Nestled on the western edge of Lantau Island, Tai O, often dubbed the "Venice of Hong Kong" for its labyrinth of waterways and stilt houses, comes alive each year during the Dragon Boat Festival. On the fifth day of the fifth lunar month, the tranquil fishing village erupts with drumbeats, fluttering banners, and the vibrant spectacle of its Dragon Boat Water Parade, a tradition dating back over a century.
2025 Event: Public Invited to Witness "Waterborne Temple Fair"
This year's parade, held on May 31, 2025, is co-organized by the Intangible Cultural Heritage Office, the South China Research Center at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and the Joint Association of Traditional Dragon-Boats in Tai O. Visitors are invited to join locals in observing the rituals, from dawn ceremonies to dragon boat races, and immerse themselves in the village's unique maritime heritage.
Rituals & Rhythms: A Day of Tradition Unfolds
8:00 am – "Three Guilds" Launch the Ceremony:
The day begins with three historic fishing guilds leading the procession. Once determined by which guild caught the most fish, the lead boat is now chosen by divination, reflecting the decline of Tai O's fishing industry.
Choi Ching:
Guild members collect auspicious grass from Po Chue Tam hillside, placing it in the dragon's mouth to purify the boats.
Deity Invitation:
Dragon boats visit four temples to retrieve deity statues, which are placed on sacred sampans (Godly Boats) and anchored at temporary shrines (Lung Tun).
Noon – "Waterborne Temple Fair" Commences:
Three dragon boats tow the deity-laden sampans through Tai O's narrow waterways. Residents burn joss paper to appease wandering spirits, while incense smoke and chanting fill the air. Spectators lining the bridges and stilt houses witness a sensory feast of drumming, prayers, and vibrant interaction.
Afternoon – Races & Return of the Gods:
Post-parade, the deities are returned to their temples in reverse order. The climax arrives with a spirited dragon boat race, a tribute to the gods, and a test of teamwork. Festivities conclude with guild banquets featuring fresh seafood, some open to visitors.
A Ritual Born of Crisis
The tradition traces back to the late 19th century, when Tai O was ravaged by plague. Villagers rowed deity statues through waterways to ward off disease and restless spirits. Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2011, the ritual has gained global attention through preservation efforts by academic and cultural institutions.
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 8:45 am – 1:00 pm
Assembly: 7:15 am at Hong Kong Science Museum Roundabout (2 Science Museum Road, Tsim Sha Tsui East)
Registration: Submit online forms between May 12 (12:00 pm) and May 21 (5:00 pm), 2025. Confirmation emails will be sent by May 23.
Getting to Tai O
Bus: From Tung Chung MTR Station, take Lantau Bus 11 to Tai O (HK$14 weekdays; HK$23.3 weekends).
Ferry: From Tuen Mun Ferry Pier (HK$21.6–HK$32.5, half-price for children).
Water Taxi: Departs Central Pier 9 at 9:30 am; returns at 4:15 pm (HK$130/person; free for infants under 3).
Cable Car + Bus: Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (HK$195–HK$235) to Ngong Ping, then Bus 21 to Tai O (HK$7.9–HK$19.2).
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