Have you ever picnicked amongst the Hong Kong hills? Shing Mun Picnic Site No 3 is a delightful spot. It’s nestled within the Shing Mun Country Park. This park opened in 1977. Before that prototype picnic facilities were already there. They were funded by the Sir David Trench Fund for Recreation.
The picnic site itself is conveniently located. It’s away from the sometimes aggressive monkeys. These monkeys migrated from nearby Kam Shan Country Park. They are a common sight in Shing Mun Country Park. They can be delightful to watch if you don’t disturb them. However avoid feeding them. Feeding changes their natural behavior. It also increases their population.
Shing Mun Country Park is quite extensive. It’s 14 square kilometers. It boasts a variety of flora and fauna. This includes paperbark trees. They are easily identifiable by their peeling bark. They can grow up to 18 meters tall. The park is also known for its beautiful views. It has stunning panoramic vistas. You can see the reservoir below. You can also see Lion Rock and Tai Mo Shan in the distance.
The park has a fascinating history. Much of the park’s trees were cut down during World War II. After the war extensive reforestation was carried out. The area was a major forest plantation. Remains from the war can still be seen today. Parts of the Gin Drinker’s Line are still there. This line of defenses included trenches pillboxes and military marker stones.
Shing Mun Picnic Site No 3 offers more than just a place to eat. It’s a gateway to exploring the park’s trails. You can hike along the reservoir’s edge. You can wander through the paperbark grove. There is also the Pineapple Dam Nature Trail. The park even has a visitor center. You can find information about the park’s history and ecology there.
So enjoy your picnic. Take in the scenery and the fresh air. Remember Shing Mun Picnic Site No 3 is more than a picnic spot. It is a slice of Hong Kong’s natural and historical heritage. It offers a memorable day out for the whole family.