Picture this You stand before Hung Shek Mun Village a hidden gem on Hong Kong’s northeast coast. The village itself is a testament to time. Derelict houses stand as silent witnesses to a life lived close to nature. The reddish coastline a striking contrast to the green hills and islands in the background is a marvel of natural oxidation. Iron in the rocky sediments has rusted creating this unique landscape.
Hung Shek Mun Village is not easily reached. Its remote location and treacherous trails make it a challenge for even experienced hikers. The journey requires a seven-hour trek spanning 16 kilometers. Thick bushes and trees obscure the path. You need a good map and plenty of water and food. The trails are not obvious. Only experienced hikers should attempt the journey.
Imagine the journey. You begin at Tai Po Market Railway Station. You take a minibus to Wu Kau Tang. From the car park a path leads to the back. There is a map board. Turn left at the junction to Sam A Tsuen. Follow the Kau Tam Tso sign to the right. You will traverse the Miu Sam Ancient Path. You will pass Sheung Miu Tin and then Ha Miu Tin. These are abandoned villages. Nature has reclaimed these places. They offer a glimpse into the past.
After Ha Miu Tin you take the trail to Tai Tung. This is an uphill climb. You will pass more derelict houses. You reach the Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail. Follow the Luk Wu Tong sign towards Mount Newland. The red rocks will become visible. A warning notice marks a junction. Take the left path a dense and overgrown route. Ribbons on the trees and a rock arrow mark the trail to Hung Shek Mun.
The final descent is steep. It takes at least an hour and a half to reach the bottom. There is a small reservoir. A dilapidated house is nearby. Then finally you reach Hung Shek Mun. A small reservoir was built here in 1972 to supply water to Crooked Island. The dam on the right was built for fish farming. Water flows into the dam when the tide is high. The hole in the embankment allows this flow. The villagers understood the natural flow of the tide.
Hung Shek Mun is more than just a coastline. It is a testament to resilience. The village’s history is interwoven with the landscape. The reddish rocks the abandoned houses the challenging journey all combine to create a powerful and unforgettable experience. The journey back is the same way you came. Are you ready for the challenge?