Tai Tam Tau

Did Tai Tam Tau always have this name? Here at Tai Tam Tau, the wind whispers stories of the past. Tai Tam Tau isn’t just a cape. It’s a landmark steeped in history. It marks the entrance to Tai Tam Bay, a place that has witnessed dramatic changes over the centuries. Originally, Tai Tam referred to a much larger area, encompassing Tai Tam Bay and even the Stanley Peninsula. The name itself, Tai Tam, means “big pool” in Chinese, a fitting description for the triangular bay nestled between Stanley Peninsula, D’Aguilar Peak, and Tai Tam Tuk. Imagine the scene in January 1843. HMS Sulphur, commanded by Sir Belcher and Sir Kellett, sailed into the bay, documenting it shortly after the Convention of Chuenpi. They romanized the name as “Tytham.” Today, Tai Tam Tau stands as the western point of Tai Tam Bay. The eastern point is Cape D’Aguilar. The bay itself has a fascinating geography. It features a narrow inlet leading to Tai Tam Harbour, along with a much wider middle and outer bay. While the harbor averages a depth of about 3 meters, the bay deepens gradually, reaching 9 meters in its outer reaches. Tai Tam Tau witnessed the transformation of the area. From a quiet coastal region to a hub of activity. Luxurious apartment towers now rise along Tai Tam Road, and upscale residences dot the landscape near Red Hill. Yet, echoes of the past remain. The Tai Tam Tuk village, originally located in the valley, was relocated to Tai Tam Harbour due to the construction of the Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir. The area even saw fierce battles between Commonwealth and Japanese forces in December 1941. Tai Tam Tau, a silent sentinel, has observed it all.