The Hong Kong Falls
Ophelia Lui finds the local waterfalls.
Instead of huddling in air-conditioned safety over the weekends, beat the summer heat by visiting one of the waterfalls in town – you’ll be amazed what’s hidden in the Hong Kong greenery.
Wong Lung Stream
Lantau North Country Park, Tung Chung
This is the most difficult stream to reach, but that just means it has the least pollution. At the lower stream, the water at the Wong Lung Falls drops along the stairway-like cliff from 70 feet above. The wide pool at the base of the falls has extremely clear water, making it the perfect spot for swimming. Upstream are the Left Dragon Falls, with two drops that span over 300 feet. And for daring hikers after something more than mere waterfalls, continue upstream for “The Three Perils of Wong Lung” where you’ll make your way through the exciting zigzag trail: cliff face on one side, sheer drop on the other.
Tip: This area is very physically demanding and difficult to reach – only attempt it if you are an experienced hiker.
Getting there: Walk to Tat Tung Rd. from Tung Chung MTR station, turn left to enter Shun Tung Rd. Cross the bridge near the fire station and turn left onto Wong Lung Hang Rd. Passing through Chek Lap Kok Village, you’ll walk for about 20 minutes to reach the lower course of Wong Lung Stream.
Bride’s Pool
Plover Cove Country Park, Tai Po
Bride’s Pool is named after the ghost story about a bride who fell out of her bridal sedan chair and was drowned in this stream. But its spooky heritage doesn’t stop local nature-lovers from visiting. The pretty 70-foot-high falls make for great postcard pictures, and it’s a mere 15-minute walk from the Tai Mei Tuk barbecue area. Nearby, you can also check out the Mirror Pool Falls. If you have the skill set and are looking for excitement, climb down the steep embankment near the car park on the Bride’s Pool Road to reach it.
Tip: Never go after rain – it’s very dangerous, even for the experienced.
Getting there: On weekdays, take minibus 20C from Tai Po Market KCR station and ask the driver to let you know when you’re nearing Bride’s Pool. On Sundays and public holidays, take the 275R from Tai Po Market KCR station.
Ng Tung Chai Stream
Tai Mo Shan Country Park, New Territories
Ng Tung Chai is the highest waterfall in Hong Kong, located on the city’s tallest peak, Tai Mo Shan. It’s also the longest single-drop waterfall at 120 feet. With its great height you can see the waterfall from as far as three kilometers away, and thanks to its location along an easy hiking track it’s a popular (and romantic) picnic spot. There are also two other falls nearby that are worth seeing: the Straggling-Hair Falls and the Maiden Falls (actually a group of waterfalls). These are comparatively quieter.