Description: Take the MTR to Kowloon Tong Station, transfer to the KCR East Rail to the Tai Wai KCR Station. Once a walled city known for incense, now it is known for temples and trails. A footbridge complete with signs, indicates the way to the
Che Kung Temple on Che Kung Miu Road.
Sha Tin Villagers dedicated a Taoist temple to honor former military general Che Kung who defended the area from floods and plague during the Song Dynasty. Even the Emperor honored him for quelling an uprising in China. Now Che Kung is worshipped for the good luck he brings the town. The temple features a huge statue of him clad in armor with his hands resting on a sword pointed into the ground and incense pots by his shoes. There is also an excellent display of various weapons attached to the end of long poles.
Moreover a copper windmill brings good luck to those that turn the fan and beat the drum. Due to the increasing popularity of the Che Kung Festival, the Chinese Temples Committee had the present temple built in 1993. On the other hand, the old temple, albeit rebuilt, remains and is open from 6 to 7. Unfortunately photography is not permitted inside the temple.
Continue east on Che Kung Miu Road following signs to
Tsang Tai Uk Village via a tunnel crossing Lion Rock Road. Tsang Tai Uk, far from being the oldest village, was built about 130 years ago by a stonemason, apparently wealthy enough to build an entire village for his family lineage. This explains why the appearance of this town and architecture differs from surrounding vicinities. Figures and objects on roofs are there to deter the evil spirits.
On Lion Rock Road heading west, cross the bridge of the Shing Mun River Channel to the museum.
Hong Kong Heritage Museum includes a dozen galleries connected by corridors designed in typical Chinese style. Displays of art, history, and cultural items both permanently and temporarily exhibited fill the various rooms. The 5-storey museum has a souvenir shop and café and is open from 10 to 6, closed on Tuesdays.
On the other side of Lion Rock Road is
Sha Tin Park, an expansive green park paralleling the river. With waterfalls, bridges, and banyan trees this is an excellent place to take a picnic break. The scenery provides serene photo opportunities. The area is open 6: 30-11.
The path in the park leads to signs indicating the way to the
Central Library and
Town Hall. There are a variety of dance and musical performances and exhibits. Directly opposite is the
New Town Plaza with shops and restaurants open until 10pm. Signs indicate the way to the Sha Tin KCR station or cross Tai Po Road to visit the
Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery. Close