The Wishing Tree in Tin Hau

As a student studying abroad in Hong Kong for a semester, I knew I wanted to immerse myself in as many local traditions and cultural experiences as possible. Little did I know that my New Year's adventure to the Wishing Tree in Tin Hau would become one of the most memorable highlights of my time here.

For those who might not be familiar, the Wishing Tree is a centuries-old banyan tree located in the village of Lam Tsuen near Tin Hau Temple. It’s a famous spot where locals and tourists alike come to make wishes, particularly during festive times like the Lunar New Year. The tradition involves writing your wish on a piece of paper tied to an orange (or a fake orange these days) and then tossing it into the tree. The higher your wish lands, the more likely it is to come true—or so the legend goes.

My friends and I decided to visit the Wishing Tree on New Year's Day to start our year with good vibes and hopeful hearts. The journey from the bustling city center of Hong Kong to the more serene village of Lam Tsuen was a welcome change of pace. As we approached, I could see why this spot holds such charm; the sight of the Wishing Tree adorned with countless colorful wishes was both enchanting and humbling.

The air was filled with excitement and anticipation. Families, couples, and groups of friends all gathered, each holding their wishes close. The sound of laughter mixed with the rustling leaves of the banyan tree created a harmonious backdrop to the festivities.

Writing my wish was a surprisingly reflective process. In the midst of my busy student life, it was a rare moment to pause and think about what I truly wanted for the year ahead. I carefully penned my wish onto the red paper, feeling a mix of hope and curiosity about the future. Then came the fun (and slightly challenging) part: tossing my wish into the tree. It took a few attempts, and plenty of laughs from my friends, but eventually, my wish found a snug spot among the branches.

Standing back and looking at the tree, now holding a piece of my hope for the future, I felt a deep sense of connection to this place and its traditions. It was a beautiful reminder of the universal human desire for dreams to come true and the various ways different cultures express this yearning.

The visit to the Wishing Tree also gave me a chance to explore the nearby Tin Hau Temple, a serene and spiritual spot dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. The temple's tranquil atmosphere provided a perfect counterbalance to the lively activity around the Wishing Tree.

Reflecting on this experience, I'm grateful for the opportunity to study abroad in Hong Kong, a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. Each day here offers something new and profound, enriching my understanding of the world and my place in it.

So, as I step into the new year, I do so with a heart full of gratitude, a spirit eager for adventure, and a wish hanging high in the branches of the Wishing Tree in Tin Hau.