Picture the scene. A small ferry gently approaches the Tap Mun Pier. This pier, more than just a structure of concrete and wood, is your gateway to Tap Mun. Known to some as Grass Island, Tap Mun is a place where time seems to slow down.
Tap Mun Pier stands in the southwestern part of Tap Mun. For over 60 years, it has greeted visitors. Built in 1958, it originally lacked a roof. Locals requested improvements. In 2017, the government added a roof, enhanced the railings, and improved the waiting area.
Ferries are the only way to reach Tap Mun. You can catch a kaito, a local ferry, from Wong Shek Pier or Ma Liu Shui Pier. Enjoy the boat trip. It’s wonderful, especially on a lazy afternoon.
The pier improvements are designed to meet rising traffic demand. The improvements aim for sustainability. The pier head was extended for appropriate water depth. Adequate water depth for berthing was provided. Boarding and access facilities were improved. A ramp and a floating platform were adapted. This helps passengers board and alight more easily.
Near Tap Mun Pier is the Tap Mun Fish Cultural Zone. Here, you can find mariculture rafts. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department of Hong Kong approved these for recreational fishing.
Walk north from the Tap Mun Pier. You’ll soon see three ancient temples. One of these is Tin Hau Temple. It was built in the late Ming Dynasty or early Qing Dynasty. That makes it over 400 years old.
Continue and you will come to King Lam School. It was established before 1913. The school closed in 2003 because of the declining population. Two former Governors, Sir David Clive Crosbie Trench and Sir Edward Youde visited it.
Follow the path beside Tin Hau Temple. You will discover vast grasslands. At the Tap Mun Grassland, enjoy the sea view. You might even see the local Tap Mun cows.
Climb the steps north of the grassland. You’ll reach Dragon View Pavilion. From there, the views of the island are breathtaking.
Walk the trail south. You’ll find two stacked rocks. They are rectangular and about six metres high. They look like the Chinese character “Lui”. Some say they resemble a stupa. Nearby is Tap Mun Cave. It opens to Mirs Bay like a door. This is how the island got its name “Fat Tap Mun” which means Stupa Door. This was later simplified to Tap Mun.
Remember, Tap Mun Pier is more than just a point of arrival. It’s the beginning of your exploration of this unique island. Take a moment to appreciate its history. Consider its importance to the community. Enjoy your time on Tap Mun.