Towering frangipani and jackfruit trees, flowering shrubs, meandering paths set in manicured lawns, a tinkling fountain, bird song and the distant chanting of Buddhist nuns at prayer – an oasis of peace and tranquillity in the middle of Hong Kong. This is Hong Kong's Jewish Cemetery.

Surrounded now by high rise apartment blocks, with the entrance flanked on either side by a Buddhist temple and its school, the Jewish Cemetery in Hong Kong is one of the few in the Far East that remains in its original 19th century location. A worn Hebrew dedication plaque set into the back wall translates:

"For the souls who have departed this life for their Master in the holy community of Hong Kong, may G-d protect it. And this (land) is a gift of our mistress the Queen (Victoria), may G-d bless her, given with payment in full a sum of money that was necessary by David Sassoon in the year [615]. May he see offspring and have a long life."

Join Jewish community member Howard Elias as he takes us on a tour of this fascinating part of HongKong’s history. Howard will share the stories of some of the cemetery’s more notable residents, as well as the stories of some people you may never have heard of but who contributed to the fabric of Hong Kong. He will also discuss religious laws regarding burial, and the work he and the synagogue charity have undertaken over the past decade to maintain the cemetery grounds.

Assemble at 1:45 p.m. 

Tour begins at 2 pm and lasts 90 mins

Access: Shan Kwong Road, Happy Valley (entrance right after the school).  Best by taxi

RASHK members/ guests HK$50 per person (all the money going towards the cemetery’s upkeep and maintenance)

Booking: Please email membership@royalasiaticsociety.org.hk in advance to reserve your place and pay at the door

N.B.: Please wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes and bring along some mosquito spray, a hat and some drinking water