Happy TravellerWelcome to Yuen Long Kau Hui, a historic area located in the western New Territories of Hong Kong. This charming destination is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more well-known areas, but it boasts a rich history, fascinating culture, and unique attractions that make it a must-visit for any traveler. Let’s explore what makes Yuen Long Kau Hui so special.
Geography:
Yuen Long Kau Hui is situated in the north-east of the present Yuen Long Town, south of a small hill and directly north of Yuen Long MTR station. It comprises several villages, including Sai Pin Wai, Nam Pin Wai, Tung Tau Tsuen, Tsoi Uk Tsuen, Ying Lung Wai, Tai Wai Tsuen, Wong Uk Tsuen, Shan Pui Tsuen, and Tai Kiu Tsuen.
History:
Yuen Long Kau Hui has a fascinating history that dates back to the late Ming dynasty. The earliest market in Yuen Long was established and developed in Tai Kiu Tun near Tai Kei Leng. In 1669, during the reign of the Kangxi Emperor in the Qing dynasty, the market was moved north to the area now known as Yuen Long Kau Hui for political reasons. The market was set up by Tang Man-wai, a district magistrate of Longyou County in Zhejiang Province. At its peak in the early 20th century, the market had around one hundred shops. After the British leased the New Territories in 1898, they built Castle Peak Road to connect major areas of the New Territories and Kowloon. The villagers proposed and moved the market town to the main road across the river. Yuen Long San Hui was established in 1915, and after WWII, the business of Yuen Long Kau Hui declined, and most of the shops closed.
Villages:
Yuen Long Kau Hui is home to several historic villages, each with its own unique character and charm. Sai Pin Wai was set up by the Tangs of Kam Tin probably in the 17th century. Nam Pin Wai was set up by members of the Tang Clan. Tung Tau Tsuen was established in the 17th century by the members of several clans, the Chans being the major one, and others being the Loks and the Lis from Dongguan. Ying Lung Wai was established by a branch of the Kam Tin Tangs, who were originally in Nam Pin Wai but moved to the area to establish the village due to feng shui reasons. Tai Wai Tsuen was founded by the Wong clan and the Choi clan around the early 16th century. Wong Uk Tsuen was founded by Lam Siu-yuen, a 13th generation member of the Lam Clan, who moved from Tai Wai Tsuen some 200 years ago. Tai Kiu Tsuen was established some 400 years ago by four clans: the Chan, the Tang, the Tse, and the Leung.
Features:
Cheung Shing Street was one of the busiest streets of the market. It separates Nam Pin Wai and Sai Pin Wai. Two other notable streets, Lee Yick Street and Wine Street, connect with Cheung Shing Street. The three streets formed the center of the market. Nam Mun Hau is a built-up area located at the south of Cheung Shing Street, next to the former southern gate. Tai Wong Temple, a Grade I Historic Building, in Cheung Shing Street, is the main temple of Nam Pin Wai as well as Yuen Long Kau Hui. Yuen Kwan Yi Tai Temple, a Grade I Historic Building probably built in 1714 in Cheung Shing Street, is commonly known as Pak Tai Temple. Kwun Yam Temple, a Grade II Historic Building in Tung Tau Tsuen, is believed to have been built in 1712. Yi Shing Temple, in Wong Uk Tsuen, conventionally called Tai Wong Temple, is mainly for the worship of Hung Shing and Yeung Hau deities. Chun Yuen Ngat, a former pawnshop, at No. 72 Cheung Shing Street, was founded by Tang Lim-ming of the Tang Clan. Tung Yick Store, Nos. 20 A & 21 Lee Yick Street, is a former inn providing accommodation to traveling merchants from other villages. Entrance Gate of Tai Wai Tsuen, originally built around the early 16th century, reconstructed in 1911. Lam Ancestral Hall, at No. 157 Shan Pui Tsuen, was probably built in the 19th century.
Transportation:
The area is served by the Yuen Long MTR station Exit A/B.
Education:
Yuen Long Kau Hui is in Primary One Admission (POA) School Net 74. Within the school net are multiple aided schools and one government school: Yuen Long Government Primary School.
Yuen Long Kau Hui is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s rich history and culture. From its historic villages to its unique temples and buildings, there is something for everyone to discover in this charming area. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Yuen Long Kau Hui on your next trip to Hong Kong!
