The Sai Wan Swimming Shed

The Sai Wan Swimming Shed has become a much sought-after spot for photo-taking in recent years.  As it faces the northwestern end of Hong Kong Island, the location is perfect for sunset photos.  Many couples find it a beautiful spot for dating.  I was curious about this place and so I finally had a chance to pay a visit this past weekend.

In terms of history, the site was simply a shed where people changed into swimming gear and descended into the sea for swimming some fifty years ago.  The site shows a simple view of a petite wooden bridge that leads out to the sea.  There are indeed many options for water sports and swimming in Hong Kong now, and so the swimming shed is there for the sake of nostalgia only.

Signs of the bygone days remain on the site, however.  At the entrance to the stairs down, the gateway displays the names of two swimming enthusiast societies.  Once having descended the stairs, you will see a metal shed denoting the Kennedy Town Kai-Fong Welfare Association.  It would have been the changing room.

The view really is quite nice there.  There are wide open views of boats and even cargos sailing.  Because it was the weekend, many photographers were there.  I had to wait and line up for my spot to take photos.

I walked a bit northward along the coast and came upon even wider views of the sea.  There was a lone island close in sight.  From afar I could see the Tsing Ma Bridge as well.  A man was fishing, and his presence enlivened the scenery.

To get to the Sai Wan Swimming Shed, take buses 1, 43M, 971 or Minibus 58 and get off at the Caritas Jockey Club Hostel stop.