Ever wonder what it feels like to stand atop a hill that was once an island? That is Nga Ying Shan.
Nga Ying Shan stands on what was once an island off the northeast shore of Tsing Yi Island. This island was separated by a small harbour called Mun Tsai Tong. Tsuen Wan was just across the Rambler Channel.
Imagine this small harbour being reclaimed. It was for a new town’s development. This act connected the island to Tsing Yi Island. So Nga Ying Shan became a part of Tsing Yi Island.
Once, the CRC Oil Storage Depot called this island home. As residential areas grew closer, the depot moved to the other side of Tsing Yi Island. Now, Villa Esplanada, a private housing estate, sits where the island’s hills once rolled.
Today, Nga Ying Shan is a small hill on the northeast point of Tsing Yi Island. A nearby park shares its name. It is called Nga Ying Chau Garden.
Hiking Nga Ying Shan offers stunning views. The path covers about 9km. It takes around 3 hours to complete. The ascent is 548m. The descent is 540m. The highest point is 356m.
Hikers say Nga Ying Shan has views like a “Shangri-La”. Some even claim to have seen “angel light” illuminating the fields nearby.
However, be prepared for some challenges. Parts of the trail can be overgrown. Snakes have been spotted along the way. Wearing long sleeves and pants is recommended. This protects you from the overgrown vines. Proper hiking shoes are also important. They provide good grip on the steeper sections.
A trekking pole can be useful too. Bringing a headlamp or flashlight is a good idea. And remember to pack plenty of water and food.
Recent reports indicate some paths may be blocked due to landslides. Exercise caution. New paths may have formed due to hikers traversing the area.
Nga Ying Shan’s viewing platform might have a new name. Locals report it may now be called Nga Ying Shan Viewing Point.
So, as you stand here on Nga Ying Shan, remember its transformation. From an island to a hill, it connects to Tsing Yi Island. It is a testament to Hong Kong’s ever-changing landscape. Take in the views. Breathe in the history. And appreciate this unique spot where land and sea once met.