Tourists are visiting Kuk Po, a 300-year-old seaside village in Hong Kong, drawn by its abandoned mansions, reed fields, and tranquil surroundings. Located in the northern Sha Tau Kok neighborhood, the village offers a contrast to the city’s fast-paced urban life.

Historically home to Hakka people, Kuk Po was largely abandoned in recent decades as residents moved to urban areas. Now, relaxed entry restrictions to Sha Tau Kok allow easier access to Kuk Po via speedboat, attracting more visitors.

On a recent weekend, the village saw an influx of tourists exploring its scenic valleys and cultural history. The Hakka, known for their migratory history, transformed Kuk Po into a market town before urbanization led to its decline in the 1960s.

The Hong Kong government aims to promote eco-tourism in rural areas like Kuk Po as part of a broader strategy outlined in a recent tourism policy blueprint, balancing conservation with economic benefits.