While my friend and I were out hiking some of the trails around the Tai Tam Country Park, we stumbled upon the Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre. What a great discovery!
The building that the Biodiversity Education Centre was constructed in is amazingly beautiful. It's also known as the Red House and was once the home of to a Taikoo Sugar Refinery senior staff member. The residence was constructed in the 1920s and is now, as deemed by the government, one of Hong Kong's Historic Buildings.
Hilo Holly!
The Outdoor Garden:
Around the Biodiversity Education Centre, there are actually an array of plants that are labeled (like the Hilo Holly above). It's actually really interesting to see what some of these plants are named. The tree that stands to the left of the Centre is called "Tree Cotton," by the way. And the entire area is fragrant with the scent of the osmanthus bushes that line the walkways. It's a lovely little walk around, for those who are interested in photographing plants, plant-enthusiasts, and those who just want to learn something new.
Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre Info:
Admission is FREE
Open from 9:30 - 4:30 pm
Open on everyday except for Tuesdays
How to get here:
1. From Quarry Bay MTR station Exit A, you'll find yourself on King's Road
2. Walk right in the direction of Taikoo district
3. You'll find a sign signaling the Mount Parker Road Green Trail
4. Walk up Mount Parker Road for 10 - 15 minutes
5. You'll be hiking for most of those 10 - 15 minutes
6. Woodside Biodiversity Education Centre will be on your right
NOTE: It's located on a hill, so you'll feel like you're pretty high up, as it is alongside a hiking trail.
There are three main sections of the Centre:
(1) Hong Kong's Natural Environment and Wildlife
This section is quite fun to peruse through, as there are little cases that feature some of Hong Kong's local lizards and bugs.
(2) Woodlands, Rivers and Streams, The Marine Environment and Mangroves
This section also has two interactive areas, where you (mostly children) can listen to bat calls and learn more about the animals that live in Hong Kong's mangroves.
(3) Activity Room (for workshops or special events)
This area was closed when we went to visit.
This was a nice little place to find along our urban hike. It reminded me of the time my husband and I were out at the Ping Shan Heritage Trail and found the Tang Gallery. I love how historic buildings are renovated into museums or educational centers. It's just a wonderful diamond in the rough kind of moment.
