Exploring Sai Kung’s Floating Fishing Village
A Glimpse into Hong Kong’s Maritime Heritage
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Hong Kong, Sai Kung is often referred to as the city’s “back garden.” Known for its pristine beaches, lush hiking trails, and seafood delights, this charming coastal town offers a unique window into Hong Kong’s maritime culture. Among its many attractions, the floating fishing village stands out as a reminder of the city’s deep-rooted connection to the sea.
Here, life flows at a pace far removed from the hustle and bustle of Central, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the simpler, more traditional way of life that has sustained Hong Kong’s fishing communities for generations.
How to Get to Sai Kung
Sai Kung is easily accessible from the city. Simply take the MTR to Choi Hung Station (Kwun Tong Line) and board a green minibus (#1A) to Sai Kung town. The 20-minute ride offers glimpses of the countryside, preparing you for the slower, more relaxed vibe that awaits.
Once you arrive in Sai Kung town, the waterfront promenade is just a short walk away. It’s here that you’ll find the floating fishing village and an array of seafood restaurants, fishing boats, and local markets.
A Walk Along the Waterfront
The Sai Kung waterfront is where the charm of the town truly begins to unfold. Brightly colored fishing boats bob gently in the harbor, while vendors on sampans (small traditional boats) sell fresh seafood directly from their vessels. The scene is a vibrant mix of tradition and commerce, where locals and visitors alike haggle over prawns, crabs, and fish.
Take your time here—watch the fishermen skillfully empty their nets, or interact with the boat vendors to learn more about their daily lives. These boat people, part of the Tanka community, have been living on the water for centuries, preserving a way of life that has all but disappeared in other parts of Hong Kong.
The Floating Fishing Village
To truly experience the floating fishing village, consider hiring a small boat, or “kai-to,” from the pier. These inexpensive rides take you out to the anchored fishing boats and floating fish farms scattered across the harbor.
The Floating Homes
The boats themselves are fascinating—tiny, self-contained worlds where families live, work, and sleep. Many of these floating homes are equipped with everything from cooking stoves to small shrines. Despite their modesty, there’s a sense of pride and resilience that shines through in the way these boats are maintained.
Fish Farms
The floating fish farms are another highlight. These platforms, anchored in the calm waters of the harbor, are used to cultivate live seafood. You’ll often see tanks filled with grouper, snapper, and other species that are destined for local restaurants. Some farms even allow visitors to walk on their wooden platforms for a closer look at the fish and the farming process.
A Culinary Experience Like No Other
No visit to Sai Kung is complete without indulging in its world-renowned seafood. After exploring the floating village, head back to the promenade, where a row of open-air seafood restaurants awaits.
Here’s how it works:
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Pick Your Seafood
Many restaurants allow you to choose live seafood from their tanks. Whether it’s lobster, crab, scallops, or fish, the options are endless. -
Tell Them How You Want It Cooked
The chefs prepare your selection in a variety of styles—steamed with garlic, stir-fried with black bean sauce, or deep-fried for that irresistible crunch. -
Savor the Freshness
The seafood here is as fresh as it gets, often caught just hours before it lands on your plate. Pair your meal with a glass of white wine or Chinese tea for the perfect ending to your Sai Kung adventure.
Why Visit the Floating Fishing Village?
Sai Kung’s floating fishing village isn’t just a tourist attraction—it’s a living testament to Hong Kong’s maritime heritage. At a time when urbanization and modernization threaten to erase traditional ways of life, places like this serve as a poignant reminder of the city’s roots.
For mature travelers looking to go beyond the usual skyscrapers and shopping malls, Sai Kung offers something deeper: an authentic cultural experience that connects you with the rhythms of the sea and the resilience of the people who call it home.
Best Tips for Visiting
- Visit Early: Morning is the best time to visit the fishing village, as the vendors are most active, and the seafood is freshest.
- Bring Cash: Many vendors and small boat operators don’t accept credit cards.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The promenade and boat docks can be slippery.
- Respect the Community: The floating village is home to real people, so avoid being intrusive or overly disruptive.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the floating fishing village of Sai Kung is like stepping into a different world—a world where life is intimately tied to the sea and traditions are passed down through generations. It’s a rare chance to witness a side of Hong Kong that few travelers ever see, one that’s rich in history, culture, and human connection.
So, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, make time for Sai Kung. It’s a journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the city and its people—and, of course, a belly full of some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste.