【Hong Kong】City Tour · Stop 10: Tai O · The Venice of Hong Kong

Tai O is Hong Kong's only water town, often referred to as "The Venice of Hong Kong"! This place is perfect for a one-day trip and a must-visit on weekends! Fresh seafood, local specialties, and picturesque spots are all here. I've compiled the best attractions in Tai O—check them out and let's have some fun and relax together 🎉🌅

1️⃣ Tai O Long Bridge (Lover's Bridge)
A forgotten yet stunning photo spot located next to Tai O Pier! From afar, it looks like a pedestrian bridge over the sea, but it's actually a small embankment separating the ocean from the mangroves. It's recommended to visit during sunset for breathtaking photos with an amazing atmosphere! 📸🌇

2️⃣ Stilt Houses
In the past, Tai O residents lived in boat houses, with their lives revolving around the sea. Today, some fishermen still live in stilt houses, which are narrow and elongated, resembling Maldives-style vacation homes. You can walk into the inner streets and cross small wooden bridges to admire these unique structures up close—just remember to keep quiet!

3️⃣ Spotting Chinese White Dolphins 🐬
Take a small boat tour lasting about 20 minutes, costing HK$20-25. Opt for the "360 Tai O Pass" for better value, which includes cable car rides, bus tickets, boat tours, and meal vouchers! You might spot many white dolphins, and even if you don't, the experience of weaving through stilt houses is truly special!

4️⃣ Hiking and Relaxing - Tiger Hill
If you have time, consider hiking Tiger Hill, a great spot for families! The trail is fully paved, making it easy and safe to walk. At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views of the airport and watch planes take off and land—a perfect spot for photos and fresh air, totally chill!

5️⃣ Cultural Theater
Tai O Community Cultural Theater offers a genuine taste of Hong Kong! It hosts village meetings, traditional opera, and performances, showcasing a simple and slow-paced lifestyle that you'll truly appreciate.

6️⃣ Dried Seafood Street (Wing On Street)
As soon as you arrive, head to Dried Seafood Street, where locals sell dried seafood at prices lower than in the city. From dried yellow croaker to squid and mantis shrimp, there's plenty to choose from! You can even bargain at street stalls—perfect for buying souvenirs at great prices!

7️⃣ Tai O Post Office
If you can't find a special souvenir, don't worry—you can write a postcard to yourself or friends as a keepsake! Each postcard costs about HK$10. Remember to check the opening hours, as it's closed on Sundays:
Monday to Friday: 9:00am~5:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am~1:00pm

8️⃣ Tai O Cultural Workshop
Address: G/F, 54 Wing On Street, Tai O, Lantau Island
This workshop exhibits Tai O's history, geography, fishing tools, wedding attire, and more. Opened in 2001, it showcases various items for visitors to explore, promoting heritage preservation. Admission is free, and a visit takes about 15 minutes—boost your knowledge level!

9️⃣ Dining Recommendations
Feeling hungry at noon? Check out local tea restaurants, Chinese eateries, or unique cafes for delicious and affordable meals. Cafe set lunches cost around HK$70, while tea houses and restaurants offer great value for money! Recommended dish: Tai O shrimp paste fried rice—fragrant and flavorful!

🔟 Skewers & Snacks
The main street offers local specialty skewers like dried squid, mantis shrimp, and yellow croaker roe—a must-try! Don't miss the charcoal-grilled egg waffles, which often have long queues—you'll regret not trying them 😉

🚌 Transportation - How to get to Tai O?
First, take the MTR to Tung Chung Station. From Tung Chung Town Center Bus Terminal, take the New Lantau Bus No. 11 to Tai O. The bus ride from Tung Chung to Tai O takes about 50 minutes, and you'll arrive at the final stop.

Tai O offers a mix of experiences and food adventures. Just strolling along the main street and taking photos is enough to unwind for the weekend! This hidden water town in Hong Kong is a gem you shouldn't miss! 🚤🦐🔥