What if I told you that a stream holds the secrets of Hong Kong’s highest peak? That stream is Tai Shing Stream. It flows from Tai Mo Shan. Tai Mo Shan is the highest mountain in Hong Kong.
Tai Shing Stream’s journey ends at Shing Mun Reservoir. Before the reservoir existed, it flowed into Shatin Bay. Its name signifies its importance. It is the “Big Shing” stream that feeds Shing Mun Reservoir.
Tai Shing Stream is not for the faint of heart. It is known for the Little Bird Rock. It is also known for the Wong Mo Waterfall, also called Dragon Waterfall. Trekking here is difficult. You must cross the river frequently. Proper water shoes are essential. Wet shoes simply won’t do.
The hike up Tai Shing Stream is a challenge. It earns a 4/5 difficulty rating. The trek up the river takes about 3 to 4 hours. Getting in and out of Shing Mun Reservoir adds another 5 to 6 hours.
One can start the journey to Tai Shing Stream from the Pineapple Dam Nature Trail. The lower part of the stream is relatively flat. Boulders and small pools dot the landscape. A 40-minute walk brings you to Azalea Pool.
Beside the pool stands a 13-foot-high rock. It resembles a large bird. Thus, it is called Mountain Bird Rock. Further ahead lies the Huang Mu Waterfalls. They are also known as Dragon Waterfalls. They cascade from a height of over 200 feet. Maple Leaf Pool awaits a short distance away. It is the stream’s largest pool.
Tai Shing Stream offers more than just a challenging hike. It is easily accessible. Hikers often visit it in the summer. Its waters are best after a week of rain. However, crossing becomes more difficult then.
To reach Tai Shing Stream, take minibus 82 from Tsuen Wan MTR station. Get off at Pineapple Dam. Follow the Pineapple Dam Nature Trail. After about 40 minutes, you’ll see a bridge. It crosses Tai Shing Stream. Turn left before the bridge to enter the stream.
The rocks along Tai Shing Stream can be slippery. Watch your step. One stretch requires jumping over large boulders. The Little Bird Rock is larger than expected. Many miss it at first. They are too busy admiring the wide waterfall in front.
Above Little Bird Rock, the path becomes easier. Rocks on the right provide a good route. More waterfalls appear as you ascend. Eventually, you reach Dragon Stream.
Dragon Waterfall is a sight to behold. A narrow flow of water descends a steep cliff. It resembles a dragon. A small pool sits at its base. A trail to the left of the waterfall offers a view. Find a small rock to overlook the waterfall.
Leaving Tai Shing Stream requires caution. A steep, muddy path leads to Shing Mun Reservoir. Turn left on the big road to reach the reservoir. Turn right then left to get closer to Pineapple Dam. This route emerges from the Butterfly Garden.
Remember Tai Shing Stream. It demands respect. Every year, accidents happen. Be careful and appreciate nature.
Tai Shing Stream offers a unique blend of challenge and beauty. From its origin on Tai Mo Shan to its waterfalls and pools, it is a trek worth taking. Just be sure to wear proper shoes.