Kam Tin Tree House, Ancient tree house in Kam Tin, Hong Kong.
Description
Kam Tin Tree House is a stone structure that has been completely enveloped by a massive banyan tree, with its roots and branches penetrating through the brick walls and foundations. The site now displays a remarkable fusion between human construction and the tree's organic growth.
History
The stone house was built during the late Ming Dynasty by the Tang clan and later abandoned following a Qing Dynasty evacuation order that affected coastal residents. This displacement marked the end of the building's active use and allowed nature to gradually reclaim it.
Culture
The stone structure's purpose is still debated among residents, with some believing it was a temple while others think it served as a study room for the Tang family. These questions show how the past remains part of the community's living memory.
Practical
The site is located in Shui Mei Tsuen village near the local playground in Yuen Long, accessible by way of rural paths. Visitors should prepare for uneven terrain and wear sturdy shoes to safely navigate around the roots and ancient stone structures.
Did you know?
The centuries-old banyan tree continues its natural growth, slowly drawing more of the stone building into its expanding root system. This slow process reveals how the boundary between human construction and nature gradually dissolves over time.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Yuen Long District).
Wang Fu Court
3.4 km
Fire Services Training School
3.9 km
Yu Yuen
3.4 km
Yuen Long Leisure and Cultural Building
3.9 km
Yuen Long Plain
3.9 km
Yuen Long Public Library
3.9 km
Yuen Long Theatre
3.9 km
Tin Hau temple, Shap Pat Heung
3.5 km
Ss. Peter and Paul Church
4.1 km
Pun Uk
2.1 km
Yi Tai Study Hall
326 m
Chou Wong Yi Kung Study Hall
374 m
Bin Mo Bridge
347 m
Tai Wai Tsuen
2.4 km
Tai Wong Temple, Cheung Shing Street
2.9 km
Leung Ancestral Hall, Yuen Kong Tsuen
2.9 km
Shun Tak Kui
3.7 km
Yuen Kwan Yi Tai Temple
2.9 km
Tung Yick Store
2.8 km
Chun Yuen Pawn House
2.9 km
Cheung Chun Yuen
157 m
Tang Kwong U Ancestral Hall
191 m
Tang Tsing Lok Ancestral Hall
129 m
I Shing Temple
3.5 km
Cheng Hon Pang Ancestral Hall
2.2 km
Lik Wing Tong Study Hall
200 m
Kam Tin Mural Village
1 km
Ling Mui Chong
3.7 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes