Thousand Island Lake Scenic Platform｜A One-Day Hiking Trip to Hong Kong's Thousand Island Lake

Thousand Island Lake Scenic Platform is located at Tai Lam Chung Reservoir in Tai Lam Country Park, New Territories. Built in 2019, the reservoir is dotted with numerous small islands resembling Zhejiang's Thousand Island Lake, earning it the nickname "Hong Kong's Thousand Island Lake." The platform offers a 270-degree panoramic view. During spring and summer, the reservoir is full, and the islands are scattered like stars. In autumn and winter, visitors can enjoy the red leaves of Tai Tong, making it a popular hiking and photo spot. Morning: Hiking to the Scenic Platform Start from Tai Tong in Yuen Long and take the red minibus or K66 bus to Tai Tong Shan Road Station. Follow the Tai Lam Forest Track via Section 10 of the MacLehose Trail (M181-M182) for about 1.5 hours to reach the Scenic Platform. The first part of the route is a flat asphalt road, while the latter part includes steps, making it suitable for beginners. From the platform, you can overlook the reservoir, where islands and mountain ranges intertwine, creating a magnificent view. Noon: Picnic and Rest There are no restaurants near the Scenic Platform, so it's recommended to bring light snacks for a picnic at Tai Tong BBQ Site, which has a snack kiosk and free water dispensers. Alternatively, you can rest by Wong Nai Tun Reservoir and enjoy the tranquil scenery of the small reservoir. Afternoon: Red Leaves and Exploration In autumn (November-December), you can visit Tai Tong Sweet Gum Woods to capture the fiery red leaves. Continue along the MacLehose Trail to So Kwun Wat Village, which takes about an hour downhill, where you can see silvergrass (in autumn). Or return to Tai Tong to explore the pastoral scenery of Pak Kung Au. Transportation and Tips Transportation: Take K66 or the red minibus from Yuen Long Station to Tai Tong; for the return trip, take minibus 43 from So Kwun Wat to Tuen Mun. Drivers can park at Tai Tong Parking Lot ($50/day). Time: The entire trip takes about 3-4 hours. It's recommended to start at 7-8 AM to avoid holiday crowds. Tips: Wear hiking shoes and bring water (at least 1 liter), sunscreen, and mosquito repellent. Do not leave the Scenic Platform's railing to protect vegetation. Take your trash with you and care for the environment.