If you’re searching for a peaceful escape in Hong Kong this summer, Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve is the perfect destination. It might not have those jaw-dropping Instagrammable views, but what it does offer is something better: tranquility. This 460-hectare forest reserve is a haven for nature lovers, featuring over 100 species of trees and a rich array of wildlife that attracts naturalists and biologists alike.
My sister and I stumbled upon this when searching for a hiking place that is manageable for our elderly parents. To avoid previous mistakes (we mistakenly took our parents to a 3-star difficulty hike instead of a 1-star difficulty hike XD), we decided to visit Tai Po Kau for a quick assessment before bringing our parents here. The assessment turned into a much-needed “forest bathing” for both of us. Forest bathing is translated from a Japanese concept called “shinrin-yoku”, which means immersing yourself in nature, observing your surroundings, and letting the calm of the forest melt your stress away. Living in a fast-paced city like Hong Kong, this was exactly what we needed to disconnect and recharge.
Getting There
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve is tucked away in the New Territories, far from the hustle and bustle of the city. But getting there is easier than you’d think!
By bus:
- 72: Cheung Sha Wan ~ Tai Wo
- 72A: Tai Wai MTR Station ~ Tai Po Industrial Estate
- 73A: Yu Chui Court ~ Wah Ming
- 74A: Kai Yip ~ Tai Wo
Or take the MTR to Tai Po Market Station, then hop on Minibus 28K. Get off at Chung Tsai Yuen.
For First-Time Visitors: Octopus Cards
If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time, you’ll quickly notice how convenient public transport is. One thing you’ll definitely need is an Octopus Card. This rechargeable smart card can be used for buses, minibuses, MTR, ferries, and even purchases at convenience stores or restaurants.
For Tai Po Kau, you’ll need an Octopus Card to pay for the MTR, buses, or minibuses. It’s super easy to top up at any convenience store or MTR station. Trust me, it’ll make your travels around Hong Kong a breeze!
*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you click on the link and purchase an item, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve Trails Overview
There are four trails in Tai Po Kau, each color-coded and offering different distances and difficulty levels:
- Red Trail: 3km (~1 hour)
- Blue Trail: 4km (~1–2 hours)
- Brown Trail: 7km (~2.5 hours)
- Yellow Trail: 10km (~3.5 hours)
The trails occasionally intersect, so it’s easy to switch paths without worrying about getting lost. There’s even a 1km Nature Trail —a great choice if you’re short on time.
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve
Introduction
Walking through the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve felt like stepping into a lush, subtropical paradise. The reserve is home to over 160 bird species, 102 butterfly species, and 50 dragonfly species, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. We visited in mid-May, and although it was starting to get hot in Hong Kong, the trails were shaded enough to make the walk pleasant and manageable.
Trail Highlight and Our Experience
We started our adventure at the entrance, where a short incline on a concrete road led us to the trailheads. From there, we chose the Blue Trail, a 4km circular loop that’s perfect for beginners. The first stretch of the trail followed a serene stream, and the sound of flowing water combined with the songs of hidden birds created the most relaxing atmosphere.
Wildlife Spotting
Wildlife spotting turned into an exciting mini-game for us. While we didn’t manage to see many birds (they’re experts at camouflage), we did hear them chirping in the canopy above. One of the highlights was spotting a small skink darting across the trail. It was so well-camouflaged against the fallen leaves that we almost missed it! We also encountered a monkey, but it ran away quickly before I could take a picture. We also came across colorful wild mushrooms and vibrant flowers, which added a splash of color to the forest floor.
About halfway through the trail, we reached a picnic area. While it’s a great spot to sit and rest, keep in mind that no barbecue pits are provided, and fires are strictly prohibited to protect the natural environment. After a quick snack break, we continued following the blue signs, which guided us across a stream and back toward the starting point.
Tai Po Kau Outdoor Study Centre
Before heading back to the starting point, we decided to take a short detour to check out the Tai Po Kau Outdoor Study Centre, located near the trails. There, we spotted a pond filled with amphibians and got a closer look at some of the local birds. It was still difficult to take a clear picture, as it was hiding behind the bushes. It was a delightful way to wrap up our visit and added an educational twist to our trip.
One unexpected highlight of the day was spotting the Guan Yin Statue from Tsz Shan Monastery on our way back. The statue stood majestically in the distance, and it was a pleasant surprise to see such a spiritual landmark amidst the natural beauty of Tai Po Kau. If you have extra time, I highly recommend visiting the monastery—it’s a serene and peaceful place that perfectly complements a day spent reconnecting with nature.
By the time we made it back to the entrance, we were tired but refreshed. The shaded paths, calming streams, and occasional wildlife sightings made the day feel like a true escape from the city’s chaos.
Stay Safe While Hiking
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve is a safe and well-maintained hiking spot, but it’s good to be prepared. Some parts of the forest have poor signal reception, so it’s best to let someone know your plan before heading out.
Even though the trails are color-coded and easy to follow, hiking with a friend or family member is always a good idea. It’s safer, and you’ll have someone to share the experience with!
Tips for Your Visit
- Facilities: There are toilets near the entrance and a few picnic areas along the trails.
- What to Bring: Sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water, some snacks, and maybe a hiking stick if you’re tackling a longer trail.
- Best Time to Visit: The trails are shaded, making summer walks doable, but different seasons bring different wildlife. In summer, look out for cuckoos and Black Drongos. Winter is better for butterflies, owls, and wagtails. For list of birds that you might encounter, check out the official website
- Before your trip, decide with your friends which trail you want to hike, so you have a better grasp of time needed to finish the whole trail.
Remember, Tai Po Kau is a protected area, and it’s our duty to keep it that way. Always pack out what you pack in, stick to the designated trails, and avoid disturbing the wildlife. Little actions like these go a long way in preserving the beauty of this special place for generations to come.
Conclusion
Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve isn’t just a hike—it’s an experience. Whether you’re looking to slow down, reconnect with nature, or simply enjoy the beauty of a subtropical forest, this place has it all.
For us, it was the perfect escape from Hong Kong’s urban chaos. The trails are beginner-friendly, the surroundings are serene, and the biodiversity is incredible. We loved the streams, the shaded paths, and even the little skinks darting through the leaves.
If you’re stressed or overwhelmed, I highly recommend a trip to Tai Po Kau. Pack light, grab your Octopus Card, and bring a sense of adventure—this forest is ready to work its magic on you. Happy hiking!
Other Family-Friendly Hikes
I hope this post gives you an idea of what to expect from Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve (Blue trail). The path is well-maintained, I think kids and elders can take on the red or blue trail if they are comfortable with the stairs. Unfortunately, the trail is not stroller-friendly or wheelchair-friendly.
If you like family-friendly hikes, I recommend trying reservoir hikes in Hong Kong. These are easy hikes perfect for beginners. Check these out:
Is Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve on your list, or have you visited the other trails? Let me know in the comments.