Discover the alluring charm of Tsang Tai Uk (曾大屋), also known as "Tsang's Big House," an enchanting historic walled Hakka village nestled in Sha Tin, Hong Kong. With its fascinating origins dating back to the mid-19th century, this captivating site unveils a rich tapestry of Hong Kong's history, while also serving as a testament to the city's preservation efforts. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable journey to a bygone era as you traverse the quaint lanes of this unique village.

Picture this: It's the early 19th century, and sea pirates often come to the Hong Kong harbor. They try to sell Tsang Koon-Man (曾貫萬), an important government worker, 16 pots of dried salt fish. But there's a surprise - hidden in the pots are pieces of gold. Tsang uses this unexpected wealth to build a large home for his family.

The building of this grand home started in 1848 and took 20 years. The village, Tsang Tai Uk, is big, covering more than 6,000 square meters. It has three rows of houses built from large blocks of stone, and each corner is watched over by a tower. Once, a water-filled ditch called a moat surrounded the village, but it's now a grassy field and a parking lot.

During the Second World War, Tsang Tai Uk played an important role. It was a safe place for families running away from the war.

The houses in Tsang Tai Uk are interconnected by corridors and courtyards. In the past, these courtyards served as spaces for villagers to dry their harvest. Today, they are used for laundry and gardening.

Residents of Tsang Tai Uk are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors. When exploring the village, be sure to visit the ancestral hall and main hall, which houses a portrait of Tsang Man-Koon, the village founder. As you tour the village, remember to be respectful, as members of the Tsang family still reside within the complex

Tsang Tai Uk gives you a chance to see and learn about Hong Kong's rich history and culture. By visiting this village, you can understand more about the city's past and the people who have lived here. It's a place where you can feel the heartbeat of Hong Kong and make your trip truly special.