Uncovering Macau’s secrets by foot
5 intriguing walking tours that give an insight into Macau’s colonial past and its colourful – and tasty – present.
Walking is the perfect way to explore Macau’s lesser-known districts and unlock the secrets of this fascinating East-meets-West pocket of Asia. To that end, Macau Tourism has created a series of short and easy-to-follow routes offer visitors a glimpse into local life and take in hidden gardens, magical temples and stunning Chinese and Portuguese architecture and monuments.
Here are five of the most intriguing.
The Mandarin’s House, Macau (Shutterstock.com)
1. Crossroads of China and Portugal
24 minutes
Take a stroll down the historic path in which two civilisations encounter, you’ll discover the life-long memory and emotions of Portuguese who once called Macau home. Starting at Senado Square, with its Portuguese cobblestones and pastel coloured neo-classical buildings you’ll encounter both colonial landmarks and unmistakeably Chinese buildings like the Mandarin’s House that incorporate subtle western influences.
Lao Fung Temple, Macau (Shutterstock.com)
2. Enchanting Stories of Our Lady of Fatima Parish
25 minutes
The tour of this old parish, where Portuguese and Chinese cultures coexist harmoniously, starts at the Arch of Barrier Gate and passes by the impressive 2,900 square-metre Areia Preta Triangle Garden; Lin Fung Temple, one of the three oldest temples in Macau; and the Ox Warehouse, an art gallery and performance space and meeting point for local artists.
3. The Marriage of East and West in St. Anthony’s Parish
40 minutes
Beautiful Portuguese and Chinese buildings are the stars of this route. Visitors will pass by well known landmark monuments such as the Ruins of St. Paul’s and Na Tcha Temple, but also some lesser known gems – Tou Tei Temple in Sam Pa Mun, San Kio Garden, Casa House and the Protestant Cemetery.
