A boat docks at the Sha Tau Kok Pier, Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
HONG KONG – The Hong Kong government on Friday launched a pilot project that allows local tours to use the Sha Tau Kok Pier that was located in the frontier closed area and was previously closed to the public.
The pier will be open to registered local tour groups for traveling to neighboring scenic spots, including Lai Chi Wo and Kat O, by water vessels on public holidays.
READ MORE: Hidden gems in your backyard
Officiating at the opening ceremony, Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor said the government hoped to develop the border town of Sha Tau Kok into a major tourist spot.
A man swims off the Sha Tau Kok Pier in Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
She also expected the project to create a multiple-win situation that would enable the injection of impetus to the Sha Tau Kok community, preservation of cultural heritage and conservation of the environment.
The opening of the pier was part of her plan announced in last year’s policy address to develop a Northern Metropolis, she added.
A man jogs past a mural showing the Cape of Sha Tau Kok, which is located at the easternmost corner of Sha Tau Kok, where one can enjoy views of Hong Kong and Shenzhen simultaneously, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
To facilitate tourists in the area, the government has also added various facilities around the pier. Residents of Sha Tau Kok can also sell specialty goods at a designated area.
Under the trial scheme, there are two sessions on each holiday to accommodate three local tours in each session. The government said it would review the scheme upon its completion after six month to examine ways in further opening up Sha Tau Kok town.
ALSO READ: Northern Metropolis to promote coordinated development between HK, Shenzhen
A Sha Tau Kok resident sells specialty goods at a designated area near the Sha Tau Kok Pier, Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
A man swims off the Sha Tau Kok Pier in Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
Charms are hung on a railing by the sea in Sha Tau Kok, Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
A man does warmup exercises before swimming in Sha Tau Kok, Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)
A man works at the Sha Tau Kok Pier, Hong Kong, June 3, 2022. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)