Stanley is an attractive town located in the southeastern part of Hong Kong Island. Famous for its beaches, market, and bars, its a perfect weekend spot to pass the day away. Dine al fresco in the many Western & Eastern restaurants that line the promenade, and grab a bargain at the famous Stanley Market - from silk goods, to local Chinese crafts & arts, there is plenty to keep you coming back to Stanley...
Recommended for: GingerItas, GingerBeers, GingerChungs
Not recommended for:GingerGuccis
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Stanley Then:
Stanley was a fishing village that developed to become a scenic spot. A long time ago, in the center of the village, there was a large Red Kapok Tree, covered in red blossoms, hence, the village was given Chinese name for "red pillar" until the 19th century when the British, in honour of Lord Stanley, renamed the village.
In 1842, the British made Stanley the temporary administrative centre, before moving it to Victoria City (now Central). As a result many notable buildings were established in Stanley, including, Murray House built in 1844 (demolished in 1982) and subsequently rebuilt in a European style in 1998. Now, it is a three-storied building housing estaurants and a museum of the building.
Stanley was also where British and Canadian troops made their last stand before surrendering to Japanese troops during the Battle of Hong Kong in December 1941. Stanley Fort, the former British barracks in Stanley, is now occupied by the People's Liberation Army, following the hand-over to China in 1997.
Stanley Now:
Still makes a peaceful, pleasant escape from the bustle of the City. Traffic is minimal, and the pace of life relaxed, with plenty of excellent places to eat, good beaches and a large market to search for clothes, silks and souvenirs. Stanley is the place to discover colonial Hong Kong and Chinese traditions such as the Tin Hau Temple. You will also find many young people and tourists alike enjoying a beer and a snack on a Saturday and Sunday afternoon on the Waterfront.
In addition to the Stanley Market, other notable places to see are the Old Police Station, Stanley Beach, the War Cemetery, Stanley Fort and St Stephens Beach.
For a truly hair-raising experience, take the open-air double decker bus from central and sit up top. With all the windy roads, you will feel very lucky to get off alive!
Little Known Facts:
- Legend has it that Stanley was a favourite hunting spot for the notorious pirate Cheung Po Tsai...
- Stanley hosts some of the most hardened criminals in its prison...
- The Stanley Dragon Boat race takes place every June as part of the Tuen Ng Festival...
Be sure to check back regularly as this section is frequently updated with the latest local information...