“Remote,” they say about places like Lung Ngan Kok. Yet, remoteness holds its own allure. Lung Ngan Kok may seem untouched. It stands apart from Hong Kong’s dense urban sprawl.
Now, I’ll tell you about Lung Ngan Kok.
Imagine a place where time slows. The whispers of the wind carry stories of a simpler life. It is a life where the rhythms of nature dictate the pace. This is the essence of Lung Ngan Kok.
Here, the heron stands at rest. It is perched on a branch half-submerged in the calm waters. Across the bay, Mainland China rises. Tower blocks and scaffolding mark its skyline. Minsk World, a theme park with a retired Russian aircraft carrier, adds to the scene.
Not long ago, Hong Kong was the more developed side. Today, Shenzhen thrives as a metropolis of over 10 million. It showcases China’s economic rise. Sha Tau Kok once marked the frontier. It separated a stable British Colony from a changing nation.
In the past, people crossed the border seeking asylum. They gathered in the hills. Under the cover of night, they swam across. Border guards patrolled these areas. A peculiar rule existed then. Refugees reaching urban areas could stay. Those caught in the countryside faced deportation.
At the end of the main road lies Luk Keng. It is a short drive from the restricted border area. Cyclists and hikers gather at informal eateries. Walls display visitor photos.
Venture beyond the main road. You’ll find village houses mostly abandoned. Red paper blessings still adorn some doors. A few homes show signs of life. Air conditioning units hum. Potted plants add color. Laundry dries in the sun.
A fenced enclosure serves as a sitting-out area. A children’s playground sits nearby. Brand new spring riders stand ready. But these days, children are scarce in the village.
Many villagers have left. They emigrated to other countries like the UK, America, and Australia.
Can you see the potential in Lung Ngan Kok? Its appeal lies in its quiet respite among mangroves and fishponds. Restoring these traditional houses could attract residents. However, commuting to the city poses a challenge. It takes over an hour to reach urban areas. Convenience is paramount for most Hong Kongers.
Lung Ngan Kok remains a place seemingly untouched. It is a testament to a different pace of life. It offers peace away from the bustling city.