The first group of Chinese activists have arrived in Hong Kong after being deported by Japan.

Five activists and two television journalists received a hero's welcome when they landed on a flight from Okinawa. They are part of a group of 14 Chinese who were arrested after landing on an island claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing.

The group travelled to the island in the East China Sea on Wednesday, planting a Chinese flag and singing the country's national anthem before being arrested and accused of violating Japanese immigration laws.

Beijing had demanded that the activists be unconditionally released.

The uninhabited islands, known as Senkaku in Japanese and Diaoyo in Chinese, are a frequent flashpoint between Tokyo and Beijing. They are located in a gas-rich area and surrounded by rich fishing grounds.

The islands were administered by the United States from the end of World War II until they were transferred back to Japan in 1972. They represent not only important natural resources, but also a source of national pride in both Japan and China.