Hok Tau Reservoir, reservoir in New Territories, Hong Kong
Hok Tau Reservoir is a crescent-shaped water body holding about 180,000 cubic meters and is fed by the Tan Shan River, serving mainly irrigation and local water needs. It sits within Pat Sin Leng Country Park and is surrounded by green hills and forest, with a control dam that manages water flow and prevents flooding.
The reservoir was built to meet growing water needs of rural communities in Hong Kong's northeast as part of a larger water management system developed over decades. Though relatively newer compared to other reservoirs, it has become an established part of local infrastructure serving both villages and farms.
The name comes from the nearby village of Hok Tau Wai, linking the water system to the rural community that depends on it. Today visitors can see how locals use the area for weekend gatherings, picnics, and quiet escapes from the city, making it a social hub for outdoor relaxation.
The easy Hok Tau Family Walk circles the reservoir for about 2.5 kilometers taking roughly an hour, and hikers can also access it via Stage 9 of the Wilson Trail. Several barbecue and picnic sites line the routes, so wear comfortable shoes and check current transport options before heading out.
The reservoir's distinctive S-shape makes it easily recognizable from a distance and is frequently photographed by hikers passing through the area. Its location at the edge of Pat Sin Leng Country Park offers unexpected viewpoints showing how water storage blends into the surrounding mountain landscape.
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