Change coming to island idyll of Cheung Chau
Cheng Chau is a world away from the stress of the city, but residents fear encroaching tourism and the flight of the community's young people
Cheung Chau has long been seen as an oasis within reach of busy Hong Kong, with its small-island charm and its tranquil surroundings of sea, sun and sand.
The island's heritage, best seen in the popular Bun Festival held in May, annually captivates thousands of visitors from all over the world.
In the summer, groups of teenagers and young families book villas for a weekend getaway, Western tourists with Lonely Planet guidebooks eat local seafood, and mainland guided tours visit the island to shop.
But behind the facade lies the fact that Cheung Chau is an old neighbourhood with an uncertain future. Some say tourism development is eroding its heritage. But the bigger issue is a failure to pass its traditions on to the younger generation, who are torn between the simple and often carefree lifestyle of the island, and the promises and opportunities they see elsewhere.
"Cheung Chau culture is disappearing, I think. Many people are moving out," says Gloria Ching Pui-yiu, a young teacher of liberal studies at Buddhist Wai Yan Memorial School.
She has ventured off the island to live in Tai Kok Tsui, Wan Chai and Tuen Mun, but moved back home for her current job and a lower cost of living.
