Shing Mun Reservoir Hike

If you wanna watch monkeys, this is the spot. Beware though, as they can be aggressive. There’s a loop trail that takes you around the reservoir. Walking on the dam is quite incredible, with an amazing view. BBQ pits are on the main road.

The Shing Mun reservoir is a great location to for a hike for two reasons: its actually right in the middle of town and its a great way to learn of a different side of town.
On the hills of Tsuen Wan, the reservoir was one of the many that were built in the 1930s as Hong Kong continued to grow as a city. The colonial outbuildings and walls surrounding the reservoir will leave you in no doubt that this was a British feat of engineering and at times you will wonder whether you are actually in Hong Kong. A commemorative wall at one part of the trail will also confirm that this reservoir was opened in time for jubilee celebrations for King George V. During WWII this location was also a pivotal location for the defence of Hong Kong as the Gindrinkers line was built along the side of this location and many fought here to prevent Hong Kong from falling to the Japanese forces.
History aside, this is a good trail for the entire family to enjoy. You won’t get any super steep hills and dangerous animals (aside from the super aggressive macaques– please don’t feed them). The sights are also beautiful as there seems to be surprises at every corner and the sights make it a welcome break away from Hong Kong’s masses of concrete blocks. You will see anglers fishing from the reservoir but please do obtain a license from AFCD before you do or you run the risk of being fined.
There is a BBQ site at the end of the trail (or the start if you come in that way) and at the weekends you will find cars parked on the side of the road and masses of people converging at the small site. Not a good time to come as there are just too many people, too much mess, kids running around and cars fighting to find somewhere to park. A far better choice would be to come over on a weekday and enjoy the quietness which is what you should be coming for.