East Kowloon's coastline was once a series of salt pans, with the earliest of them dating back to the Sung dynasty between 960-1279. It was a lucrative monopoly of the Imperial government, with salt being produced from the bays between Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon City, and To Kwa Wan and Tseung Kwan O.
Kowloon City's rich historical background is largely linked to its strategic military and political value. The Qing government (1644-1912) built a small fort at the head of the beach (centre of Kowloon Bay) in 1810, reinstating the importance of the area to China's maritime defence.
The fort's purpose was to defend Lei Yue Mun, Kowloon Bay, Hung Hom and Tsim Sha Tsui against pirates or foreign invaders.
Of even more importance to local defences was the walled garrison city, later known as Kowloon Walled City.
The British had already occupied Hong Kong Island in 1841 and, in response, the Qing authorities built this imposing garrison city, protected by massive stone walls. It was designed to serve as a military nerve centre and headquarters for Imperial officials in what had become a very sensitive area. The Kowloon Walled City's design followed traditional architectural lines of fortresses.
Dotted along the walls that enclosed the area were six watchtowers and four gates, which were closed and guarded each night. The enclosed area measured about 6.5 acres.