By: Ding
Scenes of blue skies and white clouds, ever-changing sunsets, majestic starry skies, and time-bearing shooting stars are dream subjects for many photographers. In fact, you don’t have to go far—Hong Kong also boasts many excellent photography spots. Today, we’re introducing Tai O Water Village, which can fulfill all the above in one go.
Photo by ck wong
With its simple fishing village charm, densely packed stilt houses, crisscrossing waterways, and bridges, Tai O has earned the nickname “Venice of the East.” It was once a major fishing port and military garrison town in Hong Kong, as well as a longstanding hub for the fishing and salt industries. Many Tanka fishing families reside here, and the stilt houses lining both shores are among the most unique sights in Hong Kong.
Photo by TATAHO
The lingering aroma of salted fish is another distinctive feature of Tai O.
Photo by Andy Yung
When you come to Tai O with good weather, capturing blue skies and white clouds is almost effortless.
During sunset, you can find a seaside spot, set up your tripod, and wait patiently for the sun to dip below the horizon. You can also use the stilt houses as a foreground to highlight the essence of this water village. Our Fever expert Andy Yung especially reminds everyone: “During the shoot, don’t rush to leave just because there’s still some natural light. Pay attention to the scenery behind you—you might find that the best moments happen ‘after’ the main event.”
Photo by RoyLGF
The so-called “best moments after” refer to the chance to capture the phenomenon of anti-crepuscular rays, also known among photographers as the "Magic Moments."
Photo by Andy Yung
After the sunset, if you still have the energy and time, Andy recommends heading southeast to photograph Tai O’s magnificent starry sky.
Photo by Andy Yung
On that occasion, Andy gave up the more star-filled southeastern and southwestern directions in pursuit of Polaris, venturing to the less starry northern area—facing the most light-polluted direction—and set up his tripod again to shoot star trails. The result, however, was not ideal.
Photo by Andy Yung
For detailed locations, please refer to the diagram below.
Fever Photography Travel Channel reminds you – Getting to Tai O
1) From MTR Tung Chung Station, take Bus No. 11 to Tai O Bus Terminus. The last bus departs at 00:15.
2) Take a ferry from Tuen Mun to Tai O. For details, please refer to the ferry company’s website.
Photo by MarcoLK
Hong Kong is a treasure trove for photography, with many fantastic spots waiting to be discovered.
In addition, Fever Travel has also curated a collection of over 120 Hong Kong photography spots. Feel free to join us online to exchange ideas, share experiences, and help build this photography treasure trove for us Hongkongers together.