About Us

As winter arrived and the year neared its end, the School of Chinese at the University of Hong Kong took advantage of the pleasant weather to organize a long-awaited outdoor retreat on Tuesday, December 5, 2023. This retreat brought together 34 members of the School from different divisions, programs, and research areas, aiming to explore the natural beauty and historical attractions of Hong Kong.

The local trip began at the Lau Shui Heung Reservoir in Pat Sin Leng Country Park, nestled in the charming Fanling area. Known as the "Mirror of the Sky," this reservoir sits between the majestic Lung Shan and Shek Au Shan. With clear skies above, the lake's surface reflected the peaceful beauty of the larch and white laminaria trees along the shore. We took photos together and walked along the lakeside, enjoying the quiet and calm scenery, far away from the busy city life.

At noon, we made our way to Lau Fau Shan in Yuen Long for a delightful seafood lunch with local flavors. After the meal, we strolled along the famous Lau Fau Shan Seafood Street. The stores on both sides displayed a variety of fresh and dried seafood, while fishermen opened oysters and dried them on the spot, catching everyone's attention. As we reached the end of the market, we arrived at a beach where we could catch a glimpse of the Shenzhen Bay Bridge hidden in the mist.

Next, we paid a visit to the Ping Shan Tang Clan Gallery cum Heritage Trail Visitors Centre. Situated atop a hill, the Centre offers a panoramic view of the Ping Shan village and occupies the former Ping Shan Police Station. The old Police Station, constructed in 1900, stands as one of the earliest pre-war police station buildings in the New Territories. In 2007, it was transformed into a museum dedicated to preserving heritage. This unique exhibition gallery represents a collaboration between the government and a local clan. By exploring the displayed artifacts and photographs provided by Tang clan members, we gained insights into the historical transformations and way of life of the Tang clan. Additionally, we caught a glimpse of the customs and culture that characterize traditional clans in the New Territories.

Later on, we stopped by the Kam Tin Mural Village (link in Chinese only). Situated in the Kam Tin region of Yuen Long, the village boasts numerous staggered mural paintings, each with unique characteristics. Since April 2018, a secondary school visual arts teacher has been leading a team of students, residents, and volunteers to create over forty pieces of artwork in different corners of the village. The project aimed to offer students the opportunity to experience the joy of outdoor painting while contributing to the community. Thanks to the support of the locals, the stunning murals have brought more vibrancy and creativity to this walled village, showcasing the collision and fusion of tradition and modernity.

As the tour came to an end, we approached the Tuen Mun entrance of the Tuen Mun-Chek Lap Kok Tunnel. We strolled between the narrow coastal dam and the vast grassy area of Ho Wo Street. The endless sea, rows of palm trees, and clear blue sky blended together, creating a magnificent and refined scenery, marking the perfect conclusion to this local day trip, which will undoubtedly remain an unforgettable memory for all of us.