A miniature castle stands before us. But it is actually the Shui Long Wo Star Lookout. This striking stone structure is six metres high. Lush forest trees surround it. We are at the entrance to Kei Ling Ha Tree Walk.
Shui Long Wo Star Lookout is more than just a pretty structure. It is a replica. It imitates the Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory. The original observatory was built in Henan province. This happened in 1276. Kublai Khan ordered its construction. Its purpose was to record time. It also tracked the movement of the sun and stars.
Today, the Shui Long Wo Star Lookout offers a unique experience. It connects us to ancient astronomical practices. It reminds us of humanity’s enduring fascination. We gaze at the stars.
Imagine scholars of old. They meticulously charted the heavens. They sought to understand our place in the cosmos. The Gaocheng Astronomical Observatory was their window to the universe. The Shui Long Wo Star Lookout brings that history to life.
Here at Shui Long Wo Star Lookout, you can start a challenging hike. It lies in Ma On Shan Country Park. The hike covers part of MacLehose Trail Section 4. This trail offers some of Hong Kong’s most breathtaking scenery.
The steep trail can be tiring. But it is worth it. Look back to photograph the stunning hill-flanked waters. You can see Three Fathoms Cove. Other Instagram spots include Pyramid Hill. It stands 536-metre-high. Also enjoy panoramic views from Ngong Ping Viewing Point. It overlooks Sai Kung Town. It commands vistas of the coves. You can see the islands of Inner Port Shelter.
Two drink vending machines stand nearby. There are also two water filling stations. One is free to use. This is near the public toilet. Remember to bring your own reusable water bottle. There are no other refills until Sai Kung Town.
Ngong Ping plateau is a grassy area. It sits at the base of Pyramid Hill. It is a popular resting place. Sometimes you can spot a herd of brown cattle. Ngong Ping offers breathtaking scenery. You can look out towards Sai Kung’s Port Shelter. You can also see the South China Sea.
Paragliders favour Ngong Ping. They launch off the steep incline. If the wind is right, you might see them.
From Ngong Ping, you can descend to Tai Shui Tseng Village. You can rejoin MacLehose Trail Section 4. Walk a few hundred metres. Look for a map board and signpost. The Ma On Shan Country Trail goes down to Tai Shui Tseng. This village is the start of Tai Shui Tseng Ancient Trail. It once linked Sai Kung with Sha Tin. Today, it is known as the start of the hike to Ngong Ping plateau.
Sai Kung is perfect for relaxing. Stroll along the promenade. Watch boats bobbing on the sea. Enjoy the atmosphere of this former fishing village. Many come to eat seafood. You can also find Western and Thai restaurants. They are along Yi Chun and Man Nin streets. Small restaurants offer food and noodles. They also serve local delicacies.
To get here, take bus 299X. You can also take 289R on Saturdays and public holidays. Get off at Shui Long Wo bus stop. You can ride the MTR Tuen Ma Line. Get off at Wu Kai Sha Station. Take bus 99 or 99R from there. The entrance to Shui Long Wo Star Lookout is near the car park. It is on the opposite side of the road.
Leaving Shui Long Wo Star Lookout, we carry more than just memories. We carry a connection to the past. We have a newfound appreciation. It is for the timeless quest to understand the stars.