Kat O


Kat O, also named Crooked Island, is an island in Northeast Hong Kong. Administratively, it is part of North District.

Geography

Kat O is located in the west of Mirs Bay. With an area of 2.35 km², it is the largest island in North District, the second largest being Wong Wan Chau. Neighbouring islands include: Ap Chau, Ngo Mei Chau, and Pak Sha Chau. The village of Tung O is located on its northwest coast. Its highest point is Kai Kung Leng, which is 122 m above sea level.

History

Kat O was once a major fishing market in Hong Kong. Its residents were mostly Hakka and Tanka fishermen.
The Tin Hau Temple at Kat O was estimated to be built in 1763. It is listed as a Grade III historic building. Part of the temple building was used for the Tat O School until the school was moved to a new location in 1957.
A Pak Kung Shrine is also located in the vicinity.
There are 3 cannons located on the island. They are estimated to be made in the west, during the 19th century.

Conservation

Kat O was part of the Plover Cove Country Park since 1979.
The Kat O Nature Trail spans 1 km long, stretching from the Kat O Ferry Pier to Ko Tei Teng.
The Kat O Geoheritage Centre was opened in 2010 by Kat O villagers, volunteer groups and the government to raise public awareness of geo-conservation, as part of the Hong Kong Geopark.