Before 1688 a village existed. It was called Ting Kai. Ting Kok Village is its current name. It sits on Plover Cove’s northern shore. West of Tai Mei Tuk it rests peacefully. Tai Po District claims it administratively.
Ting Kok Village holds a rich history. Originally a Punti village it boasts multiple surnames. It wasn’t always called Ting Kok. The name Ting Kai predates its current one. This charming village was also more than just a home to Punti people. It was strategically important. It acted as a transit point. Missionaries used it to reach mainland China. San On’s Roman Catholic mission thrived here in the 19th century. Nineteen villagers became the first local Catholics. The Mo Tai Temple stands as a testament to this time. Built before 1785 it’s a Grade III historic building. It’s dedicated to Kwan Tai also known as Mo Tai. More than ten ancestral halls stand proudly within the village. Many halls have been modernized over time. The Lee Ancestral Hall is one example. It was built in the late 19th century. Its history reflects the diverse community that has called Ting Kok Village home.
The village’s significance extends beyond its history. Seven hectares of mangroves thrive nearby. They are home to a large population of Lumnitzera racemosa. It is a rare sight in Hong Kong. This unique ecosystem is protected. It’s a Site of Special Scientific Interest declared in 1985. A part of Ting Kok Village even lies within Pat Sin Leng Country Park. The natural beauty of Ting Kok Village and its rich history make it a treasure of Hong Kong. Its past and present intertwine creating a captivating story waiting to be discovered.