Leung Tin Au

Did you ever hear of a Grand Canyon in Hong Kong? Probably not. But high above Tuen Mun, nestled between the Shan King and Leung King Estates, lies Leung Tin Au Valley. It’s often called the “Pineapple Mountain Canyon” or even Hong Kong’s Grand Canyon. Leung Tin Au isn’t as massive as its American counterpart. Yet, this valley, carved by centuries of weathering and erosion, offers a dramatic landscape. The journey to Leung Tin Au begins at the Siu Hong MTR station. From there, a short light rail ride to San Wai stop, followed by a walk through Leung King Estate, leads to Castle Peak Road. This road, mostly a gentle slope, marks the start of your hike. As you ascend Castle Peak Road, you’ll pass the “Pineapple Mountain Pavilion”. This might be the origin of the nickname “Pineapple Mountain Valley”. Further up, you’ll encounter a large iron gate. This gate once marked the boundary of a restricted military zone. While often closed in the past, it is now generally open. Keep an eye out for any red warning signs indicating firing practice within the nearby shooting range. The road continues to wind uphill. You’ll find stone chairs and tables, perfect for a quick rest, fashioned by local residents. At a small plateau, the path diverges. Three options appear: one towards Castle Peak, and two descending into the valley. The middle path offers the easiest descent. As you approach Leung Tin Au, the effects of erosion become striking. The weathered rock formations create an otherworldly scene. From this vantage point, you can even glimpse Shenzhen in the distance. The valley itself is over 20 meters deep, a testament to the power of nature. Exercise caution as you explore this unique landscape. The Leung Tin Au Valley is a hidden gem. It offers a dramatic contrast to the bustling city below. The hike takes approximately two hours without the return trip. You can retrace your steps or descend towards Ha Pak Nai, a beautiful spot for sunset viewing.