A bronze gong. That’s what Tung O Wan resembled centuries ago. Imagine the bay a shimmering expanse mirroring the sky. This is Tung O Wan in Causeway Bay. It was once a vibrant fishing hub. Fishermen lived on their boats. They were known as Tanga or boat people. Their lives were intimately tied to the sea.
Tung O Wan’s name literally means bronze gong bay. The shape of the bay perfectly reflected its namesake. It was a crucial part of Hong Kong’s history. Before Victoria Park existed Tung O Wan was a thriving fishing ground. The Causeway Bay Typhoon Shelter protected fishing boats from storms. It was home to these hardy seafarers. They were a unique community. Their culture is now largely forgotten. Only their distinctive cooking style remains. You can still find “Typhoon Shelter style” dishes in some restaurants.
In the 1880s the bay began to change. Land reclamation projects altered its shape. The original typhoon shelter was created in 1883. It served the fishing community. The land reclamation of 1953 drastically altered the landscape. Victoria Park was created. The typhoon shelter was moved to its current location. The Cross-Harbour Tunnel and the Central-Wan Chai Bypass were completed in later years. These projects further reshaped the bay.
Today Tung O Wan remains. It offers a quiet respite from Causeway Bay’s bustling crowds. The shelter still protects boats. It continues to serve the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club. It’s a reminder of Hong Kong’s maritime past. It’s a poignant reminder of the Tanga and their unique lives. They once called this bay home. Their legacy echoes in the dishes you can enjoy today.