Off the shore of Hong Kong’s north-easternmost corner lies Kat O, an island of fishing villages with a little-known history. Deserted under a decree during the Ming dynasty, it was re-inhabited by Hakka settlers in the 1660’s. Historically, the island served as an important resting stop for boats travelling between Hong Kong and the mainland.
Also known as ‘Crooked Island’, this quiet corner on the edge of Hong Kong offers an eclectic mix of abandoned buildings and stores peddling traditional eats.
Local stores offer traditional Chinese sweets and tea with ocean views.
Quirky revamped houses and dilapidated buildings from the 1950’s give the island its unique architecture.
Some buildings still bear signs of former life.
An ancestral altar is all that remains of this empty home.
Kat O is accessible via Kaito Ferry Services from Ma Liu Shui Pier Landing No. 3, near The Chinese University of Hong Kong. The Ferry journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.
