34 meters into the air, offering panoramic views and attracting pilgrims from across Asia.

2. Tai O Fishing Village: Immerse yourself in the charm of the traditional fishing village.

    • Wander through stilt houses inhabited by fishermen and their families.\Experience the relaxed atmosphere and slow pace of life in one of the best-preserved places in Hong Kong.

Additional Options to Enhance Your Experience

  • Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car: Take a breathtaking ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, offering stunning views of the landscape surrounding the Big Buddha.
  • Cheung Sha Beachside Lunch: Indulge in a delightful beachside lunch at Cheung Sha, savouring the flavours of Hong Kong.
  • Tai O Waterfall and Rock Pool: Discover the natural beauty of Tai O with a visit to the waterfall and rock pool, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
  • Hong Kong DolphinWatch Experience: For nature enthusiasts, embark on the Hong Kong DolphinWatch experience and encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Unlocking the Charms of Lantau Island

  • As one of the only tour companies licensed to access the restricted zone of Lantau Island, a car tour with us opens the door to this fascinating part of Hong Kong.
  • Lantau Island, known as Hong Kong’s green lung, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore its captivating beauty.
  • Let us craft a personalised Lantau Island car tour that exceeds your expectations and creates memories to last a lifetime.
  • Contact us today to embark on an unforgettable journey through the hidden treasures of Lantau Island.

Shore Excursions

While your ship is in port, make the most of your visit by taking a private car shore excursion around Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula with your very own driver guide. We take all the stress out of your visit with our door-to-door service, collecting you from and returning you to your cruise ship terminal.

As well as offering comfort and convenience, we are one of the few tour companies licensed to access the restricted access zone of Lantau Island by car. Our knowledgeable and friendly guides all speak excellent English and will ensure you make the most of your time in Hong Kong.

We have a number of shore excursion car itineraries. The first is a classic Hong Kong Highlights tour taking in several better-known destinations. We often recommend this to first time visitors as it takes in many of Hong Kong’s best known and most iconic spots.

However, if you would prefer to go further off the beaten track to see another side of Hong Kong, we would recommend our Explore the New Territories tour. There are plenty of fascinating spots that are difficult to access by public transport and also tend to be a little less crowded.

Listed below are some of the options we could include in your itinerary depending on your interests and time constraints. Your itinerary is completely flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs. If you have a destination in mind that is not listed, please enquire and we will accommodate your request if possible.

Hong Kong Highlights Shore Excursion

Hong Kong Island:

Kowloon:

  • Wong Tai Sin Temple – Make a wish at Hong Kong’s most vibrant temple
  • Nan Lian Garden and Chi Lin Nunnery – Enjoy a beautiful garden and tranquil retreat
  • Mongkok’s Markets: Bird Garden, Flower Market, Goldfish Market, Ladies Market

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of Hong Kong and Kowloon 

Lantau Island for Big Buddha & Tai O Shore Excursion

Lantau Island:

  • The Big Buddha
  • Po Lin Monastery
  • Tai O Fishing Village
  • HKZM Bridge

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of Lantau Island for Big Buddha and Tai O

Explore the New Territories on a Shore Excursion

  • Sai Kung for the National Park or the seafood promenade.
  • Tai Po District: Wet market, floating fishing village in Sam Mun Tsai, Tsz Shan Monastery* and Guan Yin Statue.
  • Kadoorie Farm.
  • Abandoned villages and fortified walled communities in Sha Tin.
  • The 10, 000 Buddhas Monastery in Shatin.
  • Monkey Mountain the native (and very tame) Macaques monkeys. *Please do not feed the monkeys under any circumstances.
  • Jat’s Incline: An amazing panoramic view.
  • Shopping at Sum Ngai Brass Factory or Yuet Tung China Works

*A visit to the Tsz Shan Monastery must be booked at least four weeks in advance.

You can view our tour booking page here for a shore excursion of the New Territories

Cruise ships we receive booking for 2023-24: Celebrity Solstice, Westerdam, Costa Delizoiza, Costa Serena, Celebrity Millennium, Diamond Princess, Queen Mary II, Serenade of the Seas, Mein Schiff 6, Insignia, Royal Princess, MSC Bellissima, Norwegian Spirit, Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Coral Princess, Seabourn Encore, Seabourn Sojourn, Seven Seas Explorer, Silver Muse, Silver Nova, Viking Orion

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