Could deer once have roamed here? That’s the intriguing question that comes to mind as we stand here in Luk Chau Wan. This place is also known as Luk Chau Tsuen, a village on Lamma Island’s northeast coast.
Luk Chau translates to Deer Islet. Imagine barking deer once calling this place home. It’s a far cry from the quiet village we see today.
Historically, Luk Chau Wan was home to farmers and fishermen. These original inhabitants came from Baoan in Shenzhen. Life here was simple but connected to the land and sea.
In 1911, Luk Chau Wan had a population of only 54. Fast forward to 2018, and the village was home to only a dozen families. The number has declined even further since the COVID pandemic.
Luk Chau Wan is accessible in two ways. A speedboat from Aberdeen gets you here in 15 minutes. A 40-minute walk from Sok Kwu Wan is another option.
Once, a traditional Chinese village house stood out with its art deco style. A wealthy family, with an eye on turning it into a luxury property, had shipped European furniture to the home. It has now stood empty for some time and the family has apparently moved abroad.
Exploring Luk Chau Wan offers a glimpse into a semi-abandoned village. Many properties stand derelict. Vines and banyan trees reclaim them. Some houses contain furniture, crockery, and family photos, all left behind.
Despite the decay, some houses appear to be looked after. However, visitors often find themselves alone. The silence adds to the ghostly atmosphere.
Luk Chau Wan also features a Tin Hau Temple, built in 1868. Dedicated to the goddess of the sea, it also houses other deities. Pak Tai, Lung Mo, Kwan Tai, and the Earth God are all worshipped here.
A visit to Luk Chau Wan offers a unique perspective. It highlights the changes islands undergo. Nature slowly reclaims abandoned spaces.
As you leave Luk Chau Wan, consider the resilience of nature. Remember the families who once called this village home. Their stories linger in the air.