From Valley to Plain: Conservation and Revitalisation from ‘Ng To’ to Kuk Po River and Plain via Multi-disciplinary, Educational and Action Research

Proponent: School of Architecture of The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Site: Kuk Po

Project Description

The project restored the Ng To village houses and enhanced the surrounding environment, thereby creating a multifunctional field study base camp. This base camp not only supports field research and surveys but also provides an ideal venue for experiential learning and educational tours. In-depth exchanges among professors, researchers, students, volunteers and returning villagers are nurtured in order to promote knowledge sharing.

The project also examined the ecological changes from the coastal plains of Kuk Po to the inland area of "Ng To," integrating this with the 300-year evolution of Hakka settlements. Comprehensive teaching materials were compiled and the design of an eco-cultural trail was put forward. This pioneered a model of rural conservation through collaboration between universities and villages.

Grant Approved

HK$3,000,000

Project Duration

29/10/2021-28/01/2024

The project information panel in front of the field study base camp

Student using the field study base camp and its outdoor area for experiential learning activities

How To Get There

1 | Minibus + Hiking |

• Take green minibus No. 56K from Fanling MTR Station to Luk Keng, then hike for about 45 minutes to Kuk Po

• Reference Route: Luk Keng → Kai Kuk Shue Ha → Fung Hang → Kuk Po

Project Update

The project was completed on 28 January 2024.

Project Outcome

The project pioneered a new model of countryside conservation through the partnership between university and rural communities. The restored Yeung's House in Ng To is now serving as the Multi-disciplinary Education Research Base Camp for the CUHK and has attracted numerous visitors since its opening in February 2023. The project team also organised educational guided tours to introduce Kuk Po to different parties, which include primary school students, secondary school students, university students as well as members of the public.