Complete Guide to Hiking Lai Chi Wo in Hong Kong: A Journey into the Enchanted Green Wilderness

🇭🇰【Lai Chi Wo】 Located in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong and part of the Plover Cove Country Park, Lai Chi Wo is one of Hong Kong's oldest, largest, and best-preserved villages, with a history spanning over 400 years. It was ranked fifth in Lonely Planet's "Top 10 Travel Destinations in Asia." This area boasts authentic Hakka culture and pristine natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for outdoor hiking enthusiasts. 📝 Important Tips: Preparation: Documents: Ensure your Hong Kong and Macau travel permit is valid with the appropriate endorsements. You can check nearby 24-hour self-service renewal machines via the Shenzhen Immigration WeChat official account. Transportation Costs: Carry sufficient Hong Kong dollars in cash for minibus fares and food purchases. Alternatively, get an Octopus card in advance for easier travel. Gear: Backpack, comfortable hiking shoes, sun-protective clothing, hat, sunscreen, rain gear (for sudden weather changes), power bank, personal medication (e.g., band-aids, Huoxiang Zhengqi Shui, etc.). Food and Water: Bring at least 2 liters of water and energy-boosting snacks like beef jerky, bread, and fruits. Route Planning: Classic Route: Bride's Pool - Wu Kau Tang - Kau Tam Tso - Sheung Miu Tin - Ha Miu Tin - Sam A Tsuen - Lai Chi Wo Total distance: ~10 km, with an average hiking time of 3.5 hours (excluding breaks). Wu Kau Tang: The starting point of the hike, originally named Wu Kau Tin. The engraved name "Wu Kau Tin" on a nearby stone marker is still visible. From here, follow the dirt path through lush greenery, where intertwined branches of white-flowered Derris tell ancient tales. Kau Tam Tso: If you're lucky, you might spot maple leaves here. Though smaller in scale compared to Tai Tong's maple forests, they look stunning under the slanting sunlight. Sheung Miu Tin & Ha Miu Tin: Tranquil rural scenery where you may encounter villagers working, adding a lively touch. Sam A Tsuen: Enjoy the natural beauty along the way and experience the serenity of Hong Kong's countryside. Lai Chi Wo: Arrive at this 400-year-old Hakka village, where houses are arranged in a three-vertical, nine-horizontal feng shui layout, surrounded by feng shui woods and mangroves. Explore temples and cannons, reliving its past prosperity, and try homemade rice cakes and coffee at the village entrance. ⚠️【Precautions】 1. The weather is unpredictable lately—bring rain gear. 2. Stay hydrated and pack enough snacks for the heat. 3. The trail is shaded—take mosquito repellent measures. 4. Though leisurely, wear proper hiking shoes. 5. Leave no trace—carry a trash bag for waste. 6. Respect nature—safety is the ultimate goal of outdoor adventures. 🚖【Transportation】 To the Starting Point: 1. From Tai Po Market MTR Station Exit B, walk to the Tai Po Market Public Transport Interchange and take minibus 20R to Bride's Pool Nature Trail (~40 mins). 2. On Sundays/public holidays, take bus 275R from the same interchange to Bride's Pool Bus Terminus. 3. Take a taxi directly from Lok Ma Chau to Bride's Pool Nature Trail. From the End Point: ● On Sundays/public holidays, a ferry departs from Lai Chi Wo to Ma Liu Shui at 3:30 PM (~90 mins). Walk ~15 mins to University MTR Station afterward. ● Alternatively, retrace your steps to Wu Kau Tang Village and take minibus 20R back to Tai Po Market MTR Station.