Old Wai

Old Wai

Old Wai is located in Lung Yeuk Tau, Fanling, New Territories, Hong Kong. It is a walled village inhabited by the Tang Clan of Lung Yeuk Tau. The entrance gate and walls of Old Wai were designated as declared monuments of Hong Kong on January 31, 1997. Since then, the site has gradually attracted an increasing number of visitors. The Tang Clan of Lung Yeuk Tau migrated from Kam Tin to Lung Yeuk Tau in the 14th century and successively built the “Five Wais and Six Tsuens.” Although the exact construction date of Old Wai is unknown, it is believed to be the earliest among the Five Wais.

Built on a small hill, Old Wai is surrounded by walls, with houses arranged neatly inside. Its unique defensive feature is the elevated platforms built at the center of each of the four walls, used for surveillance and theft prevention. The entrance gate is narrow, and there is a well inside. In case of bandit attacks, the gate could be closed for protection while still ensuring a sufficient water supply. Originally, the gate faced north, but for feng shui reasons, it was rebuilt to face east. The foundation is raised above ground level, and there are stone steps in front of the gate for easy access. The couplet at the entrance reads, “A lofty gate welcomes auspicious air; an ancient wai preserves simple virtue.” Though Old Wai has undergone multiple renovations, its wall structure and village layout remain largely intact.

Lo Wai, Lung Yeuk Tau

Must-visit reason: The earliest of the Five Wais in Hong Kong’s New Territories