What if I told you that the Tung Chung Hau holds secrets to Hong Kong’s past? The Tung Chung Hau is part of the Tung O Ancient Trail. It connects Tung Chung to Tai O. This trail reveals Hong Kong’s blend of modern and historic elements. It shows the contrast between urban and rural life.
The Tung O Ancient Trail, also called the Tung Tai Trail, was once a vital route. It linked villages before Tung Chung’s urbanization. Today, some locals still use it. They live in small settlements along the path.
The Tung Chung Hau might not have the most scenic views. However, its historical importance is undeniable. It offers glimpses into old Chinese settlements. It provides a look at a bygone era. Coastal views add to its charm. The path is well-paved with clear signs. Public toilets are available. Small village stores offer refreshments.
The Tung O hike is mostly flat. It stretches about 15 kilometers. It takes around four and a half hours to complete. Some say six hours, but that’s unlikely. Exploring Tai O adds to the journey. Be sure to finish before dark. The final section has unpaved dirt paths without lights. Rain can make navigation tricky. Streams and waterfalls may swell.
Start the trail from Tung Chung to fully explore Tai O. This lets you see one of Hong Kong’s last fishing villages. Take buses 39M, B6, E21A, or E31 from Yu Tung Court. Get off at Mun Tung Estate Mun Wo House. It’s near the path to the temple. Turn left at the public toilet. Follow the trail along the coastline.
The Tung O Ancient Trail passes Tung Chung Bay. It goes by Hau Kok Wan and Sha Lo Wan. It continues through San Shek Wan and Sham Wat Wan. Finally, it reaches Tai O. Early in the hike, you will see Chek Lap Kok Airport across the water. Expect noise from planes. Notice the land reclamation work along Tung Chung’s coast. The urban development contrasts with the shanty towns along the trail.
There is mainly one road to follow. It is hard to get lost. One can branch off to San Tau Pier. Another detour is at Sha Lo Wan. A path leads to the beach.
The Tung Chung Hau trail runs past Sham Shek Tsuen. You’ll see village houses shrines and farms among greenery. The Ngong Ping 360 cable car runs in the distance. A path leads to San Shek Wan Pier. Locals sell refreshments in the villages. Support these small businesses.
Enjoy Hong Kong’s waterfront views. See beaches swamps and mangroves. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is in the background. After Sham Wat Wan cross the bridge. Take the next path right. This continues to Tai O.
About halfway between Sham Wat and Tai O the paved path ends. A rocky dirt trail begins. This part feels more adventurous. The path nears the shoreline. When you see the mouth of a river with temples you’ve reached Tai O. These temples are Yeung Hau and Tai Wong.
Explore the stilt houses of Tai O. Follow Sun Ki Street. Cross the bridge to the stores and restaurants. Sun Ki Bridge offers great photo opportunities. Admire the water stilt houses and mountains.
Don’t leave without trying the street food. Enjoy egg waffles on Shek Tsai Po Street. An old man makes them over a charcoal fire. Try the curry fish balls and roasted cuttlefish.
As you leave this fishing village buy dried seafood or shrimp paste. The Tai O bus terminus is near the promenade. Bus 11 returns to Tung Chung Station in about half an hour. The Tung Chung Hau offers a memorable journey. It connects you to Hong Kong’s past and present.