Ngau Wu Tong

“Did the Ngau Wu Reservoir always look so tranquil?” a hiker once mused, gazing at the turquoise water. Ngau Wu Tong, crowned by this small reservoir, offers a peaceful escape within Ma On Shan. This easy hike, often overlooked, reveals a hidden gem. The reservoir’s turquoise water invites photographers, framed by a small waterfall on one side and the Ma On Shan cityscape on the other. Ngau Wu Tong and its reservoir aren’t part of Hong Kong’s Water Supplies Department. This reservoir, built in the 1960s, served a different purpose. It originally provided water to a children’s home, now the Wu Kai Sha Youth Village. The Ngau Wu Stream, originating near the Hunch Backs, feeds the reservoir. Its water level fluctuates, a reflection of recent rainfall. The stream doesn’t end at the reservoir. It continues upward, eventually joining the Goose Valley Lost Trail, a path winding between Tiu Shau Ngam and Ma Mei Ridge. Reaching Ngau Wu Tong from Ma On Shan MTR station is a short uphill walk. The trailhead hides behind Kam Ying Court Estate. For a longer trek, start at Wu Kai Sha Station and follow Sai Sha Road. This path eventually merges with the Kam Ying Court trail, extending the scenic journey. Numerous buses also reach the Kam Ying Court Bus Terminus, including the 85M circular line connecting to Wong Tai Sin. The trail to Ngau Wu Tong is mostly paved, making it an easy hike. However, good footwear is recommended as sections leading directly to the reservoir can be a little messy. Finding the main trail shouldn’t be a problem. Returning the same way is advisable, given the many branching paths around Ngau Wu Tong. Getting lost is a real possibility. So, soak in the serenity of Ngau Wu Tong and its reservoir. Enjoy the views. Admire the cascading waterfall. Appreciate the quiet escape it provides. Then, carefully retrace your steps back to civilization, carrying the memory of this hidden gem.