July 29, 2025 | Sustainability

Gei Wai Shrimp Harvest Experience: Discover Hong Kong’s Coastal Heritage

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June marks the peak season for Gei Wai shrimp! Jebsen colleagues, along with their friends and families, gathered at WWF Hong Kong’s Mai Po Nature Reserve for a unique and exciting Gei Wai cultural experience on June 15.
The experience began with a guided introduction by reserve staff, who explained how Gei Wai shrimp ponds operate and shared the history behind this unique cultural practice. As one of Hong Kong’s traditional coastal techniques, Gei Wai holds economic, ecological, and cultural significance. Today, it survives only in Mai Po, making it a vital part of local heritage conservation.

Often called a “bird paradise”, Mai Po is home to a rich and diverse wetland ecosystem and serves as a key stopover for migratory birds. Participants strolled through the village at sunset, soaking in the tranquil views, before hopping on a vehicle to tour the shrimp ponds. With binoculars in hand and guidance from staff, they observed waterbirds in their natural habitat—experiencing the harmony of nature and culture firsthand.

As night fell, the highlight of the evening began. Since Gei Wai shrimp are sensitive to light, they only become active after dark. Participants visited the “Ha Liu” —the Gei Wai Cultural Museum. Outside the museum, participants got a hands-on look at nighttime shrimp harvesting—gaining a deeper appreciation for the wisdom and joy behind traditional methods.

Our colleagues left with bags full of freshly caught Gei Wai shrimp—and with a hands-on, meaningful experience of Hong Kong’s traditional coastal heritage. This immersive journey, blending nature education with cultural heritage, gave everyone a memorable and enriching midsummer night.

As a founding member of WWF-Hong Kong, Jebsen has been actively working towards a future where both people and nature can thrive. We look forward to organising more eco-education activities in the future—stay tuned!