The Northern District adjoining the border with mainland China covers a vast area, spanning Sheung Shui, Fanling, Sha Tau Kok and Ta Kwu Ling. Sheung Shui and Fanling are now well developed new towns, but many other areas of Northern District are still a picture of rural hamlets and paddy fields.

Years ago, Sheung Shui, Fanling, Lung Yeuk Tau and their neighbourhood formed one big area known as Sheung Yue Tung (Double Fish Grotto), with no district boundaries. The name Fanling originates from a white chalky ridge that villagers came across when they built their hamlet. They named the village Fan Pik Ling (Chalky Hill), and later shortened it to Fanling.

Shek Wu Hui (Rock, Lake and Market) in the centre of Sheung Shui also has a story. Legend has it that Shek Wu Hui was once the site of a small river with no rocks whatsoever on the banks. Then rocks began to appear, intercepting the flow and giving rise to a small lake. Shek Wu Hui, along with Luen Wo Hui in Fanling, were two of the earliest market towns and business hubs of the Northern District. Villagers would travel from all over the district to these markets. Today we can still see some of the old high streets and picture the glorious days of Hong Kong's rural markets.

Despite its modern developments, Fanling still has many beautiful traditional buildings. Fung Ying Seen Koon, west of Fanling railway station, is one such popular local attraction. Built in 1929, it was founded as an affiliate of the Dragon Gate sect of the Complete Perfection lineage. Inside are statues of Lao Tzu and Qiu Chang Qing, two prominent Taoist masters. Fung Ying Seen Koon is one of the most influential Taoist establishments in Hong Kong.

Interesting Stories of 18 Districts
Central & Western	Eastern
Islands	Kowloon City
Kwai Tsing	Kwun Tong
North	Sai Kung
Sham Shui Po	Sha Tin
Southern	Tai Po
Tsuen Wan	Tuen Mun
Wan Chai	Wong Tai Sin
Yau Ma Tei Tsim Sha Tsui Mong Kok   Others	Yuen Long

The monastery was extensively enlarged between 1950 and 1960, developing into the sizeable religious complex one can see today. It features magnificent halls and lobbies, and a restaurant where visitors can enjoy delicious vegetarian meals. In the picturesque garden you will find neatly arranged flower beds and charming bridges. It is a good place to enjoy a panoramic view of Fanling.