Points of Interest
Li Ling Shin Che Pagoda
Li Ling Shin Che Pagoda, completed in 1916, is one of the oldest pagodas in Hong Kong. There are several versions of folk legends of Li Ling Shin Che (literally means “the goddess Li Ling”). One version reads that Li Ling was worshiped for her deeds of protecting the villagers from vile spirits and plagues, and villagers sought guidance from her whenever they were sick. Not only is it tangible heritage of the village, but a vital component of the villagers’ distinctive folk religion. On the 15th day of the 4th lunar month every year, a festive ritual is held in order to honour the legendary Li Ling. Close to the Pagoda are two statues of auspicious animals.
God of Earth Shrines
The two Shrines are located at both ends of Wai Chai Main Street. The completion dates are unknown but believed to have been built over 100 years ago.
Fire Dragon Graffiti
In 2014, two public artists came to the village and drew graffiti that combined zodiac signs and local symbols (e.g., the Pagoda). With its artistic and symbolic value, it was appreciated by the public. Petitions were made to protect the graffiti from removal.
Wai Chai Main Street in 1868.
Wai Chai Main Street
Wai Chai Main Street is an aggregate of 18 buildings. Originally residential houses, some villagers have begun to lease for commercial use since the 1950s. With the increase of population that also came from the neighbouring communities of Dairy Farm and Taikoo Lau, Wai Chai attracted more tenants. Nowadays, some shops are still doing business here.
Choi Yuen Tei Community Place
Choi Yuen Tei Community Place is a vital part of the villagers’ initiatives in conserving and promoting their lifestyle. With the efforts of the villagers and volunteers, this piece of land was refurbished as the community place in 2013. Activities such as the poon choi feast and the turnip harvest festival are held regularly to greet the villagers. Some events are also open to public.
No. 97, Pok Fu Lam Village
Most houses in Pokfulam Village have been reconstructed or renovated. The building of No. 97 is among those which maintain the original materials and form. It is a two-storey building made with granite blocks and tiles roof. The courtyard was altered. It is graded as Grade 3 historic building by the Antiquities Advisory Board (AAB), which demonstrates the village's authentic living environment.
Fire dragon dance and the Dragon Studio
The fire dragon dance in the Mid-Autumn Festival is a grand symbol that unifies the village. Every year, a huge fire dragon and some smaller ones, made of hay and incense, are weaved and tossed across the village. The dance begins from the village, parades along Pokfulam Road, passes through Wah Fu Estate and ends at Waterfall Bay, which means bringing the dragon back to the ocean for good fortune to the community at Pokfulam. The dance is open to public, and volunteers are recruited every year. Tourists may also visit the Dragon Studio, which is operated by the community craftsman, to learn more about the craft of fire dragon.
Kam’s House
The Kam’s family has been living in the Pokfulam Village for 8 generations. The House is built with a row of 4 Hakka style houses, but only one of them remains in its original shape. According to the Kam’s family, their rights as the landlord were somehow taken away by the government after signing a series of documents inappropriately. Since then, the Kam’s had paid for the Government rent and was under the threat of relocation.
Three Streams
Unlike other villages on Hong Kong Island (e.g., Kong Sin Wan Village and Waterfall Bay Village), Pokfulam Village is neither close to waterfront nor the plain. However, the village at the hillside is surrounded by three streams, which supplied sufficient clean water for farming and daily use, and made the village prone to flood, in the old days.
The Alleys
Pokfulam Village is characterised by narrow lanes and alleys. Visitors might find it difficult to find the way, yet there are many good angles for photo- taking. Most traditional buildings were replaced by newer structures that are made with metals and concretes. In the last few years, some villagers and HKU students repainted the roofs of some buildings, which gave this village a colourful appearance.
The St. Peter Clinic
The clinic was completed in 1954 by Father Rene Chevalier after he took charge of Our Lady of Lourdes Church at Taikoo Lau. The church and some doctors volunteered to provide consultations and medicines to the villagers free of charge. The clinic was also used as a chapel on Sundays. Taikoo Lau and the original Church were demolished in 1977 (which was rebuilt as Pokfulam Garden). The remaining clinic is a tangible record of Catholic missions’ service at Pokfulam Village.