iSurprise Lighthouse

Strategic military spot

The narrowest part of the Lei Yue Mun channel measures just over 400 metres, which results in strong currents and makes the waters difficult to navigate and patrol. Throughout its history, the channel has been a hotbed for crime and smuggling.

The Japanese Invasion

This is also the closest you can get by sea across Hong Kong Island. The Japanese realised this and occupied Lei Yue Mun during WWII. They seized the fort and destroyed some of the military facilities. This lighthouse has been serving Lei Yue Mun for more than 50 years. Located at the main gateway of Hong Kong sea traffic, it has stood here as a witness to Hong Kong's ever-changing harbour.

The two Lei Yue Muns

Did you know that there are two Lei Yue Mun's in Hong Kong? One is located on Hong Kong Island, the other one is on the Kowloon side. The origins of the name, which literally translates to 'carp gate', are muddy. Some say the narrow, meandering channel looks like a gate, which is where you'll usually find carp. Others say it's named after a pond famous for breeding carp on the Kowloon side. Or does the name Lei Yue Mun come from the rock clusters - which resemble carp jumping out of the water - next to the lighthouse? You decide...