Location & How to Get There

Lok Ma Chau sits in the northern part of Hong Kong’s New Territories, right on the border with Shenzhen. If you’re coming from downtown Hong Kong, it’s a bit of a trek—think about 40 minutes by train to Sheung Shui Station, then a short bus or taxi ride. But here’s the cool part: Lok Ma Chau is actually closer to Shenzhen than most of Hong Kong! You can walk across the bridge from Shenzhen’s Huanggang Port and reach it in just 10 minutes. Just make sure your passport’s ready—this area’s right next to the border checkpoint.

Nature’s Backyard

When you think of Lok Ma Chau, imagine wide-open spaces. The area’s famous for its wetlands, which look like a giant nature painting. In winter, thousands of migratory birds (like egrets and herons) stop here, turning the fields into a bird-watcher’s paradise. There’s also fish ponds that glimmer at sunset, and if you’re lucky, you might spot local farmers tending to their crops. Bring a camera—the golden-hour light here makes Lok Ma Chau feel like a scene from a movie.

History & Culture

The name “Lok Ma Chau” literally means “where fallen horses are found,” but don’t worry—it’s not as violent as it sounds! Legend says it’s named after a battle where horses exhausted themselves. Today, though, Lok Ma Chau is all about quiet vibes. Nearby, you’ll find old Hong Kong-style villages with tiny temples and red-brick houses. Some say the area feels like “old Hong Kong” because it’s less developed than busy cities like Victoria.

Getting Around

No fancy metro here—Lok Ma Chau is best explored by foot or bike. You can rent a bicycle from local shops (super cheap!) and pedal along the narrow roads. If you’re coming from Shenzhen, the cross-border bridge is a fun walk—just watch out for the trams zipping by! For food, there are simple cafes and dai pai dong (street stalls) serving noodles and milk tea.

What to Do Here

At Lok Ma Chau, slow down. Spend mornings photographing kingfishers in the wetlands, afternoons wandering through villages, and evenings watching the sunset turn the sky pink. If you’re up for adventure, take a short hike to nearby hills for a bird’s-eye view of the border. Just remember: this place isn’t about skyscrapers or malls—it’s about fresh air, space, and getting a little bit lost in nature.

Tips for Visitors

  • Wear comfy shoes—there’s a lot of walking on uneven paths.
  • Bring bug spray (those wetlands attract mosquitoes).
  • If you visit on a weekend, go early! Lok Ma Chau gets crowded with locals escaping the city.
  • Want a unique photo? Stand under the “Welcome to Lok Ma Chau” arch near the Shenzhen border—it’s a classic shot!

Whether you’re here for a few hours or a full day, Lok Ma Chau feels like a breath of fresh air. It’s the kind of place where you can forget rush-hour crowds and just… chill.