Kowloon Byewash Reservoir

Kowloon Byewash Reservoir is a small, calm reservoir with a soaring dam tucked into the forest of Kam Shan Country Park. It sits right below the dam of the larger Kowloon Reservoir, and the whole area is dotted with old waterworks from the early 1900s. If you take some time to explore the areas around the two dams you will find colonial-era stone dams, a valve house and little stone bridges set against the water and trees. Kam Shan is known locally as Monkey Hill, and there are macaques are everywhere (lounging on the dam walls, drinking at the water's edge, grooming up in the branches) which makes it a great spot to experiment with wildlife photography if you have a longer lens in your kit. They are most active and easiest to find in the late afternoon. The water stays still and quiet, especially early in the day, and mirrors the forest nicely. From the higher ground you can pair the contrast of green hills and calm water against the city skyline and the harbour cranes beyond. The Country Park is easily accessible and filled with paved paths just a short walk from the road or the bus stop. While you are shooting remember the monkeys are bold and will grab anything, especially if it looks like food, so keep an eye on your gear and your camera bag zipped up. It is against the law to purposely feed the monkeys. (Kam Shan Country Park, Kowloon, Hong Kong)