At the southernmost tip of Hong Kong Island is the colony's main prison, which served as an internment camp during the Japanese occupation in the Second World War. The market - selling mainly textiles - in the former fishing village of Stanley is a favorite spot with visitors. The bathing beach which was once so popular was extended by
reclamation from the sea and built over. One feature of interest is the Tin Hau Temple, which dates from 1767.
In recent years Stanley Peninsula has become a residential area favored by prosperous citizens of Hong Kong. The modest houses which once stood here have given place to luxury apartment blocks.
From Stanley there are attractive hiking trails running through the southern parts of Hong Kong Island (for example a route northward, offering fine views, to the Tai Tam reservoir).