Plizio Visual Lab
Shek Pik Rock Carvings
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
ruins
Located on Lantau Island just below the massive spillway of the Shek Pik Reservoir, these prehistoric rock carvings offer a glimpse into Hong Kong's ancient past. Discovered in 1939 by scholar Walter Schofield, the site features intricate geometric patterns etched into fine-grained porphyritic rock. The motifs consist of concentric circles, spirals, and zigzags that are characteristic of the early Bronze Age, dating back roughly 3,000 years. These petroglyphs are remarkably similar to other coastal carvings found across Hong Kong's outlying islands, suggesting they were created by a common maritime culture for ritualistic purposes or as navigation markers. The site was officially declared a statutory monument in 1979 to ensure its preservation. Visitors can access the carvings via a dedicated staircase leading down from the reservoir road, where the ancient markings are now protected from the elements by a transparent glass enclosure.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Kwun Yam Shan · Flying Dragon · Pak Kok Heavenly Book Wall
- Nearby: Tai O (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 31 | 85 | 112 | 247 | 294 | 216 | 253 | 195 | 69 | 32 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Shek Pik rock carvings are freely accessible and can be viewed at any time. The site is located below the dam and reached via a short, unpaved path. There is no entry fee or visitor center.
Typical hours
As the rock carvings are outdoors, there are no fixed opening hours. They are accessible 24 hours a day. Best visited during daylight to appreciate the details of the geometric patterns.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions. A tripod may be useful to capture the fine carvings in low light. Do not touch the rock carvings to protect them.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes, enough time to view the two stone panels and enjoy the surroundings. As the site is remote, allow extra travel time.
Combine with
Combine the carvings with a visit to the Shek Pik Reservoir and Tai O fishing village, just 15 minutes away. The Ngong Ping Plateau with the Big Buddha is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The carvings are reached by bus to Shek Pik, departing from Tung Chung MTR station. From the bus stop, walk about 10 minutes to the path below the dam. Taxi is another option.
Insider tip
Visit the carvings early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photos. Since there is no shade, a sun hat is advisable. The site is small, so combine it with other Lantau destinations.
Geography
Facts
- Estimated age is approximately 3,000 years
- Discovered by Chen Kung-che in 1939
- Located 200 metres below the Shek Pik reservoir dam
- Consist of complex geometric and spiral patterns
- Declared a statutory monument in 1979
- Carved directly onto a natural granite rock face
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Shek Pik Rock Carvings (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where are the Shek Pik rock carvings?
On Lantau Island, below the dam of the Shek Pik Reservoir.
How are the carvings protected?
They are protected by a metal fence and a roof structure.
What patterns can be seen there?
Square and spiral patterns, similar to those on ancient bronzeware.
How do you get there?
Take bus 1, 11, or 23 to the Shek Pik Police Vacation House stop.
When were they discovered?
They were discovered in 1939.
Shek Pik Rock Carvings: where is it located?
Shek Pik Rock Carvings is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Shek Pik Rock Carvings: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kwun Yam Shan, Flying Dragon, Pak Kok Heavenly Book Wall.
Shek Pik Rock Carvings: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Shek Pik Rock Carvings: why is it worth visiting?
Located on Lantau Island just below the massive spillway of the Shek Pik Reservoir, these prehistoric rock carvings offer a glimpse into Hong Kong's ancient past.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Hong Kong SAR China →
Nearby cities
Tuen Mun
Tuen Mun is located in the west of the New Territories and is a major residential area with a long history as a military and trade base.
Sham Shui Po
Sham Shui Po is one of Kowloon's oldest and most authentic neighborhoods, famous for its street markets and cheap electronics.
Tsuen Wan
Tsuen Wan was one of the first new towns in Hong Kong, evolving from an industrial district into a modern residential center.
Tin Shui Wai
Tin Shui Wai is a modern planned new town in the northwest New Territories, built on former fish ponds.
Fanling Wai
Fanling Wai is a historic village of the Pang clan, known for its distinctive cannons and village pond.
Fanling
Fanling is a new town in the northern New Territories, offering a mix of modern residential areas and traditional villages.
Yuen Long
Yuen Long is a traditional market town in the northwest New Territories, known for its local specialties and wetlands.
Tsing Yi
Tsing Yi is an island developed into a major new town with residential areas and important logistics facilities.
Tung Chung
Tung Chung is a modern new town on Lantau Island, serving as the gateway to the international airport and cable car.
Pok Fu Lam
Pok Fu Lam is a residential district in the west of Hong Kong Island with sea views and a mix of university campuses and nature.
Nam Cheong
Nam Cheong is a modern residential neighborhood in West Kowloon developed around a major transport interchange.
Mei Foo
Mei Foo is known for its massive residential estate Mei Foo Sun Chuen, one of Hong Kong's first large private housing projects.
Ping Shan
Ping Shan is home to Hong Kong's first heritage trail, offering insights into the traditional life of the local clans.
Kennedy Town
Kennedy Town is the western end of Hong Kong Island and has evolved into a trendy neighborhood with many cafes and restaurants.
Tai Kok Tsui
Tai Kok Tsui is a rapidly changing neighborhood in Kowloon where old industrial blocks are giving way to new luxury towers.
