Tai Kok Tau

Gazing across the serene waters, can you envision a pier stretching far into the distance? That, my friends, is the Sha Tau Kok Pier, and it’s the longest pier in all of Hong Kong. Tai Kok Tau, also known as Sha Tau Kok, sits right here at the northeastern edge of Hong Kong. It’s a place where history whispers secrets, a town that for decades remained shrouded in mystery, accessible only with a special permit. Tai Kok Tau is no longer a closed book. Since June 2022, it has gradually opened its doors, inviting curious souls like yourselves to explore its hidden depths. Tai Kok Tau is small, with only about 4,000 residents. It’s a blend of Hakka and Hoklo cultures, deeply rooted in traditions tied to the sea. While the bustling trade with mainland China has faded as Shenzhen has boomed, the spirit of Tai Kok Tau remains vibrant. Imagine standing at the end of that 280-meter pier, the Sha Tau Kok Pier. Picture the panoramic vista unfolding before you: the rolling hills of Plover Cove Country Park on one side, the distant skyline of Shenzhen on the other. As evening descends, herons and other birds alight on the blue buoys bobbing near the pier, a tranquil scene that captures the essence of Tai Kok Tau. The heart of Tai Kok Tau beats with the rhythm of its traditions. One such tradition is the Dry Dragon Boat folk dance, performed during festivals and celebrations. Hoklo residents, clad in handmade costumes, parade through the streets, mimicking the motions of paddling a dragon boat to the beat of drums. While Tai Kok Tau is often quiet, it comes alive during special occasions, like the birthday celebration of Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, drawing hundreds of people together. Tai Kok Tau also holds within it the Sha Tau Kok Story House, a heritage museum preserving the town’s history. Housed in a traditional shophouse built in 1933, the museum showcases artefacts donated by residents. Among the treasures, you’ll find seashell windows, once a hallmark of upscale village houses, their translucent sheets revealing intricate patterns under the light. As Tai Kok Tau welcomes more visitors, the Sha Tau Kok Story House continues to evolve, planning to expand and incorporate “story rooms” where descendants of shop owners can share their families’ histories. This revitalization extends beyond the museum, encouraging young entrepreneurs to establish cafes and creative businesses, further enriching the cultural tapestry of Tai Kok Tau.