The Hung Shing Festival, celebrated annually on the 13th day of the second lunar month, transforms Ap Lei Chau into a spectacle of tradition, culture, and vibrant festivities. This year, the island neighbourhood will host a two-week-long celebration in honour of Hung Shing, the god of the southern sea, also revered as the God of Water.
History of the Hung Shing Festival
It’s commonly believed the festival's roots trace back to Hung Hei, a revered historical figure from the Tang Dynasty known for his contributions to astronomy, geography, and the well-being of seafarers.
It was believed that Hung Hei established an observatory that helped offer weather forecasts that saved many fishermen from setting out to dangerous seas, earning him great reverence and the official title of “Kwong Li Hung Shing Tai Wong of the South Seas” from the Imperial court.
What to do in Ap Lei Chau During the Hung Shing Festival
Ap Lei Chau, once a quaint fishing village, now becomes a bustling hub of activity during the festival. Declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2014, the festival's centuries-old traditions are alive and captivating for both locals and tourists.
The 245-year-old Hung Shing Temple, a declared monument, stands at the heart of the festivities, hosting a series of religious rituals that date back to the Tang Dynasty.
Festivities and Events of the Hung Shing Festival
The Hung Shing Festival is renowned for its elaborate parade led by Taoist priests, dragon and lion dances through the city streets, and the lighting of water lanterns.
These lanterns, once a vessel for prayers, now carry wishes and memories, illuminating the night with hope and remembrance. The festival also features a unique dragon boat race, where teams paddle fervently to the temple, seeking blessings of safe passage, peace, and fortune.
As night falls, the bamboo theatre comes alive with the melodious strains of Chinese opera, a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of Hong Kong. Built specifically for the festival, this temporary structure offers a rare glimpse into the enchanting world of traditional opera, set against the backdrop of Ap Lei Chau's historic charm.
