Ngau Chi Wan (Which literately translates as “Cattle Pond Bay”), is one of the original village settlements in New Kowloon of Hong Kong. The area is now known as “Choi Hung,” for the Choi Hung Estate which is adjacent to the original village. Ngau Chi Wan is one of those few forgotten gems which are overlooked by modern development. Interestingly, it wasn’t redeveloped and was left in its original state. To be honest, I stumbled upon this market by chance. Usually I would get off at Choi Hung station and head directly for the mini bus stop. Last week however, I got there early and since I hadn’t had breakfast, I explored around to see if I could find something to eat. Being sandwiched by two arterial roads, I had very low expectations of finding an eatery. However, once I stepped into the market, it felt like I just found a treasure chest (of food). The market itself is divided into two areas; the original market where there is a mixture of the small eateries and market stalls, and the modern three story market where a variety of meats, produce as well as clothing and textiles are sold.
Not knowing about the traditional market, I headed into the modern market seeing that it was near the MTR exit which I came out of. The market itself is divided into sectors where each sector specializes in a certain area such as fresh seafood, produce, live poultry, Chinese BBQ meats etc. The array of colors, smells, and sounds were mesmerizing. However, being on an empty stomach, I continued on my quest to fill my belly and made my way out of the modern market and I found myself in the traditional market.
Not knowing about the traditional market, I headed into the modern market seeing that it was near the MTR exit which I came out of. The market itself is divided into sectors where each sector specializes in a certain area such as fresh seafood, produce, live poultry, Chinese BBQ meats etc. The array of colors, smells, and sounds were mesmerizing. However, being on an empty stomach, I continued on my quest to fill my belly and made my way out of the modern market and I found myself in the traditional market.
Concentrated on both sides of the Kam Chi Path were family owned stalls selling a variety of things such as clothing, fresh meats, and most importantly, food! Just on this tiny street was around 7 Cha Chaan Tengs (Chinese Cafes). Even so, what caught my interest was the take away Dim Sum. One could choose four different kinds of dim sum (four pieces each) and it would cost less than 40 HKD (around 5.6 CND) which is quite a steal even for Hong Kong standards. Quality was decent as well. Being a person who eats a lot, I ventured my way into a wonton noodle shop. Here, a wonton noodle soup costs 16 HKD (2.2 CND) and a combination of wontons and beef brisket costs 20 HKD (2.6 CND). I ended up choosing the combination set. After finishing the noodles, I was satisfied and headed off to Sai Kung.
Although Hong Kong is well known for its modernity, it’s also heartwarming to know that a little piece of their heritage is preserved in this little village of Ngau Chi Wan. If you are in Hong Kong and have the time to spare, I do recommend exploring the area. It is accessible by Choi Hung Station Exit B and Exit C1.
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