Gazing up at the Hok Tau Statue, have you ever wondered about its significance? This remarkable artwork isn’t just a statue. It’s a symbol deeply intertwined with the cultural heritage of Shatoujiao, a Hakka village in Yantian District. The Hok Tau Statue, also known as the Fish Lantern Dance statue, represents a tradition over 300 years old. The Wu clan, the original inhabitants of Shalanxia Village, were fishermen who created a unique dance mimicking the movements of fish. This dance, performed during festivals, was a prayer for safe journeys and family reunions. In the Hakka dialect, “fish” and “Wu” sound similar, and so the Wu Lantern Dance evolved into the Fish Lantern Dance. The Hok Tau Statue beautifully captures the spirit of this dance. It freezes a moment of vibrant movement and tradition, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the Hakka people. In 2008, the Shatoujiao Fish Lantern Dance achieved national recognition, becoming a listed intangible cultural heritage. Its fame spread beyond China, reaching audiences in Southeast Asia and Australia, showcasing the unique cultural heritage of Shenzhen. The Hok Tau Statue serves as a powerful reminder of this journey. It stands as a testament to the enduring traditions of the Hakka people, a vibrant thread in the story of Shenzhen’s cultural heritage.
Sai Wan Shan
Considering a hike today? Sai Wan Shan is calling us. Sai Wan Shan is a hill within Sai Kung East