Envision a tranquil scene. We are now standing at Shing Mun Picnic Site No.12. It is a part of the larger Shing Mun Reservoir area. The reservoir is a popular destination. Families come here to hike. It is nestled between Tai Mo Shan and Kam Shan Country Parks.
Shing Mun Reservoir is perfect for picture-perfect memories. The area teems with wildlife. Butterflies, monkeys, cattle, and even wild pigs live here. You can walk along reservoir roads and trails. Immerse yourself in this idyllic setting. Nature surrounds you here. Don’t miss the paperbark trees. They offer Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
Shing Mun Picnic Site No.12 offers a unique perspective. It sits along the Shing Mun Reservoir. The reservoir is more than just a pretty view. It supplies fresh water. Kowloon and Hong Kong Island depend on it. The reservoir is the lifeblood of the local flora and fauna. They flourish along its banks.
The Pineapple Dam Nature Trail is nearby. It is an insightful and eye-opening experience. Start your day out around Shing Mun Reservoir there. The trail is family-friendly. You can take a short stroll through local flora and fauna. Monkeys often gather around the picnic areas. They look for food. The area was once home to Hakkas of the Cheung family. They grew rice and pineapples. That’s why it is called Pineapple Dam.
Feeding monkeys is prohibited. It affects their natural behavior. It can cause a rapid increase in the monkey population. Monkeys usually won’t bother you if you don’t offer food. If monkeys are nearby, remain calm. Avoid holding food or plastic bags. Do not stare at the monkeys. Staring can provoke them.
The paperbark trees are a sight to behold. They line the main reservoir road. Their peeling bark gives them their name. They can grow up to 18 metres tall. Enjoy the birdsong. Listen to the gently rushing water. The paperbark trees create a perfect photo spot.
Take a detour to the Shing Mun War Relics Trail. It is a short climb up the steps. You’ll reach the Shing Mun Redoubt. This was part of a 12-acre citadel. It straddled the Kwai Tsing and Sha Tin districts. The trenches had names like Shaftesbury Avenue. This helped soldiers navigate. It was built to defend against attacks from the north. The trail was an important stronghold. It was part of the Gin Drinker’s Line. There are defence installations here. Trenches, military marker stones, and pillboxes remain. They were built before the Second World War.
After exploring nature and history, relax in Tsuen Wan. Lo Tak Court offers snacks and local cafes. You can find street food like dim sum, fish balls, and egg waffles.
To get here, take minibus 82 from MTR Tsuen Wan Station. It goes directly to the start of the Shing Mun Reservoir Walk. After your visit, take the minibus back to Tsuen Wan. Shing Mun Picnic Site No.12 is a place of natural beauty and historical significance. It is a perfect spot to appreciate Hong Kong’s blend of nature and history.