Tap Mun Grass Island

Tap Mun, called Grass Island in English, is a low island off the north-east coast whose eastern side is open grassland running to a cliff edge, unusual in a territory where hillsides are normally covered in dense scrub. Cattle left behind when farming stopped now roam the slopes and graze among the picnickers, and the grass is short enough to camp on, which makes it one of the standard overnight spots for Hong Kong campers. The village on the sheltered side has a Tin Hau temple, a shrinking population and a few restaurants that open when boats arrive. A balanced rock stands near the high point, and the sea views run east toward open water.

What you actually see

• Open grassland above the sea - a rare uncovered hillside in Hong Kong.
• Free-roaming cattle - animals left after farming ended.
• The Tin Hau temple - the fishing village shrine on the sheltered side.
• The balanced rock - the formation near the island's high point.

When to go

October to April for camping and clear weather; summer is hot with typhoon risk. Half a day, or overnight to camp. Ferry sailings are few and must be planned around.

Honest expectations

Ferries are infrequent and the last one is early. There are no shops beyond a couple of village restaurants with irregular hours. Camping means carrying everything, including water. Cattle are used to people but should not be approached.

Nearby

Sai Kung is south-west; the Sai Kung peninsula lies across the water.