Lin Ma Hang Lead Mine (“the mine”) was once the largest lead mine in Hong Kong. Mining activities at the site were recorded as early as the 19th century. 1936 to 1939 was the heyday of the mine. During World War II, the Japanese forces took over the mine. Lin Ma Hang villagers joined forces with the Anti-Japanese guerrillas to fight against the Japanese forces. They succeeded in the third attempt and drove away the Japanese from the mine. The mine eventually ceased operation in the late 1950s, due to factors such as drop in international lead prices, natural disaster and strike, etc.
Gradually, the mine has become an important roosting and breeding site for bats in Hong Kong. A total of 10 species of bats had been recorded in the mine, representing 40% of the total number of bat species in Hong Kong, such as Lesser Bent-winged Bats (Miniopterus pusillus) and Chinese Horseshoe Bats (Rhinolophus sinicus). The mine was designated as a “Site of Special Scientific Interest” in 1994.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and the Civil Engineering and Development Department collaborated to stabilise and revitalise the mine into an open museum, to showcase to the public its geology, mining history and bat ecology.
When visiting the mine, please observe the following code:
- • Follow the signage. Do not venture into unmaintained path or take shortcuts.
- • The footpath is narrow. Be considerate.
- • Beware of the dim environment in the mine.
- • To avoid disturbing bats inside the mine, keep your voice down and do not use strong light.
- • Beware of uneven surface and rough rocks.
- • No graffiti, vandalism. Do not take away any rock.
- • Take your litter home.

Watch the video to learn more
【Discovering Robin’s Nest Country Park - Mine】
