Cover Travel back in time at Shek Kip Mei’s underground reservoir starting from this December (Photo: Hong Kong Reminiscence/ Facebook)

Travel back in time to 1904 at Shek Kip Mei’s historic reservoir—which will be open for tours starting from December 15

After declaring Skek Kip Mei’s historic underground reservoir as a Grade 1 historic building back in March this year, visitors will finally be able to tour the site in-person from December 15 for six months. 

Located in Bishop Hill, the underground reservoir was discovered back in December 2020 when the Water Supplies Department was preparing the site for demolition work. The reservoir was later spotted by citizens and the demolition works were put to a stop. 

Don't miss: You Can Now Tour Shek Kip Mei’s Historic Underground Reservoir Online

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Above Photo: Hong Kong Reminiscence/ Facebook

Now, visitors can finally see the underground reservoir in-person by booking free guided tours on the Water Supplies Department. Individual and group tours will run daily from December 15 to June 14, 2022, with English tours available every Saturday. Sessions will last 90-minutes, with each group tour accommodating up to 14 people. Only 1,000 people will be allowed to register and view the reservoir each month at the moment but this may be changed depending on the public’s response to the opening. 

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Above Photo: Courtesy of @vanishing.hongkong/ Instagram

Built in 1904, the reservoir was constructed to increase water supply for Shek Kip mei’s growing population under the Kowloon Waterworks Gravitation Scheme. However, the site has not been used since the 1970s. 

Featuring Romanesque brick chambers and arches, the underground reservoir spans over 4,300 sq. m. HK$20 million has been spent on preliminary restoration by the government in the last few months and a glass roof has been installed to protect the reservoir from rain and wind. Ventilation systems, emergency exits, elevated platforms, and low ultraviolet lighting have also been added to improve overall safety and visitors’ viewing experience. 

Previously, the government launched a 360-degree virtual tour of the underground reservoir back in March, allowing the public to explore the space in the digital world ahead of the opening. 

Guided tours to Shek Kip Mei’s historic reservoir will be available for booking from December 1 at 9am. Tours will run daily from December 15 to June 14, 2022 with English tours available every Saturday. Book your tour here

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