Sha Tau Kok Set to Welcome Tourists After Decades as Closed Border Town
Sha Tau Kok, a town in Hong Kong’s North District bordering Shenzhen, is preparing to open its doors to tourists as early as March, marking a significant shift for the area that has been largely off-limits since 1951. The move, reported by Hong Kong 01, will initially limit the number of visitors to two or three groups per day.
For over seventy years, Sha Tau Kok functioned as part of the Frontier Closed Area, requiring permits for access and a guarantee from a local resident for non-residents. The gradual opening began in June 2022, with a second phase commencing in January 2024. This opening is part of the broader Northern Metropolis Development Strategy, aiming to revitalize the region and integrate it more closely with Shenzhen.
The town, described as “the last undiscovered, unexplored and unheard-of spot” by some, offers a glimpse into Hong Kong’s past and a unique cultural experience. It’s home to descendants of Hakka farmers and Hoklo fishermen who settled the area following a Qing dynasty ‘Great Clearance’ in the 17th century. Visitors can explore the area’s scenery, cultural landmarks, and local delicacies, with options to travel by kaito ferry to nearby islands like Lai Chi Wo, Kat O, and Ap Chau, as well as the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark.
The name “Sha Tau Kok” itself is rooted in history, originating from a poem written by a Qing dynasty minister: “The sun rises from the beach (Sha Tau), / the moon hangs above the cape (Kok).” The area’s Starling Inlet is also known locally as the “Mirror in the Sea” due to its reflective waters.
To visit Sha Tau Kok, travelers must apply for a Tourism Closed Area Permit through the online platform of the Hong Kong Police Force. Applications must be submitted three working days in advance on a first-come, first-served basis. The anticipated opening in March represents a significant step in making this historically isolated area accessible to a wider audience.
Meanwhile, the Sha Tau Kok border checkpoint is scheduled for demolition starting August 1, with reconstruction expected to begin in the first half of next year, according to The Standard. This demolition signals further development and modernization of the border area.
