Tai O Fishing Village: A Cultural Treasure on Your Lantau Tour

Tucked away on the western edge of Lantau Island lies Tai O Fishing Village, a place where time seems to stand still. This quiet, humble village is one of the last remaining communities in Hong Kong that still reflects the city's traditional fishing heritage. A visit to Tai O is a chance to witness a slower pace of life, where locals still dry seafood by hand, boats glide gently through narrow canals, and traditional wooden stilt houses rise gracefully above the water.

Traditional stilt houses line the waterfront of Tai O, reflecting the village’s enduring fishing heritage.

Often called the “Venice of Hong Kong,” Tai O is home to the Tanka people, an indigenous fishing community that has lived on the water for generations. The village is famous for its stilt houses, or pang uk, which were built to adapt to the tidal changes and the daily rhythms of sea life. As you walk through its narrow lanes, you’ll pass small family-run shops selling dried seafood, shrimp paste, and handmade snacks that carry the taste and history of old Hong Kong.

The atmosphere is both peaceful and captivating. Wooden homes weathered by sun and sea tell stories of resilience, while the surrounding mountains and waterways create a picturesque backdrop for photography and reflection. There’s also a chance to spot the elusive pink dolphins in nearby waters, a rare and magical sight that reminds visitors of the natural beauty still thriving around Hong Kong.

No trip to Tai O is complete without sampling its local specialties. The air is rich with the scent of grilled cuttlefish and fresh shrimp paste—two of the village’s most iconic products. Make sure to try the silky tofu pudding, often served chilled, which offers a light and comforting treat after a walk around the village.

Though Tai O feels like a remote escape, it's easily accessible and often included as a highlight in a Lantau tour. Guests who book a tour with Hello! Hong Kong will have the opportunity to explore Tai O alongside other iconic sights like the Big Buddha and Ngong Ping. It’s a wonderful way to combine nature, history, and culture all in one unforgettable day.

Tai O is not just a destination—it’s a living museum, a peaceful village, and a window into Hong Kong’s rich and layered past. For those seeking meaningful travel experiences and a deeper connection to local life, Tai O is a must-visit.