“Sun rises from the beach, the moon hangs above the cape,” this poem encapsulates the spirit of Chek Kok Tau. This is a place where nature and history intertwine. We are standing at Chek Kok Tau. It is the easternmost point of Sha Tau Kok.
Let me tell you about Sha Tau Kok. It is a town steeped in history and Hakka culture. For many years, it was a closed town. This added to its unique charm.
Sha Tau Kok’s story dates back centuries. Stone tools from the Neolithic Period were found here. This shows that people lived here long ago. The Qing dynasty also valued this area. They were interested in its salt flats and pearl beds.
The Great Clearance in the 17th century changed everything. Original settlers were forced to leave. Hakka settlers then arrived. They established villages along Mirs Bay’s northern shore. Sha Tau Kok became a Hakka stronghold.
In the early 1800s, villages joined together. They reclaimed land in Sha Tau Kok for farming. A new market was established. It allowed Sha Tau Kok to operate independently. This market was called Tung Wo Market. It thrived with trade.
In 1898, Sha Tau Kok was leased to the British. However, Tung Wo Market was not included in this lease. This caused problems for shopkeepers. Their market was cut off from their ancestral villages.
The 20th century brought more challenges. In 1967, demonstrators crossed the border here. They attacked the police post. Gunfire erupted. Five police officers died.
Today, Sha Tau Kok is changing. Restrictions have eased. Tourism is being promoted. However, Chung Ying Street remains closed to most. Some residents worry about the impact of tourism. They fear it will affect the community’s character.
As you look around Chek Kok Tau, remember its history. Think of the Hakka farmers and Hoklo fishers. Imagine the bustling Tung Wo Market. Consider the challenges and changes this town has faced.
Chek Kok Tau offers stunning views of Starling Inlet. This area is a designated marine fish culture zone. You might see various vessels. They berth at the Sha Tau Kok Public Pier. It is the longest pier in Hong Kong.
Sha Tau Kok is a border town. It is separated from Shenzhen by a border wall. Chung Ying Street is the only unwalled section. Before the 1980s, both sides strictly controlled border crossings. Even today, permits are needed to visit Chung Ying Street.
Sha Tau Kok has seen its share of smuggling. People tried to capitalize on market opportunities. They smuggled goods across the border. These included meat, clothes, and even live animals.
Let’s take a moment to appreciate Chek Kok Tau. It stands as a testament to resilience. It represents a blend of history and culture. It is a reminder of Hong Kong’s unique story.