Tai O Heritage Hotel, Hong Kong’s first UNESCO-recognized hotel, is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural Tai O Night Boat Parade. In collaboration with the Tai O Cultural Association, this event celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, offering a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of Hong Kong’s scenic fishing village.
The Night Boat Parade, available on weekends and public holidays from September 15th to October 13th, 2024, takes participants on a journey through time. Guests will board traditional Tai O sampans, once the primary mode of transport in the village, and learn about the area’s maritime heritage directly from experienced oarsmen. This event provides a chance for Tai O villagers to reconnect with their shared history, while participants enjoy a distinctive way to celebrate the festive season with loved ones.
Adding to the excitement, Tai O introduces its debut riverside multisensory experience, “Impression of Tai O – Fisherman and Lantern.” This engaging show, a captivating blend of silhouettes and handcrafted lanterns, will depict daily life in Tai O, offering a deeper understanding of the village’s cultural heritage.
For those seeking a memorable escape, Tai O Heritage Hotel offers the exclusive ‘Tai O Night Boat Parade Package’ on select dates: September 15th, 18th, 21st, and 28th, 2024. This package includes a one-night stay at the hotel, a dinner set for two, breakfast for two, a special Mid-Autumn gift, and participation in the Tai O Night Boat Parade. It’s the perfect choice for families and friends wanting to celebrate in a magical setting.
Additionally, Tai O Lookout will serve a special ‘Mid-Autumn Festival Afternoon Tea Set’ from September 14th to 18th. Guests enjoying the ‘Taste of Tai O Tea Set’ on September 15th, 18th, 21st, and 28th will also have the opportunity to participate in the Tai O Night Boat Parade. For further details, visit the official website of Tai O Heritage Hotel.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to conserve Tai O community’s rich history and architectural gem, and are thankful to the Tai O Cultural Association and Tai O community for the wonderful support on this meaningful initiative. The Tai O Night Boat Parade not only pays homage to the traditional wisdom and collective memories of Tai O villagers, but also helps the younger generations and guests create their own fond memories while savouring the charm of Tai O village at night,” remarks Mr. Daryl Ng, Director, Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation, which operates Tai O Heritage Hotel.
“Back in the days when sampans glided through our waters, each oar stroke carried stories of hard work and camaraderie. Those wooden boats are more than just vessels, they are actually bridges connecting us to our past, our livelihoods, and the soul of Tai O. The Tai O Night Boat Parade revives those memories, illuminating the essence of our village for all to cherish,” says Mr. Stanley Wong, Executive Director of the Tai O Cultural Association.
Tai O Heritage Hotel, housed in the Old Tai O Police Station – completed in 1902 and classified as a Grade II historic building – dedicates itself to preserving the historical value of this architectural landmark. Operating as a not-for-profit social enterprise, the hotel reinvests its surpluses into maintaining the site and advancing community-driven eco-tourism initiatives. Since its opening in March 2012, Tai O Heritage Hotel has hosted over 2 million visitors from both Hong Kong and abroad and has actively participated in more than 100 community events and festivals.
