Built in 1488, the Kwan Tai Temple (dedicated to the Chinese god of war) is the oldest temple in the Tai O fishing village.
Wander inside the temple, and you may see devotees burn incense and pray for prosperous fishing and farming harvests.
Kwan Tai Temple, Tai O
Located on Lantau, Hong Kong’s largest island, Tai O is famous for its simple wooden houses built on stilts over creeks.
The villagers (who get around on rusty bicycles) have lived for generations in stilt houses above these tidal flats.
The houses are inter-connected so you can walk on board planks from house to house.
While the local people traditionally relied on fishing for their livelihood, today they’re more likely to be seen selling salted fish and shrimp paste, displayed in baskets, to tourists strolling the streets.
Tai O: One of the best places to visit in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is full of delightful surprises.
We were totally amazed to discover that there’s some fabulous hiking on Lantau Island. Who knew Hong Kong had so many forests, parks and hiking trails!
On one visit to Hong Kong, we hiked on Lantau Island to Tai O. And we can tell you that hiking to Tai O and visiting the stilt village is one of the best things to do in Hong Kong!
We loved strolling about, people watching, soaking up the colorful scenery – and enjoying a simple but delicious seafood lunch.
Tai O is a fascinating trip back in time.
And the Kwan Tai Temple, stilt houses and other sights make it a photographer’s dream.
Kwan Tai Temple, Hong Kong:
158 Hai Tan Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon
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Photo credits: 1, 2, 5 © Janice and George Mucalov, SandInMySuitcase
About the authors
Luxury travel journalists and SATW, NATJA and TMAC “Best Travel Blog” award winners, Janice and George Mucalov are the publishers of Sand In My Suitcase. Between them, they’ve traveled to all 7 continents. See About.
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Michele Peterson
Monday 28th of April 2014
Wow, how great to see a post about Tai-o! I stopped there around 10 years ago and thought it was a ramshackle but charming spot. While there I met a mask maker who carved masks from the roots of bamboo and wonder if he is still there. The mask was quite the work of art and something I still cherish after all these years. Judging from your photos it looks much the same -- a very authentic place!
Irene S. Levine
Friday 25th of April 2014
Looks like a lovely village to visit~