Quartz-like rocks shimmering under the Hong Kong sun; welcome to Diamond Hill. Diamond Hill sits in Kowloon. It is an area steeped in history. But, surprisingly, it has nothing to do with actual diamonds.
The name Diamond Hill is a story of Cantonese sounds and English interpretation. In Cantonese, it is called “Jyun Sehk Saan”. “Jyun Sehk” can mean either “rock digging” or “diamond”. This led to its embellished English name. But don’t let the name fool you. There were no diamond mines.
Diamond Hill’s story goes back to the 18th century. Chu Yan Fung settled here and established Tai Hom Village. He sought refuge from tigers, wolves, and pirates. Chu was the youngest of eight sons. His family migrated from Hong Kong Island.
Let’s jump ahead to 1947. Twenty-two stone houses were built using local granite. These houses formed “Daguan Gardens”. This area became home to Asian film stars. Studios like “Daguan Film Studio” and “Yung Hwa Studios” thrived nearby. Only stone house No. 4 still stands. It is a Grade III historical building.
Diamond Hill has a more recent history, too. In the 1950s and 60s, it transformed into a squatter settlement. Around 50,000 people called it home. Pathologist Feng Chi-sun captured this era in his memoir. It tells a story of slumlords and refugees carving out a life. The last squatter homes vanished in 2000.
Interestingly, Diamond Hill was once considered one of Hong Kong’s poorest areas. Today, it is a vibrant mix. Kindergartens thrive. Grandparents relax in Hammer Hill park. Shoppers chat in Cantonese. Commuters stream into modern towers.
The Chi Lin Nunnery stands as a testament to Tang-dynasty architecture. Despite urban development, it retains its charm.
So, as you explore Diamond Hill, remember its layers. It is a place where stone quarries became “diamonds”. It is a refuge from pirates and a home to film stars. It is a squatter village turned modern suburb. Diamond Hill is more than just a name. It is a multifaceted story etched into Hong Kong’s landscape.