Tap Mun is an island located between Long Harbour, the North Channel and Mirs Bay. It is almost surrounded by country parks. Legend has it that the name of this islet came from the two neatly stacked rectangular rocks in the shape of the Chinese character ‘呂’ (lui). It is also said to resemble a stupa, and together with the nearby Tap Mun Cave that opens up to Mirs Bay like a door, the island was thus named ‘Fat Tap Mun’ (‘Stupa Door’), which was later simplified into Tap Mun.
At its peak, the island was home to 2,000 residents, including indigenous inhabitants and those who used to live on the water. Most of them farmed and fished for a living. As the trade of fishing declined, young people sought to make a living in urban areas. Tap Mun is home to a Tin Hau Temple, which was built in the late Ming and early Qing dynasties some 300 years ago. On important days such as the birthday of Tin Hau, many fisher folk come and say prayers for the blessings of the goddess of the sea.
Follow the path to the left of the abandoned King Lam School until you reach an extensive meadow, and you will understand why Tap Mun is also called Grass Island. You will see feral cattle grazing as you set foot on the meadow. No wonder people like kite flying and camping here.
Suggested Routes:
1. Take a taxi from MTR University Station, Exit B > Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier for a kaito ferry > Tap Mun
2. Take bus 94 from Sai Kung town centre > Wong Shek Pier for a kaito ferry > Tap Mun
