City Escaping Evolution
Photos and text by Pearl Lee
On week day afternoons, the sunlight seeps through the arched entrance and forms a long beam of
bright yellow light on the lane. Children play in this mellow afternoon sunlight while an old man concentrates on his sewing.
Such is life in Nga Tsin Wai Tsuen, one of many remaining walled villages.
To many people, a wai tsuen, or "walled village", is associated with the countryside. However, it is not always the case.
Nga Tsin Wai Tsuen is the one and only wai tsuen in Kowloon. Traditionally, a wai tsuen is surrounded by high brick
wall for protection. Yet, Nga Tsin Wai Tsuen lacks this symbol, making it harder to perceive it as the walled village it really is.
Above : The assortments of buildings created
a contrast between modernity and tradition.
Right : Anywhere can be a playground for the children, including Nga Tsin Wai Tseun.
Left : It is not odd to have your hair cut in the open in Nga Tsin Wai Tsuen.
October 1996
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