Tuen Mun
Introduction
You can explore the deep history of Tuen Mun, an area situated near the mouth of the Tuen Mun River and Castle Peak Bay in the western New Territories. This region holds significant historical roots as one of the earliest settlements in what is now Hong Kong, with origins dating back to the Neolithic period.
While it was once a hub for Tanka fishermen gathering at Castle Peak Bay, you will find that Tuen Mun has evolved into a modern residential area in the north-west New Territories.
Before you go
When exploring the local villages, you should remain mindful of the large dogs owned by residents. While these animals will bark at strangers, they typically do not pose a threat to people.
Ensure you practice safety by putting out any embers before you leave an area.
Getting there
You can reach Tuen Mun via several rail options, including the Tuen Ma Line which stretches from west to east through areas like Tin Shui Wai and Kai Tak. If you are traveling from the airport, various bus routes provide direct access to the region. For those exploring the local area, the MTR operates local bus routes that connect residential areas and villages to major railway stations.
The New Territories offers a cyclist's paradise with quiet countryside roads, mountain bike trails, and the dedicated NT Cycle Track Network stretching from Tuen Mun toward Ma On Shan. You can also take a ferry from Tuen Mun Ferry Pier to Tai O, passing through Tung Chung and Sha Lo Wan.
Getting around
Navigating the western side of the New Territories, including Tuen Mun and Yuen Long, is convenient for your travels. You can utilize the Light Rail network to move between areas such as Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, and Tuen Mun. If you use an Octopus card, you can benefit from a fare discount when transferring between the Tuen Ma line and the Light Rail system.
Be aware that certain regions near the border with mainland China are designated as frontier closed areas. You cannot enter these zones without a permit unless you are crossing the border. While most permits for these areas are not issued for tourism, you can obtain a specific permit to visit the town of Sha Tau Kok by applying online or by joining an approved group tour.
Where to stay
Depending on your preferred style of stay, you can find various accommodations across different neighborhoods. For those seeking a more rustic experience, hostels are available in the rural New Territories areas of Tai Po and Sha Tin. These locations offer proximity to nature, with options near scenic reservoirs or nestled in mountainous terrain where friendly staff provide meals and laundry services.
If you prefer a mid-range stay, you can find hotels in Tsuen Wan that feature large outdoor pools and gyms, or properties situated between beaches offering modern designs and sea views. For a more luxurious experience, choose from several options in the Sha Tin area. These high-end accommodations offer amenities such as spas, heated pools, and jacuzzis, with some providing convenient access to local shopping malls and others overlooking the Shing Mun River. You can also find serviced suites in Tin Shui Wai that overlook a central park.
Food & drink
You can find a variety of dining options throughout the New Territories, ranging from familiar international chains like McDonald's and Saizeriya to local staples such as Café de Coral and Fairwoods. These chains provide standardized menus that are easy to navigate even if you do not speak the local language. For a quicker option, neighborhood bakeries offer a selection of sweet and savory filled breads. If you prefer local cuisine, the region offers a wide range of traditional dishes at accessible prices, though many independent restaurants may lack English menus or staff who speak English.
Depending on your preference for atmosphere and cuisine, you can explore several distinct dining scenes:
- In Tuen Mun, you can enjoy famous roast goose or visit specialized establishments for Shanghainese dishes like dan dan noodles and hot and sour soup.
- For seafood lovers, the quayside in Sai Kung features restaurants where you can select your fish from an aquarium, while other nearby eateries offer a mix of local and Western fare.
- If you prefer a more local feel, the area around Tai Po Market offers pubs and country clubs that provide a friendlier atmosphere than the central districts of Hong Kong Island.
What to see and do
Experience the rural charm and natural landscapes of the New Territories, which offer a slower pace of life compared to the urban energy of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. You can explore the coastal scenery and mountainous terrain of the Sai Kung Peninsula or find tranquility in the nature-focused areas of the region. For those seeking outdoor adventure, you can hike the Maclehose Trail, navigate through various terrains including dirt and rock, or tackle the steep slopes of Sharp Peak for expansive views from the top.
Explore local history and culture through several distinct sites:
- Visit Red House in Tuen Mun to see a memorial building featuring a blend of Chinese and Western architecture.
- Walk the Ping Shan Heritage Trail in Tin Shui Wai to view historical structures like the Tsui Sing Lau pagoda and various ancestral halls.
- Stroll through Hong Kong Wetland Park, where you can navigate boardwalks over marshy areas and observe birds from a tower.
- Discover unique geological features within the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark or visit the Fung Yuen Butterfly Reserve to see numerous butterfly species.
- Explore cultural landmarks such as the Castle Peak Monastery, one of the oldest temples in the region, or the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery.
Three days in Tuen Mun
Day one, you begin your journey in the New Territories by exploring the local surroundings of Tuen Mun. You can navigate the area to experience the local atmosphere and enjoy the sights along the Tuen Mun River.
Day two, you travel toward Castle Peak Bay or explore the nearby regions of Sha Lo Wan and Yuen Long. You can utilize the MTR system or the Light Rail network to move between these locations while keeping your Octopus card ready for easy transit.
Day three, you head toward the coastal areas near Tuen Mun Ferry Pier or visit other parts of the New Territories such as Sha Tau Kok and Tsuen Wan. You can finish your trip by exploring the local scenery in these distinct neighborhoods.