Hidden neighbourhoods to explore in the New Territories

Lau Fau Shan is a small fishing village on Deep Bay known for its spectacular sunset views and long-standing history of cultivating fresh oysters.

How to get there: Take the 34A minibus from Tin Shui Wai MTR station Exit B and get off at the final stop (Lau Fau Shan Interchange). The ride will take approximately 10 minutes.

Things to do: Due to its proximity to the Pearl River Delta and high salt content, the waters surrounding the area were once a prime location for farming oysters. However, due to marine pollution and the lack of farmers to carry on this traditional activity, the village’s oyster farming industry has declined over the years. Nonetheless, Lau Fau Shan is still a fascinating sleepy town where you can see endless rows of oysters drying on racks and witness Hong Kong’s remaining oyster farmers hard at work on the mudflats. 

While in the area, drop by and purchase products from Yu Hing Oyster Sauce Co Ltd, a business in Lau Fau Shan since the 1950s. The company uses traditional methods to produce their oyster sauce by taking their sun-dried oysters and stewing them over low heat. However, due to increasing pollution in the surrounding area, the brand’s oyster sauce is now produced outside the fishing village.

Myth house｜Photograph: Hiko Li

Where to eat and drink: Featured in an episode of Viu TV’s ‘Free Riders’, French fusion restaurant Myth House flaunts an Insta-worthy appearance. Aside from its building with an intricate Grecian goddess painting that immediately catches your eye, Myth House’s astroturf, lawn chairs, and caravan display provide a welcoming atmosphere that will almost make you forget that you’re in Hong Kong. Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, you can find restaurants like Bong Kee and Siu Tao Yuen along the main streets of Lau Fau Shan.

Tip: If you bring your own seafood from nearby fishmongers, most restaurants will prepare them for you in your preferred dish or as a recommended recipe from the venue.   

In comparison to other neighbourhoods in the northwest parts of Hong Kong, Kam Tim offers a slower city life. But the steady influx of indie stores and hipster cafes opening over the last few years and the increasing amount of visitors breathes new life into the area. 

How to get there: Take a 10 to 15 minutes walk from Kam Sheung Road MTR station to reach Kam Tin's city centre.

Kam Tin Tree House

Things to do: Once said to be a village study hall, the Kam Tin Tree House is one of the area's famous sights. With banyan vines overlapping and creating a rigid formation, this wooden structure is a marvel of nature and definitely worth checking out.   

Homecoming｜Photograph: Hiko Li

Where to eat and drink: Offering a space for individuals to connect, Homecoming is a community-friendly spot that has everything from hand-poured coffees and books to works by local artists. Head to the terrace and rooftop to enjoy a panoramic view of Kam Tin. Just around the corner, you'll find Japanese-style café CoHee serving artisan coffee in Japanese pottery and dainty cups.  

Tip: Dating back to the Song Dynasty, the Tang clan has made Kam Tin their home by establishing many villages. During festive seasons, the area is bustling with energy, with villagers gathering to enjoy poon choi and customs like lion dancing to worship ancestors. If you want to join in on the fun, stop by Kam Tim during the Lantern Festival or Hung Shing Festival.

Originally a small sleepy town, Sheung Shui began developing in the 1970s to 80s into the district we know today. With a multitude of food options around, you can spend a whole day chowing down on scrumptious bites across the neighbourhood. 

How to get there: Walk for approximately seven minutes from Sheung Shui MTR station to get to Shek Wu Hui. 

Hau Mei Fung Ancestral Hall｜Photograph: Courtesy Information Service Department

Things to do: Drop by the Hau Mei Fung Ancestral Hall, a declared monument since 2019. Originally built to commemorate Hau Jui-fei, a student of the Imperial Academy, the building is now primarily used to worship ancestors.

Chun Yuen Noodles Shop's beef brisket noodles｜Photograph: Iris Lo

Where to eat and drink: Enjoy servings of piping hot bowls of noodles with fried pork chop at Ming Kee, a small diner located in Shek Wu Hui Market. But don't leave the neighbourhood without trying Guong Shing Ice Cafe's ‘four treasures’ – red bean ice, egg sandwich, beef macaroni, and milk tea. For other dishes, you’ll find their menu written on boards and mirrors hung on the walls around the shop.

Tips: With the mainland borders closed for the past two years, the usual Sheung Shui crowds have reduced, so it's the perfect time to head into the district for a day trip to wander around.