Looking for the cats of Ap Lei Chau Main Street
You can only find them if they want to be foundIf you’re a fan of cats then you must pay a visit to Hong Kong’s very own cat street. Located in Ap Lei Chau Main Street, groups of felines reside in different parts of this peaceful street, spending their days with locals harmoniously.
Ap Lei Chau Main Street dates back to the Ming Dynasty, as the city developed, the street grew into a busy area occupied by shipyards near the end of the 19th century. Nowadays it is mainly residential with many families residing there for its peaceful ambiance and stunning views over Aberdeen Harbour. The area is also home to many cats, including three feline celebrities, Ling-Ling, Duc-Jai and Hak-Mui.
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Ling-Ling
Ling-Ling is a popular lady who hangs around the wet market near Hung Shing Temple. Identifiable by the bell collar around her neck, Ling-Ling is known for visiting the wet market each morning, unbothered by the hustling of sellers and customers hoping to get a snack from the fishermen. Seafood stall owners often toss her a small shrimp when they spot her tiny figure strolling by. When she’s not at the market you’ll find her at home, in the nearby Chinese medicine shop.
Duc-Jai
A playful boy who often lurks around a traditional tuck shop around Ap Lei Chau Municipal Services Building. He can be identified by the brown and black patterns on his body and is also a friendly resident who is always up for a chin scratch.
Hak-Mui
One of the most loved residents on Main Street. Tragically, Hak-Mui recently passed away due to a car accident. Locals mourned and commemorated the special cat for weeks after her passing, posting many of her photos on social media in her memory.
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Wild and temple cats
While you have just got to know the three stars of the street, there are plenty more furry residents living in the area. Less domesticated than the previous three, as you tread up the stairs leading to Lai Chi Road, you can often spot one or two cats resting on the ledges of hills and stairs. Do remember to admire them from a distance.
Some of the cats on Main Street are more ‘divine’ than others. The Hung Shing Temple is a grade one historical building, while the building itself has plenty of stories to tell, there are also a number of cats that reside in the temple. You will find them lounging outside in the sun, climbing up and down the temple pillars and even resting on the roofs. As you go and admire the traditional architecture, be sure to give them a friendly greeting, as they sure will be judging you.
