Cha Kwo Ling (Chinese: 茶果嶺) is an area in the Kwun Tong District of Kowloon, Hong Kong. It is situated on the eastern shore of Victoria Harbour, between Ngau Tau Kok and Yau Tong. Historically known as one of Hong Kong's major squatter settlements, the area has undergone significant urban redevelopment.
Etymology The name "Cha Kwo Ling" literally translates to "Cha Kwo Hill." "Cha Kwo" (茶果) refers to a type of traditional Chinese steamed snack, often made with glutinous rice flour and various fillings, typically eaten during festivals. It is believed that the name derived from the abundance of wild plants in the area whose leaves were used to wrap these snacks, or perhaps from the snacks being sold by villagers.
Geography and Location Cha Kwo Ling occupies a hillside location overlooking Victoria Harbour. Its eastern border abuts the hills of Tseung Kwan O, while to the west lies Ngau Tau Kok. The area offers panoramic views of the harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline. Due to its strategic waterfront location, it has been a focus for various development projects.
History Cha Kwo Ling has a long history, dating back to the Ming Dynasty, when Hakka and Hoklo fishing communities settled there. In the early 20th century, it became known for its quarries, which supplied building materials for Hong Kong's expanding urban areas. Following World War II, a significant influx of immigrants and refugees led to the rapid growth of squatter settlements in Cha Kwo Ling, making it one of the "three major squatter villages" alongside Ngau Tau Kok and Sai Tso Wan. These informal settlements were characterized by makeshift dwellings, often without proper sanitation or infrastructure.
Culture and Landmarks Despite its squatter past, Cha Kwo Ling retains several unique cultural elements and historical landmarks:
- Tin Hau Temple: Built in 1841, the temple is one of the oldest in Kwun Tong District and serves as a spiritual center for the local community, particularly for fishermen and residents seeking blessings from the Goddess of the Sea.
- Rock Houses (石屋): A few distinctive houses built with large, roughly cut stone blocks remain, reflecting the area's quarrying history and unique architectural style from an earlier era. These structures offer a glimpse into the traditional village life that once dominated the area.
- Traditional Village Life: Even with redevelopment, some elements of traditional village life persist, including small temples, ancestral halls, and community customs.
Redevelopment and Future Beginning in the late 20th century, the Hong Kong government initiated plans to clear and redevelop squatter areas. Cha Kwo Ling was one of the last major squatter villages slated for comprehensive redevelopment. Large-scale public housing projects are currently underway or planned for the area, aiming to transform it into a modern residential community with improved infrastructure, recreational facilities, and public amenities. This redevelopment has led to the gradual resettlement of long-term residents and the demolition of many of the informal structures, while efforts are also made to preserve historical and cultural assets.
Transportation Cha Kwo Ling is primarily served by local bus routes and public light buses connecting it to nearby MTR stations like Yau Tong and Kwun Tong, as well as other parts of Kowloon. Its waterfront location also historically facilitated sea transport.