Ng Tung Chai and Man Tak Yuen
15 March 2023
On another platform, I wrote about appreciating the beauty of the natural world. That was on my way to the highest peak in Hong Kong. It can be surprising sometimes to see more spots in the middle of the woods aside from trees, waterfalls, and others. A solo backpacker is always excited to discover new things, especially in unexpected places.
The first stage of my journey to the highest peak of Hong Kong was relatively easy with the help of the paved path. In the beginning, I had anticipated traveling alone the entire time, but I have been joined temporarily by these two elderly Chinese women.
Although it was my first time hiking this trail, I was aware that it was in a country park, so I initially anticipated seeing spacious parks, campsites, and other gathering places. However, it appears that I took the opposite, most secluded route. So just imagine myself alone in the woods if the two women weren't on the trail. It can occasionally be frightful to come across a tombstone along the path.
I came across a house that seemed to be abandoned. However, I didn't see the way going down to it so I just continued. I was asking myself, "Why is there a house in the woods?"
My question was answered as I continued walking when I spotted a peaceful village hidden in this mountain. That should have been an amazing place to explore, but my goal was to climb to the summit before sunset, so I might not have had enough time. I was thinking there might be a cozy cafe to dine in, but probably next time.
My journey continued and after more than half an hour of walking, I stumbled upon a private residential area at the bottom of the hill. Behind it, I could tell that there was a stream since I can hear the gushing water from the distance.
Such a view, with the mountainous backdrop and the creek at the back, reminded me of those on our farm. The exterior of the house made it clear that it is old. The owner can grow as much as he wants in the backyard, which is very spacious. Since it was midday, I saw some individuals down there, definitely the owners, and they appeared to be getting ready for lunch.
Who would have thought that a house could exist in the middle of a forest? I can only see such a view in our province. People who desire a simpler, more tranquil life would surely choose to live in this secluded and peaceful place.
As much as I wanted to visit the stream down there, I didn't have enough time so I continued. Besides, I didn't want to be left alone on the trail so I went after the two old women.
Near the private residence was another unexpected site that I mistakenly believed to be a Chinese graveyard. It is situated uphill and has stairs leading up to it.
I was left on the route alone as the two elderly women ascended the stairs. Poor Jane. No more company. Even though I was concerned about being alone on the route, I continued because I might not have enough time.
When I ascended the trail, I saw what I had initially assumed to be a cemetery was actually a temple or Taoist shrine resting atop the slope.
It's another hidden gem in Tai Mo Shan that I didn't see in my article guide. I thought of going back to explore it, but I halted when I checked the time. I might not be able to see the sunset if I will visit the temple.
After a few more walks and I stumbled upon a stream. I thought it was already the waterfalls they were referring to. But then I remembered that it's a series of waterfalls and the one in the photo was just part of it.
Despite being by myself on the route, I proceeded on my journey and would pause at each waterfall where I could see a few other hikers and believed I would have company. Yet it appeared that they came from the opposite route and were heading back toward where I had started. Some others appeared to be only interested in the waterfalls and not planning to walk to the summit.
You'll find out about this highest peak of Hong Kong soon once I completed my blog 😊.
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adventure is the name pf full enjoyment life