The former British colony, Hong Kong, has grown into a booming metropolis today. The city skyline is adorned by mega malls, mouth-watering street food draws crowds of locals and tourists alike and a few hidden gems nestled in the heart of the city lie waiting to be discovered like the island’s chic boutique hotels. Hong Kong also boasts a unique mix architectural styles that both, chronicle the island’s history and give a hint of things to come. To immerse oneself in all the wonders this city has to offer, choose a central location also makes getting around convenient; book a stay at the Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong, a property that brings local flavour to a contemporary lifestyle.
Despite its place in the modern world and rapid development, there is much history and culture to Hong Kong. Pak Tai Temple, for example, is the largest on Hong Kong Island. The temple was built in 1863 by the people of Cheung Chau in honour of the Taoist God of the Sea or ‘Pak Tai’. Pak Tai is also known as the Supreme Emperor of the Northern Heaven or the Supreme Emperor of the Mysterious Heaven.
Strong Chinese architectural influence can be seen in the multi coloured dragons that lie on the temple roof. The highlight of the temple’s main hall is the imposing three metre tall copper statue of Pak Tai, which was cast in the Ming Dynasty. Wooden embellishments plated in gold date back to the Qing Dynasty of the seventeenth century. An iron sword from the Song Dynasty can also be seen at the temple. Pak Tai Temple also plays host to the quirky local Cheung Chau Bun Festival. The weeklong event is celebrated from the fifth to the ninth day of the fourth lunar month. The festivities include Taoist ceremonies, music, parades, lion dances, drum beating and a thrilling competition involving a tower of buns.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
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