The government is advancing the "tourism is everywhere in Hong Kong" initiative. Legislative Council member and city planner, Lam Siu-lo, recently guided the media on a tour of scenic spots including Kat O, Lai Chi Wo, and the Sha Tau Kok restricted area, acting as a tour guide to highlight ecological sites and historical buildings.

He suggested that Hong Kong could adopt practices from European river cruise routes, like those on the Danube and Seine, to promote waterway tours of various ecological attractions.

The tour traversed the three scenic areas by water, starting from Ma Liu Shui, passing the finger-like rock formation known as Devil's Fist, and reaching the first stop, Lai Chi Wo. Key highlights included the well-preserved Hakka village of Lai Chi Wo, mangroves, and a tree known as the "King of Hollow Trees," which has a large hole in its trunk but remains lush with foliage. Participants also enjoyed local delicacies like tea and chicken feet.

The second stop, Sha Tau Kok, featured several photo spots, including the old-style signpost The Corner of Sha Tau Kok, 1930s arcade buildings, the Sino-British Street Garden, a vintage-style train station, and the longest pier in Hong Kong.

The final destination was Kat O, home to the century-old wishing tree, a popular dating spot for past residents, and Tin Hau Temple. Lam noted that the Tin Hau Festival celebrated at the temple has a history of over 200 years, lasting 4 to 5 days, and was once as vibrant as the Cheung Chau Festival. He believes that integrating Sha Tau Kok with the entire ecological area for tourism development would be highly attractive.

Lam also mentioned that the Northeast New Territories boasts many rare natural landscapes and suggested the establishment of a cross-boundary ferry terminal in the Sha Tau Kok area. This would allow travelers from Yantian Port in Shenzhen to reach Hong Kong quickly.

Related News:

Section of road within frontier closed area near Lin Ma Hang Village in Sha Tau Kok opens today

Mainland residents can apply for Sha Tau Kok Pass online starting Sunday