“Ever heard of a valley where cattle once grazed freely?” That place is Ngau Kwu Wan. It translates literally to “cattle pasture valley”. Today we are standing in a place steeped in history. Ngau Kwu Wan is located on Lantau Island. It sits near Tai Ho Wan. This bay graces the northern shore of Lantau Island. Ngau Kwu Wan lies northeast of Tung Chung.
Let’s delve into the past. Ngau Kwu Wan is a single-surname village. The Lam family calls this place home. The Lams came from Putian in Fujian province. They first moved to Chayuan in Dongguan Guangdong province. A branch of the family then journeyed to Ngau Kwu Wan. This happened during the reign of the Qianlong Emperor. That was between 1736 and 1796. Imagine the journey they undertook.
Historically Ngau Kwu Wan was part of the San Heung community. This community included Pak Mong, Ngau Kwu Long, and Tai Ho villages. These villages were closely knit. They shared resources and supported each other.
Ngau Kwu Wan is accessible via the Hong Kong Olympic Trail. This trail stretches 5.6 km. It connects Pak Mong to Mui Wo. It opened to celebrate Hong Kong’s hosting the equestrian events in the 2008 Olympics. Think of the athletes and horses that once graced this area. There is no road access to the village. It is only accessible by foot.
The Lam Ancestral Hall stands as a testament to the village’s heritage. This hall is actually divided into two parts. There is the Lam Ancestral Hall East and West. They serve as reminders of the Lam family’s legacy. The Antiquities Advisory Board recognizes their historical value.
Though times have changed, Ngau Kwu Wan retains its charm. It is a place where history and nature intertwine. As you explore Ngau Kwu Wan think about the cattle that once roamed freely here. Think about the Lam family who built their home here. They shaped this village into what it is today. Ngau Kwu Wan is more than just a place. It’s a story etched into the landscape.