Picnic Site No 4, Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve

Deep within the embrace of Hong Kong’s verdant wilderness lies a hidden gem, Picnic Site No 4, Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve. This isn’t just any picnic spot. It’s a gateway to a world teeming with life, a place where the whispers of nature’s stories echo through the trees. Picnic Site No 4 is nestled within a 460-hectare expanse of lush forest, once a barren landscape. In 1926, a government initiative transformed this area into a thriving ecosystem. Initially, the plantation consisted mainly of Chinese Red Pine. This earned Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve the local moniker “Tsung Tsai Yuen,” meaning Pine Garden. Later, other tree species like Camphor, China Fir, Taiwan Acacia, and Paper-bark Tree were introduced. Today, over 100 different tree species flourish here, a testament to the power of nature’s resilience. Picnic Site No 4 offers a serene escape from the urban hustle. Here, amidst the symphony of birdsong and rustling leaves, you can savor a packed lunch. As you enjoy your meal, imagine the vibrant tapestry of life around you. Over 160 bird species call this reserve home, their melodies filling the air. The forest floor is a haven for 102 butterfly species. Their vibrant wings dance among the foliage. More than 50 dragonfly species patrol the air. Even elusive creatures like barking deer, civet cats, pangolins, and porcupines roam these woods. Picnic Site No 4 is more than just a place to eat. It’s a starting point for exploration. From here, you can embark on one of the five waymarked walks that crisscross the reserve. Four color-coded walks, ranging from 3 to 10 kilometers, cater to different fitness levels. There’s also a one-kilometer Nature Trail, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Informative signs along the trail reveal the secrets of the subtropical forest. You can easily switch between trails. Getting lost is nearly impossible. As you wander, keep an eye out for the large, brown leaves carpeting the ground. These belong to the Castanopsis fissa, a valuable timber tree once used for crafting agricultural tools. Picnic Site No 4, Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve offers a sanctuary for nature lovers. It’s a place to connect with the wild, to breathe in the fresh air, and to appreciate the beauty of Hong Kong’s natural heritage. So, unpack your lunch, relax, and let the stories of Tai Po Kau unfold around you.