Your neighbourhood guide to Sha Tin
Somewhere over Lion RockPredominantly an area of agricultural farmland, Sha Tin is one of the earliest new town projects of the Hong Kong Government in the 1970s. Covering Tai Wai, Fo Tan, Ma On Shan and more, Sha Tin has transformed into a bustling residential area today and is the most populated amongst the 18 districts in Hong Kong. Despite this, the town boasts great expanses of green pasture and cultural heritage sites. You can find well-preserved wall villages in Tai Wai, spoonbills chilling out in Fo Tan and worshippers paying their respects in Che Kung Temple. Here are our favourite ways to enjoy the town on the other side of Lion Rock.
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What to see
Tsang Tai Uk
Built by the Tsang clan in the 1840s, Tsang Tai Uk is one of the best preserved Hakka walled villages in Hong Kong. Within its granite walls and timber beams, residents still live in the back of Tsang Tai Uk to this day, but visitors are welcome to visit the front courtyard and ancestral hall. The complex was declared a Grade 1 historic building in 2009 and a visit will take you right back in time.
Tsang Tai Uk, near Pok Hong Estate, Sha Kok Street, Sha Tin
Che Kung Temple
Another declared relic in Sha Tin is Che Kung Temple. There, you’ll find intricate carvings of divine creatures, giant bronze bells and a majestic golden statue of Che Kung. Known to be the official temple of the Hong Kong Government to ask for fortune, the Grade 2 historic building attracts crowds of devotees, especially on the second day of Lunar New Year. Take a trip to the temple and spin the fan-blade wheels for good luck and fortune.
Che Kung Temple, 7 Che Kung Miu Road, Sha Tin
Read more: Best temples in Hong Kong
Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery
Whether you’re a spiritual devotee or just a cultural geek, the Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery is a must-go in the neighbourhood. The substantially decorated monastery behind the bamboo walls boasts an extensive collection of gold-plated buddha statues. From the stairway to the main temple, walls of shelves to the pagoda, you’ll find yourself surrounded by majestic figures.
Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery, 220 Pai Tau Village, Sha Tin
Hong Kong Heritage Museum
As the largest museum in the city, the Hong Kong Heritage Museum offers visitors a free journey into the cultural and artsy side of the 852. Housing 12 different galleries and exhibition halls, the museum showcases a wide range of modern and traditional artwork. From extravagant Chinese opera costumes, vintage movie posters, nineties toys to post-modern installations, treat yourself to a cultural ride and learn about the heritage of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Heritage Museum , 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, 2180 8188
Read more: Best museums in Hong Kong
Sha Tin Racecourse
One of two racecourses in Hong Kong, the Sha Tin Racecourse is located right next to Shing Mun River. With multiple international races taking place annually, the riverside racecourse attracts jockeys from around the world to its world-class facility.
Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin
Penfold Park
When the races are over and the horses are at rest, Penfold Park welcomes families and pets for a sunny day out. Encircled by the racecourse, Penfold Park is surrounded by luscious greens and overlooks the Shing Mun River. An unexpected location for a park, Penfold is a hidden gem where locals spend their Saturday afternoons.
Penfold Park, Sha Tin Racecourse, Sha Tin
Read more: 7 beautiful parks and green spaces in Hong Kong
What to do
Cycle along Shing Mun River
You can see herds of cyclists if you visit on a sunny Sunday. With bike rental shops everywhere in the Sha Tin area, cycling along Shing Mun River is the best way to explore the neighbourhood whilst getting your dose of country air. The bicycle trail passes through Ma On Shan and To Lo Harbour, taking you all the way to Tai Po Harbour-front Promenade.
Read more: Best cycling routes in Hong Kong
Hike to see Amah Rock
Legend has it, a fisherman’s wife carried her baby up the hill, gazing out for her husband and turned into stone as time passed. This may not be a beautiful love story but the view at Amah says otherwise. Passing through Lion Rock Country Park, Wilson Trail Section 5 is an easy walk that rewards you with breathtaking views here and there. Watch out – you might even happen upon some mischievous monkeys.
Walk up Ma On Shan Country Trail
Living up to it’s name, Ma On Shan – Horse Saddle Mountain – is one of Hong Kong’s most distinctive peaks. Ma On Shan Country Trail links up Sai Kung Country Park and Lion Rock Country Park. The summit may not be an easy one but the spectacular view up top is worth the sweat. For those who need a nature escape, give this hike a try and enjoy the panoramic scenery overlooking the metropolis.
Read more: Best hikes in Hong Kong
Where to eat
Lung Wah Hotel
Known for its roast pigeons, Lung Wah Hotel was once the go-to for eminent movie stars, government officials and socialites back in the 50s. If you want to sample signature Hong Kong delicacy, take a trip to the picturesque hotel in Sha Tin for some crispy skinned game meat. Make sure you don’t miss the hotel’s photogenic entrance.
Lung Wah Hotel, 22 Ha Wo Che Chuen, Sha Tin, 2691 1594
Din Tai Fung
Who’s down for some XLBs? This Michelin-starred dumpling house from Taiwan is no stranger to Hong Kongers. If you happen to be craving some soupy savoury Shanghai-style xiao long baos, pop by Din Tai Fung’s branch in New Town Plaza for some steamy goodness.
Din Tai Fung, Shop 166, 1/F, New Town Plaza Phase 1, 18 Sha Tin Centre Street, Sha Tin, 2778 1236
Chan Kun Kee
Go where the locals go and eat what the locals eat. Chan Kun Kee is the go-to supper spot in the area. Rooted in Wo Che for 36 years, this renowned dai pai dong has now moved to Shek Mun, serving authentic staples like the sweet and sour pork, roast goose and fried beef hor fun. Order a pint of Tsing Tao beer and feast like a king.
Chan Kun Kee, Shop 5, G/F, Phase 2, Kings Wing Plaza, 3 On Kwan Street, Shek Mun, Sha Tin, 2606 1390
LEVELthirty Lounge & Bar
Tucked away in Shek Mun, LEVELthirty Lounge & Bar overlooks Shing Mun River and Sha Tin Racecourse. A lounge by day and a bar by night, the top floor of Courtyard offers set lunches and afternoon teas. Relax with your mid-afternoon snack while enjoying the exclusive views.
LEVELthirty Lounge & Bar, 30/F, Courtyard by Marriott Hong Kong Sha Tin, 1 On Ping Street, Sha Tin, 3940 8388
Dear Coffee & Bakery
Hong Kongers’ love for dainty cafés has spread to the neighbourhood of Sha Tin. Situated near a residential area, Dear Coffee & Bakery is always filled with faithful fans. The bakery comes up with different variations of baked goods every week, from pistachio paste matcha bagels to oolong tea butter scones, mixing up unique flavours and making sure to satisfy your inner foodie.
Dear Coffee & Bakery, Shop 22, G/F, Holford Garden, 2-8 Chik Wan Street, Tai Wai, Sha Tin, 2682 0093
Read more: Best bakeries in Hong Kong
Cozy Coffee
With two other branches in The Mills and Sai Kung, this minimalistic café is the spot for an afternoon latte and Instagram pics. Cozy Coffee boasts a two-story space and customers are welcome to bring their furry friends along. Whether you’re looking for a brunch restaurant or just a place to chill, this friendly neighbourhood café will not disappoint.
Cozy Coffee, Shop C, G/F, 64-66 Chik Fook Street, Tai Wai, Sha Tin, 6511 8708
