
Hello history buffs! High up in Pok Fu Lam, you’ll find one of Hong Kong’s hidden beauties, Béthanie. Situated between pine trees with stunning views of the Lamma Channel and the Peak, Béthanie is a sweet escape from the hectic city far below. This historical building complex is a gorgeous place to stroll, admire the French Colonial architecture and lush grounds, and learn about a special part of Hong Kong’s history, the French Mission.
A few fun facts…Built-in 1875 as a sanatorium for French priests to recover from tropical diseases, Béthanie helped heal missionaries from all over Asia for almost 100 years and was handed over in 2003 to Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, which now uses it for education and performances. Access to Béthanie is only through a scheduled half-hour tour, which takes visitors to the octagonal Wellcome Theatre, converted from former cowsheds; the chapel, with its high ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows; and the Sir Y K Pao Studio.
The tour is very intimate and informative and ends at a small museum where you can learn more about Béthanie and its various roles throughout history. Book your tickets online, and enjoy this secret spot!
A walk through Hong Kong's French Mission history, hidden beauty in a superb setting.
Anyone seeking a unique Hong Kong history lesson, adventurous visitors to Hong Kong, savvy event planners. Béthanie is best with an older school-aged child...or even with a group of adult friends!
Béthanie Chapel holds a regular Sunday service by the Emmanuel Church - Pokfulam, and is also available to rent for weddings and other religious ceremonies. The Sir Y K Pao Studio and Wellcome Theatre would be perfect for private and corporate functions of all types!
Tips:
* The best way to get to Béthanie is via bus or taxi, as parking is limited. Ask your taxi driver to follow signs to the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute, just below Béthanie.
* Tours are conducted in Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Tickets are HK$25 and should be purchased in advance through HK Ticketing. We would also recommend calling Béthanie directly, as they often have the most up-to-date information and available tours.
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