Exploring Hung Fa Leng: A Journey Through Nature and History in Sha Tau Kok

Hung Fa Leng Country Park, located in the northeastern New Territories, is an ideal hiking destination that combines natural beauty with rich history. The hiking trails here are perfect for nature enthusiasts and family outings, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life. #### Overview of Hiking Trails The Hung Fa Leng Country Trail starts at the Tan Shui Hang stop on Sha Tau Kok Road. From there, a 30-minute walk leads to the trail entrance. The entire route takes approximately 2.5 hours, making it suitable for hikers of all levels. The scenery along the way is diverse and captivating. #### Key Attractions 1. **Ap Kung Kok**: - The first major stop along the trail is Ap Kung Kok. This spot offers expansive views of Sha Tau Kok and Shenzhen’s Yantian district. It’s an ideal resting point where hikers can enjoy the sea breeze and relax. 2. **Yi Tong and Sam Tong**: - Continuing onward, you’ll pass through Yi Tong and Sam Tong, areas known for their stunning natural landscapes. The refreshing sea breeze adds to the charm of these locations. 3. **Hung Fa Zai**: - The final destination is Hung Fa Zai, a vantage point for breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and the sea. From here, you can see the Pat Sin Leng and Wong Leng mountain ranges, offering a spectacular panorama. #### Mine Exploration Hung Fa Leng Country Park also features a unique attraction—the Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine. This mine is one of Hong Kong’s most important bat habitats and holds significant scientific value. Dating back to the 1860s, it was once the largest mining system in Hong Kong. Exploring the mine provides insights into mining history and the chance to observe various rare species, especially bats. #### Environmental Activities Visitors to Hung Fa Leng Country Park can participate in various environmental activities, such as cleanup campaigns. These initiatives not only raise environmental awareness but also embody the Scout spirit of "helping others," contributing to the preservation of nature. #### Transportation Information Getting to Hung Fa Leng Country Park is convenient. You can take minibus route 55K or KMB bus routes 78K, 277A, and 78S to the Tan Shui Hang stop. For the return journey, you can either retrace your steps to the starting point or follow the Lin Ma Hang Country Trail to Lin Ma Hang Village and take a minibus from there. #### Tips - **Wear comfortable shoes**: Some parts of the trail involve uphill and downhill sections, so suitable hiking shoes are recommended. - **Bring enough water and food**: Staying hydrated and energized is crucial during the hike. - **Check the weather**: Look at the forecast before heading out to avoid hiking in adverse conditions. This trip to Hung Fa Leng Country Park not only allowed me to admire magnificent natural scenery but also gave me the joy of exploring with friends. It’s a journey that will remain a cherished memory, inspiring me to discover more natural wonders.