Tung O Ancient Trail is a footpath connecting several major villages in northern Lantau Island. It starts from Tung Chung in the east and ends in Tai O in the west, passing through Sha Lo Wan, San Tau, Sham Wat, etc. Since the launch of the ‘Rose Garden Project’ (new airport project) in the 1990s, tremendous changes have been observed in the landscapes of these previously quiet and simple villages, with many key infrastructures being developed in neighbouring areas, which include the Chek Lap Kok New Airport, Tung Chung New Town, etc.

As the city continues to develop, several villages along the Ancient Trail are gradually left abandoned. Despite this, trail visitors will still be able to pass through a number of ancient ruins and have a feel of rural lifestyle in the past, including ruins of forts, Lantau North Obelisk, stilt houses and so forth. The landscape in the surrounding area might have changed drastically over the years. Nonetheless, there are still something that remain unchanged.

Steep slopes are rarely observed in this route, yet it may take up to around 4-5 hours to hike, and is suitable for intermediate hikers.

Located in South Lantau, Pui O owns abundant ecological resources and diversified habitats that support a variety of species. Here you can visit two different types of wetlands, including mangrove wetland in brackish water and freshwater wetland transformed from abandoned farmland, each of which is special in its own way.

When visiting Pui O, you can spend a whole day quietly observing its ecology, or simply enjoy the fun of hiking in a relaxing way. Beaches and campsites there managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department also provide good options for a variety of outdoor activities.

If you find the north Lantau coast being overcrowded with infrastructures, the city too noisy, or the dense high-rise buildings too suffocating, why not take a bus ride to the south of Lantau Island? Start a walk from Shek Pik, from east to west, passing through Kau Ling Chung, Fan Lau, Yi O and finally arriving at Tai O. Reminisce about the landscape of ancient villages from the calm pond, study the geography and ecology through turbid streams, and observe the past and present from historic sites.

Visit the south coast of Lantau to truly feel the nature and appreciate what a natural coast should look like. Observe changes in your mood and compare the differences of South and North Lantau as you travel across them.

In the past, ferry from Central to Mui Wo was the only way of travelling to Lantau Island, followed by subsequent bus transfer to various points on the Island. This was why Mui Wo was so prosperous at that time. However, since the government announced the plan to construct a new airport in Chek Lap Kok, the situation has totally changed – bridges and railways directly connect urban areas to Tung Chung, and the Tung Chung New Town has developed in conjunction with the airport development project. Tung Chung is now regarded as the gateway of travelling to Lantau Island. Despite the differences in the destinies of Tung Chung and Mui Wo, the ancient trail between these two places served as a major passage for villagers in the past. An easy route, Tung Mui Ancient Trail is suitable for families to experience the transformations of Lantau Island together.