Contemplate this: Once upon a time, reaching Tsuen Wan from Tsing Yi Hui meant a one-hour rowing boat trip. This gives you a sense of how much has changed around here.
Welcome to Tsing Yi Hui. It was once the heart of Tsing Yi Island. Many knew it simply as Tsing Yi Main Street.
In Cantonese, the term “hui” signifies a periodic market. People gathered here every nine to ten days. Yet, stalls and shops operated daily. This might explain why some called it Main Street.
Imagine life before bridges. Residents relied solely on the sea for transport. Taking a sampan to Tsuen Wan was common. In the 1980s, the Hongkong and Yaumati Ferry began services to Tsuen Wan Pier. The ferry even extended to Central, Victoria. However, this service ended in 2000.
The completion of the Tsing Yi Bridge changed everything. Roads connected Tsing Yi to other towns. Kowloon Motor Bus introduced bus routes to Tsuen Wan and Mei Foo.
The demolition of Tsing Yi Market led to significant changes. Most shops relocated to Chung Mei and Lo Uk. These re-sited villages are near Sheung Ko Tan. Shops opened on the ground floors of houses. They created a new market. This informal Chung Mei Market was still bustling in 2006. It was especially busy every early morning.
Tsing Yi Island has a rich history. In the early days, Tsing Yi’s name meant green clothes. But it actually came from a fish. This fish was once abundant in the nearby waters. The island has transformed from a fishing and farming community to a modern residential and industrial hub.
Today, Tsing Yi is a vibrant part of Hong Kong. It has well-developed transport links. These include eight bridges. Tsing Yi also has extensive public amenities. It is a far cry from the isolated island it once was. The spirit of Tsing Yi Hui lives on. It connects the past with the present. It reminds us of the island’s humble beginnings and remarkable transformation.