New Territories

Living

Recent expansion of the metro system (MTR) has opened up the southeastern side of the New Territories.  Traveling to Hong Kong Island and finding connections to the popular outdoor areas of Clear Water Bay and Sai Kung are now very convenient.  Expats who settle in the New Territories usually do so in order to take a step back from the fast-paced city life.

In the northern-most parts of the New Territories, the “real” Hong Kong lifestyle begins to peak through.  Temples are seen more frequently, international food and restaurants are nearly impossible to find, and in the outermost stretches one can see a number of farmers and catch other glimpses of local lifestyles.

Popular areas in the central part of the New Territories are Sha Tin and Tai Po.  Sha Tin was one of the first satellite cities of Hong Kong.  The district has a good mix of low-cost residents, up market developments, and there are even pockets of village housing among the hills.

Slightly further north is Tai Po, which is surrounded by lush green mountains and the beautifully peaceful Tolo Harbor.  The area has a selection of reasonably priced high-rise apartments, village houses, and a few luxury developments.  The MTR East Rail line allows for easy commuting to Kowloon and the Island.

On the eastern side of the New Territories are Sai Kung and Clear Water Bay.  Residents generally fall under the category of “outdoor types” – those who enjoy open spaces, the sea, and the mountains.

A large country park, uninhabited islands, golf courses, and water activities pull in large crowds.  High-rises do not dominate this area, rather living spaces are usually found in the form of townhouses, duplexes, and gated communities.

The harbor at Sai Kung

The western portion of the New Territories is in close proximity to Hong Kong International Airport.  Tsing Yi, which offers a range of residential properties, including higher-end, private developments, is the prime choice for settlement here.

Tsing Yi’s location on the Airport Express line of the MTR makes for convenient trips to Hong Kong Island.

International schools exist in the New Territories, but they are not nearly as abundant in proportion to what can be found on the Island and Kowloon Peninsula.

Residential buildings in Shatin photograph by elphhk