“Bay Beneath the Sea.” Can you imagine a more serene name? We’re near that bay now, close to Pak Sha Pai. This area reveals a history both peaceful and turbulent. Pak Sha Pai is part of the larger story of Pak Sha O.
Pak Sha O is an area and village in Sai Kung North. It’s found in the Tai Po District of Hong Kong. Historically, Pak Sha O had strong ties with nearby villages. These included Sham Chung and Lai Chi Chong.
In 1911, Pak Sha O was small. Only 117 people lived here. There were just 52 men. Despite its size, Pak Sha O played an important role.
Notably, Pak Sha O is home to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel. The villagers wanted to combat harassment from tax-lords. They converted to Catholicism. A first chapel was built in 1880. The current chapel was built between 1915 and 1923. Today, the Catholic Scout Guild uses the site as a training campsite.
Several buildings stand as Grade I historic sites. These include the former Ho Residence, the Ho Ancestral Hall, King Siu Sai Kui, and Hau Fuk Mun. You can find these buildings both in Pak Sha O and nearby Pak Sha O Ha Yeung.
Pak Sha O sits within the Sai Kung Country Park. This park makes up 40% of Hong Kong. Within it are 52 indigenous villages, called “enclaves.” Pak Sha O is one of the oldest. It faces unique challenges because of its location.
The village’s history dates back to 1911. During World War II, Japanese soldiers used one of the homes as a base. Until the 1970s, Hakka people lived here. They migrated out, and expats moved in. Today, no indigenous villagers live in Pak Sha O. The expat residents have worked to preserve the village. They renovate with respect for the original design.
However, developers have acquired nearly half of Pak Sha O. They plan to build more housing. This could harm the surrounding country park. Developers want to tear down old houses to build new villas. This would erase the village’s architectural history.
Development near Pak Sha O has already caused ecological damage. Residents want stronger protection. They would prefer to become part of Sai Kung Country Park. Land is valuable. The government prefers development in the enclaves. But, planning needs the support of the villagers. The hope is to revive the village gradually, repairing the existing structures.
If Pak Sha O vanishes, part of Hong Kong’s history disappears. New houses could destroy the village’s character. This would reduce the interest for tourists. They come here because of the unique architecture. The construction of houses may harm the ecology of the country parks.
As you stand here, consider the layers of history. Consider the Hakka farmers, the wartime occupation, and the expat revival. The story of Pak Sha Pai is a story of resilience. It is also a story of change. It reflects the ongoing tension between preservation and progress. What will its future be? Only time will tell.