“Tai Tam Inscriptionless Obelisks” are a pair of obelisks with similar appearance, overlooking Tai Tam Harbour. They are Government Historic Sites identified by the Antiquities and Monuments Office. It is believed that the pair of obelisks were erected between late 1890s and 1900s. The obelisk in the north stands on Obelisk Hill whereas the one in the south is at the foot of Pak Pat Shan at the opposite shore. They are one nautical mile (1.852 km) apart, and “in line” – they are on the same longitude, running north to south. 

A story goes that the two obelisks were erected by the British Royal Navy as navigational aids, since the obelisks, when lined up, would mark a course which cleared a patch of rocks lying across the entrance to Tai Tam Bay. Ships could then safely sail through Tai Tam Bay into Tai Tam Harbour. Furthermore, according to a Report of the Director of Public Works in 1910, it is believed that the obelisks were also used for swinging ships. Nowadays, the two inscriptionless obelisks serve as a historical reminder of the maritime history and development of navigation technology in Hong Kong.

The “Tai Tam Inscriptionless Obelisks” stands about 9 m tall and made of concrete. The square-like base, pyramidal capping structure is visible along Hong Kong Trail (Section 7). The entrance of the footpath to the Obelisk is near distance post “H075” at Section 7. Follow the waymark and turn to the footpath. Hike up the steps for about half an hour and you will reach the obelisk. When you glance back during the ascend, you can see the Inscriptionless Obelisk standing at Pak Pat Shan at the opposite shore. There is an interpretation panel at the “Tai Tam Inscriptionless Obelisks” introducing its history. We cordially invite you to visit this relic that serves as a testimony of maritime history!

Please return to Hong Kong Trail along the same path after visit.