Lion Rock Tunnel, Road tunnel in Sha Tin District, Hong Kong
The Lion Rock Tunnel connects Sha Tin in the New Territories with Kowloon through two parallel bores that run beneath the mountain for about 1,4 kilometers. The passage carries traffic in both directions, with each tunnel tube dedicated to vehicles traveling one way.
The original tunnel section began construction in 1961 as part of the Plover Cove water supply initiative and opened to vehicle traffic in 1967. A second bore was added later to handle the growing traffic demands of the rapidly developing region.
The passage represents a pivotal infrastructure achievement that transformed Sha Tin from agricultural land into a thriving urban center. Today it shapes the daily commute and economic activity for countless residents who depend on it to connect different parts of the region.
Drivers should be aware of the toll collection points at the Sha Tin entrance and watch for any lane restrictions or maintenance work. Travel through the tunnel is usually quick, but congestion can build up during peak commuting hours.
During construction, engineers achieved remarkable precision when the two excavation teams met underground with less than one centimeter of misalignment. This technical feat is considered extraordinary for such a large project and showcases the skill of the builders at that time.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
