Exploring Yuen Long District: A Local's Guide to the Best of the New Territories
Yuen Long District, formerly known as Un Long, is one of the administrative districts within the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Spanning a vast geographical area, the district encompasses the traditional communities of Ping Shan Heung, Ha Tsuen Heung, Kam Tin Heung, Pat Heung, San Tin Heung, and Shap Pat Heung, as well as the planned urban developments of Yuen Long New Town and Tin Shui Wai New Town.
A Tapestry of History
Yuen Long District is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with a long history that has imbued the region with a diverse array of traditional customs and rituals still actively practiced by its residents. This blend of the old and new, the rural and urban, creates a vibrant and multifaceted community. The district's name, derived from the Chinese characters "圓塱," reflects its longstanding identity as a low-lying area surrounded by mountains and an abundant water supply.
Yuen Long's Culinary Landmark
The bustling town of Yuen Long has long been recognized as a hub of culinary delights and cultural richness. One iconic establishment that has become synonymous with the region's gastronomic legacy is the renowned Wing Wah Cake Shop, which has earned numerous accolades for its acclaimed mooncakes.
Multicultural Vibrancy
Yuen Long is a vibrant and multicultural neighborhood in Hong Kong, showcasing the city's rich diversity. This diverse character is reflected in the latest 2021 Population Census, which reveals that Yuen Long is home to approximately 670,000 Chinese residents, accounting for around 9.0% of the total population. But the diversity of the district goes beyond just the Chinese population. Within the Yuen Long District itself, more than 44,531 ethnically diverse people reside, where the predominant ethnic group is Nepalese, making up 37.6% of the ethnically diverse (ED) population in the district. This further enriched the district's cultural tapestry and contributed to its unique character.
Affordable Living Draws Ethnic Diversity to Yuen Long - and Fuels Entrepreneurship
Attracted by the district's relatively low cost of living, ethnically diverse residents have flocked to Yuen Long, transforming the area into a vibrant, self-sustaining community. Many newcomers, hailing from countries like Nepal, Pakistan, Indonesia, the Philippines, and India, have not only settled here but also opened their own businesses - creating a bustling "mini Chungking" that the local Nepalese community has christened.
This concentrated hub teems with an impressive array of ethnic enterprises - provision stores, gold shops, clothing boutiques, restaurants, salons, and more—meeting the diverse needs of the population. The synergy between affordable living and the residents' entrepreneurial drive has fostered a dynamic urban tapestry that celebrates Yuen Long's remarkable diversity. Here, the old and new, the local and global, seamlessly intertwine, making this community truly one-of-a-kind. Beyond its reputation as an affordable, entrepreneurial enclave for ethnic minorities, Yuen Long also boasts a wealth of iconic historic sites that reflect its rich heritage.
Shopping and Groceries
Craving your favorite Indian curry or the famous Nepalese dumplings called "Momo"? No need to worry - Yuen Long's Hop Yick Commercial Centre, aslo know as the vibrant "Mini Chungking" has you covered. This bustling ethnic enclave is home to a wealth of provision stores stocked with all the traditional ingredients you need to recreate the tastes of home.
Asian Provision Store
Asian Provision Store is a one-stop shop offering a wide range of Indian, Nepali, and Pakistani products for the local community. Established in 2022, the store provides a convenient home delivery service, catering to the diverse needs of its customers. From frozen foods and ritual items to cooking utensils and Indian skincare, Asian Provision Store aims to bring the flavors and traditions of the subcontinent right to your doorstep.
Safwan Provision Store
Safwan Provision Store is a long-standing, family-owned Pakistani grocery business that has operated out of Yuen Long since 1999. Serving the local community for over two decades, the store distinguishes itself through its unparalleled product variety, offering customers an extensive selection of authentic Pakistani goods.
Millennium Visual Centre
Millennium Visual Centre is a family-owned business that has been a fixture in the community for over 16 years, providing both vision care services and a selection of South Asian grocery items.. By offering this unique combination of optical expertise and specialized products, Millennium Visual Centre has catered to the diverse needs of its loyal patrons.
Dining
Siddhartha Fast Food
Siddhartha Fastfood is a pioneering Nepalese restaurant in Yuen Long, renowned for its authentic momos and traditional thali platters. These elaborate spreads feature an array of quintessential Nepali dishes, including rice, lentil soup, vegetable and meat/fish curries, pickles, yogurt, and salads - offering diners a truly comprehensive taste of the country's vibrant street food culture.
The MomoPlace
The MomoPlace is a unique restaurant that blends the vibrant flavors of Indian and Nepali street food. The menu at The MomoPlace is a delightful showcase of beloved street food classics, including Gol Gappe, Vada Pav, and the signature Momos. Offering both dine-in and delivery options, The MomoPlace has earned a loyal following for its commitment to authenticity, accessibility, and culinary excellence.
Discover The MomoPlace on GuideFong
Shreengkhala Curry House
This Indian restaurant, run by a dedicated Nepalese couple, has been a standout dining destination for over two decades. With two branches in Hong Kong, the eatery has earned the praise of renowned local celebrities like Chua Lam and William Tang. The secret to its success lies in the family-recipe curries, expertly crafted using imported Indian spices and herbs to deliver an unparalleled depth of flavor.
Discover Shreengkhala Curry House on GuideFong
Shaffi's Indian Restaurant(Halal)
Shaffi's Indian Restaurant offers diners an authentic taste of the subcontinent. As a Halal establishment, the restaurant caters to a diverse clientele seeking genuine Indian cuisine. From rich, flavorful curries to freshly baked naan, the menu at Shaffi's showcases the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of India.
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The Queen Of Siu Mai
Yuen Long is home to one of the best Siu Mai spots in all of Hong Kong. Their distinctive dumplings are crafted with a delectable blend of ingredients, including black mushrooms, shrimp, and minced pork. The exceptional shiitake mushroom lends a truly unique and exceptional flavor profile to these beloved steamed dumplings.
Kei Kee Dessert
A local eatery in Yuen Long has become a beloved destination for both the young and old, always bustling with crowds. Their signature offering is a decadent fruit dessert, composed of jelly, an array of fresh fruits, sago in coconut milk - a heavenly combination. But be warned, the portions are quite generous, so it's best to ask about the sizing before ordering to avoid overindulging.
Spots To Checkout
Park Nature
Don't assume star-gazing in Hong Kong is impossible. Yuen Long's Park Nature offers the unique opportunity to marvel at the night sky while enjoying the comforts of a caravan experience. For the ultimate evening, pair your celestial viewing with a delightful BBQ, creating an unforgettable outdoor adventure right in the heart of the city.
Ha Pak Nai
Seeking a tranquil setting to watch the sunset or enjoy an affordable date night? Look no further than Ha Pak Nai in Yuen Long. This scenic locale offers the perfect backdrop to unwind and take in the breathtaking display as the day comes to a close, providing a peaceful respite from the bustling city.
Lam Tsuen Country Park
Yuen Long's Lam Tsuen Country Park offers the perfect opportunity to get your steps in while immersed in stunning natural scenery. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the trails here provide a breathtaking backdrop that is accessible for beginners and experienced adventurers alike. Embark on a rejuvenating trek through this verdant oasis and soak in the magnificent views.
Discover More with GuideFong
While we have mostly featured Yuen Long, there’s more to New Territories and its multicultural neighborhoods! Explore even more businesses and their cultural diversity with GuideFong.
If you're interested in learning more about how we support these small businesses, reach out to us at info@guidefong.org. Stay tuned for our other blog posts too!
This blog post was drafted by Suhana Rai who participated in Community Business Internship Program at the Foundation for Shared Impact (FSI) during the summer of 2024. The Community Business Internship Program to support ethnically diverse youths in Hong Kong was supported by Linklaters Asia.
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