“Nga Tsin Wai is Nga Tsin Wai Village.” That’s what you’ll hear from locals in Wong Tai Sin. Today we explore the story of Nga Tsin Shan, a place deeply intertwined with Hong Kong’s history.
Nga Tsin Shan’s story is linked to the nearby Nga Tsin Wai Village. This village, also known as Hing Yau Yu Tsuen, boasts a history of over 600 years. It stood as the last walled village in urban Kowloon.
Legend says the Ng, Chan and Lee clans, followed the fugitive Song Emperor. They settled here around 1278. The village itself likely formed in the mid-14th century. Villagers built the Tin Hau Temple around 1352. They fortified the village around 1724.
Nga Tsin Wai became the head village of the “Kowloon League of Seven”. This union of villages defended against pirates and bandits. Other members included Sha Po, Ta Kwu Ling, and Ma Tau Chung. The Tin Hau Temple served as the League’s place of worship.
Imagine Nga Tsin Wai in its prime. The village covered about 0.4 hectares. Around 100 houses stood within its walls. Narrow streets and side lanes formed a rectangular layout. The Ng Clan Hall and Tin Hau Temple were central features.
However, Nga Tsin Shan’s and Nga Tsin Wai Village’s existence faced challenges. In the 1960s, demolition loomed due to urban regeneration plans. Villagers fought back, even taking their case to London’s High Court. They won and saved their village.
But, in the 1980s, developers began buying village houses. The government planned a redevelopment project. This included Nga Tsin Wai Village. By 2016, the Urban Renewal Authority acquired all properties.
The last residents left Nga Tsin Wai Village in early 2016. They faced threats of fines and imprisonment. Villagers felt the URA prioritized profit over heritage.
Today, the URA has partnered with Cheung Kong Property Holdings. They are redeveloping the site. The plan includes two high-rise towers with 750 flats. Some archaeological finds from 2018 will be incorporated.
The Entrance Gate, Ng Ancestral Hall and Tin Hau Temple are listed as Grade III historic buildings since 2014.
Nga Tsin Shan and Nga Tsin Wai Village share a story of resilience. They reflect Hong Kong’s blend of tradition and development. As we look out from Nga Tsin Shan, remember the history beneath our feet.