[2024 Hong Kong Attraction] Travel Guide for Tai O (Updated Nov)

Hong Kong's 'Cat Island': A Journey Through the Water Village of Tai O

Tai O, a fishing village located in the western part of Hong Kong, is renowned for its unique stilt houses and natural scenery, making it a captivating travel destination. Here, you can explore Hong Kong's 'Cat Island,' enjoy the scenery, and savor delicious food, making your trip full of surprises. ✨The Charm of Cat Island: Due to the large number of adorable stray cats in Tai O, I call it Hong Kong's Cat Island. These cats leisurely roam around the village, attracting countless tourists to take photos and interact with them. ✨Tiger Hill Scenery: Tiger Hill is not only a great place for hiking (easy to climb) but also an ideal spot to experience the grandeur and tranquility of nature. Whether you seek adventure or peace, Tiger Hill can meet your needs. ✨Culture of Stilt Houses: The stilt houses of Tai O are a cultural heritage of Hong Kong. Visitors can take a small boat to closely observe these unique structures and learn about the local fishermen's way of life. Tai O is not only a picturesque village perfect for photography but also an ideal place to experience local Hong Kong culture and cuisine. Whether interacting with adorable cats, enjoying the scenery, or savoring delicious food, this place will make your trip unforgettable.

Travel Itinerary for Lantau Island - This One Article is Enough

If you are going to Lantau Island, you should definitely visit Tai O. After all, the cost-effectiveness of Tai O Fishing Village is very high. For fifty dollars, you can go out to sea for an hour, and if you're lucky, you might see dolphins. My experience was: 1. Take the cable car up to Lantau Island, 2. First visit Po Lin Monastery, watch the documentary about the construction of the Big Buddha, eat Po Lin Monastery's desserts, and take countless photos of lotus flowers, 3. Then climb the Big Buddha and visit the facilities inside the Big Buddha. Walk to the Heart Sutra Stele, 4. Then return to the foot of the Big Buddha, take bus No. 21 to Tai O, stroll around the fishing village, and take a speedboat to try your luck at seeing dolphins. 5. After that, take bus No. 21 back to the foot of the Big Buddha, and then take the Ngong Ping cable car down the mountain. Special Note: There is a free tourist office at Ngong Ping Station that takes visitors to see the local plants of Hong Kong Island and the Heart Sutra Stele. The guides there organize walking tours to the Heart Sutra Stele every one or two hours. The 2 PM tour is in English, and the other tours are in Cantonese. I originally wanted to join the 2 PM English tour. However, the guide was worried that if I returned at 3 PM, I wouldn't be able to make it back to take the cable car (because the bus from Tai O to Ngong Ping ends early), so they suggested I join an earlier Cantonese tour. This made my later schedule a bit rushed. So, I suggest you arrive at Ngong Ping earlier. The bus schedule from Ngong Ping to Tai O and back is clearly shown in the photos I took. Refer to the times in the photos for your planning! Important things need to be said three times! This schedule is accurate! I personally asked the bus driver. Don't doubt it! Previously, whether I asked the guide at the Heart Sutra Stele or the entire tourist service center at Ngong Ping Station, none of the staff knew the accurate information, and they even gave me the wrong time for the last bus from Tai O to Ngong Ping. Don't trust them! Just look at the photos I took. Of course, at that time, because I bought a round-trip cable car ticket, I felt it would be a pity not to take the cable car down the mountain. After all, the scenery along the way is super amazing, but the weather on Hong Kong Island often changes suddenly in summer. When I returned, there was strong wind and heavy rain, and I almost had to take the bus down the mountain. Even after the rain stopped, the windows of the cable car fogged up, and I couldn't see anything outside. So, I think it's better to buy a one-way cable car ticket up the mountain. Then, after having fun in Tai O, take the bus directly back to Hong Kong Island from Tai O.

Farewell Hong Kong | Three-day in-depth experience of life in Hong Kong

| Three-day in-depth experience of life in Hong Kong. 🇭🇰Long time no see, Hong Kong, it's really fun! I believe it won't be long before I can go again‼️ - 👇🏻Here is the three-day travel guide for your reference Day 1⃣️: ☀️In the morning, arrive at Tsim Sha Tsui, where you can visit the Hong Kong Museum of History to understand the history and culture of Hong Kong. The museum has a vast collection and exquisite exhibits, suitable for friends who like history and culture. 🕛At noon, why not visit the Mei Hua Restaurant to taste authentic Hong Kong cuisine, which will definitely satisfy your taste buds. 🌇In the afternoon, head to the Tin Hau Temple in Central to pray for good fortune. The architectural structure is magnificent, and the gold-leaf inlaid ceilings and painted decorations in the corridor offer a refreshing experience. 🌃In the evening, enjoy the night view on the Victoria Harbour waterfront, and take in the beauty of the Victoria Harbour fireworks, which will definitely dazzle you. - Day 2⃣️: ☀️In the morning, head to Tai O and you will see the gigantic Tian Tan Buddha, a spectacular sight that is one of the most magnificent in Hong Kong. 🕛At noon, taste various Hong Kong snacks in the Temple Street or Mong Kok area of the New Territories, and experience the lifestyle of Hong Kong people firsthand. 🌇In the afternoon, visit the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, where you can admire the world's tallest wind tunnel laboratory and understand the advanced technological development of Hong Kong. 🌃In the evening, shop and taste street food in Causeway Bay or the Wan Chai night market. If time permits, you can also stroll around and do some shopping. - Day 3⃣️: ☀️In the morning, explore the Times Square Shopping Centre in Causeway Bay to experience the prosperity and modernization of Hong Kong, and you may find clothes and styles you like! 🕛At noon, head to Wing On Restaurant to taste Hong Kong-style tea restaurant cuisine, with a special recommendation for the taste of the tea restaurant, which you definitely should not miss. 🌇In the afternoon, take a bus to the Lantau Island area of Hong Kong to visit Hong Kong Disneyland and fulfill your childhood dreams. This place is definitely a favorite for everyone. 🌃In the evening, return to the city center and enjoy Hong Kong's signature cocktails or beer in Central or other bustling nightlife areas, experiencing the unique nightlife of Hong Kong.

Little Venice in Hong Kong

#hiddengems Tai O fishing village in Lantau Island is Hong Kong’s version of Venice, as the houses and shops are built on stilts in the water, and there is a boat ride that brings visitors along the water inlet lined on both sides. Some highlights include the market street with shops selling local delicacies such as dried seafood and snacks including the giant fish ball and donut. The boat ride was also something to do as you can really see the houses on stilts and they brought us further out into the sea to try our luck to find pink dolphins. At least half a day should be given to explore this peaceful gem away from the usual city life, and it is accessible by bus.

The Traditional Charm in HK!🇭🇰

#timetotravel Visiting Tai O Fishing Village was like stepping into a picturesque postcard, immersing me in the authentic charm of Hong Kong's traditional way of life. The villagers, known for their resilience and fishing expertise, welcomed me with warm smiles, creating a sense of community and authenticity. Exploring the local market was a feast for the senses. The fragrant aroma of freshly caught seafood filled the air as vendors displayed an impressive array of dried fish, shrimp paste, and other culinary delights. The best part about exploring Tai O Fishing Village is that there is no entrance fee. Visitors are free to roam the village, mingle with the friendly locals, and soak in the authentic atmosphere without any financial constraints. How to get here: I took the MTR (subway) to Tung Chung Station, and from there, I hopped on Bus 11 to Tai O. #mytripvlog #tripblazers #hk

Pink dolphins are spotted here!

Nestled on the western coast of Lantau Island, Tai O is a charming fishing village that offers a serene escape from the bustling city life of Hong Kong. Known as the "Venice of Hong Kong," this hidden gem is a treasure trove of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and authentic local experiences. One of the main attractions of Tai O is its stilt houses, which are a unique architectural feature of the village. These traditional houses are built on stilts above the water, creating a picturesque scene that is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll along the narrow alleyways and wooden bridges, and immerse yourself in the rustic charm of this traditional fishing community. Don't forget to explore the lively Tai O Market, where you can sample freshly caught seafood and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to try the famous Tai O shrimp paste, a traditional condiment that is a staple in many local dishes. Tai O is also home to the unique pink dolphins, known as the Chinese white dolphins. Join a dolphin-watching tour and witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.

Venice of Hong Kong

#hongkongtrip Tai-O on Lantau island, Hong Kong is famous for its stilt house built right over the waterways, the unique scenic feature to be known as Venice in the East. It is also renowned for traditional salted dried seafood such as fish, shrimp paste and egg yolks. Others from sea such as diverse types of seashells. A good place to catch a glimpse of Pink Dolphins if lucky, also spectacular sunset. #taiofishingvillage #本地遊 #mytripvlog #tripblazers #celebratewithtrip #passionpassport #yuppijeinhk2017

Tai O, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

As a photographer, Tai O Fish village is one of the most picturesque fish port with street foods and seafoods being sold around the port. I would really love to go back and spend a week in this place. Fu Shan viewing point offers u one of the best sunset view in Hong Kong. Quick route is taking 40mins bus from Tung Chung town or Mui Wo Terminal. Somebody like hiring as started from Shek Pik Reservoir, this scenic route almost takes 3 hours to Tai O.

HK Maritime Heritage Tai O Fishing Village

#wecreate Tai O Fishing Village is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the city's rich maritime heritage. Known as the "Venice of Hong Kong," this quaint fishing village is renowned for its stilt houses, bustling seafood markets, and traditional ways of life. With its picturesque charm, cultural significance, and unique experiences, Tai O Fishing Village captivates visitors and provides a window into the traditional essence of Hong Kong's fishing communities. The village has managed to retain its cultural heritage and traditional practices, offering visitors a rare opportunity to witness the authentic lifestyle of the local fishermen. As one of the few remaining fishing villages in Hong Kong, Tai O showcases the resilience and adaptability of its inhabitants, who have maintained their age-old customs, including the art of shrimp paste making, the operation of fishing boats, and the drying of salted seafood. The village serves as a valuable cultural heritage site, allowing visitors to appreciate and understand the deep-rooted maritime traditions of Hong Kong.

Little Venice in Hong Kong! Tai O 🚤

#visithongkong Is this Venice or Hong Kong? Look no further than Tai O, a charming fishing village located on the western side of Lantau Island! You can take a hike or a ferry from Tung Chung to Tai O, and you'll be greeted by stilt houses! There are some cute narrow streets and alleys, and don't forget to sample the famous local delicacy, shrimp paste! I recommend taking a boat tour to see the Chinese white dolphins and hike to the nearby mountain for stunning views! Tai O is named as the little Venice in HK as it resembles the water village there! With its picturesque scenery and cultural richness, Tai O is a must-visit destination for ANY Hong Kong traveler!

A Nice Fishing Village

Tai O Fishing Village is a picturesque and popular tourist destination located on the western side of Lantau Island in Hong Kong. It's easy to come here, you can take the ferry from Central Pier number 6 to Mui Wo, then take bus number 1, or you can take Mrt to Tung Chung station, then take bus number 11. It attracts numerous visitors to spend their day, like boat rides along the waterway in the village, to have the opportunity to experience the most authentic flavours of Hong Kong's fishing village. Strolling around the Tai O market, savouring the delicious local delicacies being sold by the locals, watching the residents drying their seafood in the sun. Visit the most "Instagrammable" landmark, that is the rope-drawn ferry bridge of Tai O, maybe you are lucky enough to watch the bridge being raised for bigger boat to the harbour.

Beautiful Tai O

Getting There - the best way to get to Tai O is to take the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway (MTR) to Tung Chung Station and then the number 11 bus from Tung Chung Town Centre for a total journey of a little over an hour, if the connections fall into place. Attractions - nearby areas of interest include the newly-constructed Tai O Promenade, the Tai O Market, the Kawn Tai Temple, and the Nga Kok Church, as well as the signature stilt houses the Tankan people built along the Tai O River Things to do there- savour local street food, can take a boat trip and explore the Tai O Market. What it’s famous for its dried seafood, especially the traditional salted fish. Hotel: You can also stay at the Tai O Heritage Hotel, a 1902-constructed police station that was converted into its current form in 2012, featuring nine colonial-style rooms and suites and a rooftop restaurant serving local cuisine

The Venice of Hong Kong - Tai O

Tai O is a fishing town, located on the west coast of Lantau Island in Hong Kong. The village name means large inlet, referring to outlet for the waterways (Tai O Creek and Tai O River) merges as it moves through Tai O. The village is known for its stilt houses, which were built over the water to accommodate the local fishing community, as well as its dried seafood products. The building style of stilt houses date back in 19th century and Tai O is the only place that has over hundred years sedentary fishing community in Hong Kong. Hope you like this post if you found this useful. Cheers :) #urbanexplorer #hongkong

Must Eat Food at Tai O Fishing Village

Tai O is known for its premium seafood and dried barbeque squid jerky, marinated giant cuttlefish, dried mantis shrimps and pork belly with Tai O’s signature shrimp paste, fresh oysters, and scallops. My favourite is mug wort leaf cake, a Chinese dessert that is chewy and mochi-alike. Please look for the uncle selling charcoal grilled eggette, it was crispy and so tasty. There are restaurants like Tai O Banyan Tree, Wah Li Snack, Station Tofu Pudding, Black Pearl, Tai O Lookout, and cafes serving delicious food. Other popular snacks are giant fish balls, Chinese sugar doughnut, Chinese crepes, “Husband’s meaty rolls, Cantonese shrimp roe noodles, charcoal grilled skewers of seafood, and many more.

Tai O Fishing Village HK

Tai O is one of the oldest fishing villages in Hong Kong. It is the “Venice of Hong Kong”. Many locals and tourists go there to buy salted fish, shrimp paste, fish maws and other local traditional products. The houses here are very unique, some were built on the water. You can also go on a Pink Dolphin Boat Ride (if you are lucky, you can see the Chinese pink dolphins), visit the Yeung Hao Temple and enjoy the scenic view of the small village. Usually, people would like to include Tai O Fishing Village in their 1-day trip to the Giant Buddha. How To Get There: Take Bus 21 from Ngong Ping Bus Terminus to Tai O. Ambience/Facilities: 8/10 Rating: 4/5

VISIT LANTAU ISLAND: Tai O (Must-go places in Hong Kong)

Inhabited since as early as the Stone Age, Tai O is one of the most famous fishing communities in Hong Kong. For those living in Hong Kong, this is a place that you would be ashamed of having never been to as it highlights the traditional culture of Hong Kong. Tai O is home to Buddhist culture, incredible scenic spots and restaurants that you must visit to try out the fresh seafood cooked nearby. The rich culture is displayed during the large-scale Dragon Boat competition which takes place each year. Come to Tai O via bus from Mui Wo or Tung Chung, via Ferry from Tuen Mun/Tung Chung or even Water Taxi from Central (now 23% off on trip.com). Go on a nice walk to see the sights of Tai O before rewarding yourself with a delicious seafood meal. Fancy going on another walk? Go ahead! Why not go on a longer walk up the Pink Dolphin Trail or to Yi O? Then you can reward yourself with the sweet Tai O Donut from Tai O Bakery! If you visit Hong Kong, sure you can’t miss Lantau Island, but more importantly, you can’t come over to Lantau Island and not go to Tai O. #celebratewithtrip #meethongkong #hongkong #hk #hkinsider #tripcom5週年

One Day in Tai O

It has been 8 years since I have been to Tai O. The place has become cleaner, yet still preserving it's tradition and culture.

Tai O - A fishing village in Hong Kong

Tai O is one of the few remaining fishing villages in Hong Kong. It located in Lantau Island, and the most authentic example of Southern China’s old fishing life and culture. This is the best place for Hongkongers to having an escape from Hong Kong’s daily stress. It can be reach by public bus from Tung Chung bus terminus for around 1,5 hours or 40 minutes by taxi. Visiting this village, you can enjoy strolling through the small streets, catch up the sunset, tasting best seafood, or exploring boating the surroundings with affordable ticket. If lucky, you can see the dolphin when boating. #traditionalvillage #village #fishingspot #sunset #seafood

Venice in Hong Kong

Tai O is located on the western tip of Lantau island. It's a charming fishing village that has kept much of its original appeal. As such there are many waterways that run through the village, making a good snapshot of bygone Hong Kong. You can easily spend an afternoon roaming around its streets and exploring hidden corners. As it is a fishing village, you'll find a plentitude of seafood dishes and products, which also make for great souvenirs. A bit further away from the main village, you'll find a lovely promenade by the sea that leads to a pier. You'll have sweeping views of the South China Sea and on clear days even Macau. Overall a great place for an authentic fishing village as well as tasty food. Do try to go on weekdays as it does get packed on weekends! #explore #travel #taio #hongkong

This was a big contrast from central Hong Kong with the stilt houses. When you get off the boat you'll see tour boat operators waiting to grab you. Its only $30HKD (around £3) for a 20 ish minute boat tour. Its probably the best way to get a feel for the village, especially on a hot day. #givethanks

Tai O fishing village is one of trip destination in Hong Kong. It was also known as the Venice of Hong Kong. I had a trip to visit it once. There was stilt houses and some turned into just like a private heritage museum. On the way to the village by boat, I was lucky to see the pink dolphins. At the end of the trip, you could buy home industry product such as salted fish and dried orange.

The beautiful fishing village of Tai’O is a great place to kick back and relax, compared to the busy, fast pace of Hong Kong Island. Within a couple of hours of Hong Kong airport and Hong Kong Island, its a great spot for a weekend getaway, a relax and an unwind. lots of good food places, nice promenades to stroll along in the evening, and lush mountains to separate you from the rest of the world.

Keeping the promise of change in the sea. I know Tai O because of the Hong Kong TVB TV series "The Sky of Tai O". How much we loved watching Hong Kong dramas at that time! Tai O, located on Tai O Island in the western part of Lantau Island, New Territories, Hong Kong. It was once considered part of the Wanshan Islands. Tai O is the earliest developed fishing village on the island. The Tai O fishing villages are all shacks built on the water. They are divided into two places by three seas. The shacks are connected by bridges and water boardwalks. There are criss-crossing people on the water. As the fishing village of Tai O still retains its past style, it is now the most famous fishing village landscape in Hong Kong. Shack is the symbol of Tai O Fishing Village and one of Hong Kong's most unique landscapes. Tai O was once the main fishing port and garrison town in Hong Kong. It is also the focus of the fishing salt industry in the past 100 years. Since the ages, Tai O has been a gathering place for fishermen and their families. The fishermen believe that they lack a sense of security in living on plain land, so they built shacks on the shore. The densely shacks, criss-crossing waterways and bridges form the face of Tai O today.

Tai O: A Unique Fishing Village Culture in Hong Kong

Tai O is a hidden gem located in the western part of Hong Kong, featuring a unique water village landscape. The traditional stilt houses here rest on the blue waters, giving a sense of timelessness and a rich fishing village culture. The narrow, winding alleys are lined with colorful shops and food stalls offering fresh seafood and local delicacies like shrimp dumplings and fish balls. The natural scenery in Tai O is also breathtaking, with nearby wetlands and mangroves attracting various bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Additionally, the sunset views here are particularly enchanting, with the sun casting a dreamy reflection on the water. Tai O is not just a tourist destination but a place of tranquility worth savoring for every visitor.

800 LANTERNS in Hong Kong 🇭🇰

More than 800 unique hand-painted lanterns can be seen at Tai O Fishing Village during the Tai O Lantern Festival. Take a step back in time as you explore the historic village. Located hidden away at the far end of Lantau Island, Tai O Fishing Village will bring visitors a unique experience. Do not miss the boat tour which is the best way to see Tai O’s stilt houses which are built above the tidal flats of Lantau Island. Despite its small size, the village has its own market namely Tai O Market Street. There visitors will find various seafood products. In case you're wondering, Tai O is famous for its salted fish. 📌 Tai O Fishing Village, Hong Kong #chinatrip #hongkong #taio #taiofishingvillage #nature #lantau #lantauisland

Tai O Boat Trip 🚤🇭🇰 Watch the Chinese Pink Dolphin! 🐬💓

#islandtour If you are visiting Tai O village on Lantau Island, you should not miss the opportunity to take a boat trip! You can even see the pink dolphin if you are lucky enough💖 I took the 20-minute route that costed 40HKD and brought me a close-up views of Tai O general rocks, heritage hotel, the stilt houses on both sides, Tai Chung Bridge and Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge around the island. We were so lucky to see some pink dolphins jumping across the ocean at the end of our trip!!🐬🤩 The Chinese White Dolphin (adult looks pink) is an endangered species whose number have dwindled in recent decades. At its peak in 2003, there were 158 of them. Nowadays, less than 30 are left. In most of time, they do not show up, especially on burning days. To see them, All you need is luck. #hongkongtravelguide #hongkong #100waysoftravel

Tai O's 'Water Village Charm'

Tai O is a famous fishing village in Hong Kong, often referred to as the 'Venice of Hong Kong'. It's a great place for a relaxing getaway. Located on Lantau Island, it can be reached directly by ferry from the city or by taking bus number 11 from Tung Chung. The most famous feature of Tai O is its stilt houses, which showcase the local characteristics and are unique to Hong Kong. Nowadays, there are very few stilt houses left, but you can still see the water village lifestyle. Unlike the bustling city center of Hong Kong, Tai O has no high-rise buildings or busy commercial areas. It offers a serene and simple atmosphere, making it a quaint fishing village with beautiful scenery. Besides the famous stilt houses, Tai O has many other attractions worth visiting. You can leisurely explore the traditional village, take a boat ride to see the boat houses, and experience the fishing village lifestyle. Tai O also offers a variety of local delicacies, especially seafood and fish sauces. Time seems to slow down here, offering a taste of Hong Kong that is completely different from the city. The locals are very friendly, making it a great place to spend half a day strolling around and breathing in the fresh air of the countryside.

Quality time with friends… 💜

Listen to advice! Go now, while you can!

Tai O Fishing Village on Lantau Island in Hong Kong is truly a world apart! Strolling through Tai O Fishing Village, you'll find a stark contrast to the steel jungle of Central Hong Kong. The local customs are simple and there are many snacks with very distinct characteristics. It's also lucky to encounter dragon boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival! 🌟Highlights: An independent sea village built on stilts, with each house next to the water and every household accessible by boat. 🚉Transport tips: Take the MTR to Tung Chung, the last stop on the Tung Chung Line, and then take a bus directly there. You can also take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Ngong Ping Market and then take bus route 21 to Tai O Fishing Village. 👍Most recommended: Take a boat tour of Tai O, go out to sea to see dolphins, and view the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge. ⏳Visiting time: 3-4h ✅Must experience: Try the sugar doughnuts, other delicacies, and the ice cream by the bridge is also great. Boat ride ❤Recommended reason: Very distinctive, combining Nanyang and Yue-Min styles 📍Detailed address: Tai O 🕙Business hours: The last bus back is usually between 5-6 pm, remember to plan your return trip. It is not recommended to stay overnight in Tai O

very nice place