Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir: Roman Architecture Hidden in the Heart of Hong Kong
Contents
- Essential Information
- About the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir
- Roman Architectural Style
- Unbelievably, the Reservoir was Almost Demolished by the Hong Kong Government
- How to Get There
- Google Map and GPX File
Essential Information About the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir
The reservoir gets very crowded on weekends, so it's highly recommended to visit on a weekday if possible to avoid waiting in massive queues.
There is also a steep climb before you can get to the reservoir. The climb includes plenty of stairs, which makes the reservoir quite inaccessible to those with wheelchairs.
Starting from August 1, 2024, no prior appointment is needed to visit the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir. Some websites still indicate you need to book to visit. This isn't the case unless you're looking for a guided tour.
Tickets and Price
Free
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday:
Morning: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Last Admission Times:
Morning: 11:30 AM
Afternoon: 4:30 PM
Closed: First Tuesday of every month.
Guided Tours (Optional):
*You can visit without being part of a tour.
If you want to go as part of a tour group, please refer to the information below.
Weekdays: One group session in the afternoon (25 to 38 people).
Weekends: Two individual sessions in the afternoon (up to 4 people).
Booking: Reservations can be made via the WSD's dedicated webpage, starting 9 AM on the first working day of each month.
Visitor Capacity:
Maximum of 100 persons allowed inside at a time.
Entry is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Address:
Address: Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir
Chinese Address: 前深水埗配水庫
About the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir
History
The origins of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir date back to the early 1900s, a period marked by rapid population growth in Kowloon. At the time, the existing water supply was primarily sourced from underground wells, which was inadequate. In response, the British colonial government initiated the Kowloon Waterworks Gravitation Scheme in 1902, which aimed to enhance the water supply infrastructure. Completed in 1904, the reservoir was initially named the Kowloon Tong Service Reservoir and was designed to serve the burgeoning communities of Kowloon Tong, Sham Shui Po, and Tai Hang Tung. It played a vital role in the city’s water supply until it was decommissioned in 1970, following the commissioning of the larger Shek Kip Mei Fresh Water Service Reservoir.
Construction
The construction of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir was a significant engineering feat of its time. Built using local granite and red bricks, the reservoir features a circular design that maximizes water storage capacity while minimizing the perimeter. This shape is not only practical but also helps prevent the accumulation of debris. The reservoir was constructed with a storage capacity of approximately 9,900 cubic meters (2.18 million gallons), making it one of the largest service reservoirs in the region at the time.
Usage
Throughout its operational years, the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir was integral to the water supply system in Kowloon. It functioned as a short-term storage facility, ensuring a steady supply of fresh water to local residents. The reservoir’s strategic location on Bishop Hill allowed it to effectively distribute water to surrounding neighborhoods. However, by the late 20th century, the reservoir faced challenges, including structural issues and leakage. Despite efforts to address these problems, it was ultimately decommissioned in 1970, marking the end of its role in Hong Kong’s water supply network.
Statistics
- Completion Year: 1904
- Original Name: Kowloon Tong Service Reservoir
- Storage Capacity: 9,900 cubic meters (approximately 2.18 million gallons)
- Decommissioned: 1970
- Grade I Historic Building Status: Granted in June 2021
Roman Architectural Style
The architectural style of the Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir is a striking example of Romanesque design, characterized by its grand granite piers and red brick arches. The reservoir once featured 108 granite columns that supported its massive concrete ceiling, creating an impressive interior space that reflects the engineering prowess of its time. However, due to structural concerns and renovations, there are 74 columns today.
The use of Flemish bond brickwork adds to the aesthetic appeal, while the circular structure enhances both functionality and beauty. This unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural influences makes the reservoir not only a vital piece of infrastructure but also a cultural landmark.
Unbelievably, the Reservoir was Almost Demolished by the Hong Kong Government
The Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir was on the brink of demolition due to concerns over its structural integrity. In December 2020, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) began the demolition process, citing the risk of roof collapse as a primary reason.
However, as work progressed, the reservoir's remarkable architectural features, including its Romanesque brick arches, were uncovered, sparking public interest and concern for its preservation.
On December 28, 2020, local citizens, alarmed by the ongoing destruction, intervened to halt the demolition, with one individual even physically blocking machinery to protect the site. This grassroots movement led to a suspension of demolition activities the following day. In the aftermath, an independent working group was established to investigate the incident, ultimately resulting in the reservoir being granted Grade I historic building status in June 2021, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
How to Get There
