“Rice Seedling Mountain?” The name itself sparks curiosity about Wo Yang Shan. Officially known as Wo Yang Shan, it is the sixth-highest peak in Hong Kong. It stands tall at 767 metres. That’s 2,516 feet high.
Wo Yang Shan sits in the heart of the New Territories. It lies between Tsuen Wan District and Tai Po District. You might also hear it called “Fake Tai Mo Shan”. This is because it stands to the south of Tai Mo Shan. It is slightly lower than 800 m.
Tai Mo Shan Country Park surrounds Wo Yang Shan. This park is right at Hong Kong’s geographical center. The park covers 1,440 hectares. That equals 3,560 acres. Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve lies to its east. Shing Mun Country Park sits to the south. Tai Lam Country Park borders the western side.
Many hikers start their journey to Wo Yang Shan from Chuen Lung. They pass Heung Shek Cemetery first. Then, they ascend Mui Ko Toi. Finally, they reach Wo Yang Shan. From there, hikers can head northwest to Tai Mo Shan. They might also go south to Lung Mun Country Trail. This trail leads back to Chuen Lung or Shing Mun Country Park.
One of the most spectacular routes up involves some scrambling. It includes a visit to the rock forest. The rocks have a very good grip. Ribbons mark the easiest route. But the most interesting route involves navigating boulders.
This area is also known as Acacia Rock Forest. Be cautious as you scramble. There are big gaps among the rocks. Some are 5-10m deep. Thorny vegetation also grows here. Gloves and pruning scissors might be useful.
Within the rocks of Wo Yang Shan itself, there are interesting formations to explore. After exploring, hikers begin their descent. The path ahead is steep and partly sandy.
The Stone Day Gate offers a picturesque spot. From here, you can see the city below. There are different options for going down. One slightly less steep path crosses an old pine section. This area is partly burned. The path connects with the Yuen Yuen Institute and temples. From there, you can take green minibuses or a taxi. You could also walk to Tai Wo Hau MTR station.
Another option: take a taxi to the Tai Mo Shan lookout car park. This removes most of the ascent. You will mainly be on the boulders themselves. A loop connects the top of the rock forest with a picturesque downhill path. This path leads towards Tsuen Wan.
Several other rock forests surround Wo Yang Shan. You can find rocky features to scramble on. The Double Triangle Stone Room and Stone Boat Stone Forest are among them. If you are ready for a long day out, start at Yuen Yuen Institute. Go to the red line, down Stone Boat stone forest. Then make your way to the Double Triangle chamber. From there, ascend through the main Acacia rock forest.
Wo Yang Shan offers more strenuous hiking. But it is very scenic. The summit is strewn with boulders. It is known for its rock forests. It provides a rewarding experience for those who venture to its peak.