Contrary to some traditional museums, you will find yourself surrounded by one of Hong Kong’s newest visitor attractions, Nina Park. Everyone who ventures into this green oasis in Tsuen Wan is encouraged to get up close and personal with these magnificent obelisks.
These remarkable signposts to a time when dinosaurs roamed the hillsides of the New Territories, are the product of an amazing process called petrification, which requires water, the ash from a volcano, and millions of years of patience, to turn these wooden Goliaths into pillars of stone. Over 100 examples of these naturally formed petrified remains from Indonesia, are on display in various forms to encourage interaction and gentle education.
But it is their setting that makes this attraction particularly compelling. Nina Park is green, relaxing, fun, and a destination designed to encourage positive health and wellbeing. There’s a large lawn, a shaded amphitheater, and a fountain which encourages lots of splashing especially from younger visitors. There’s also a two-level Experience Centre, guiding the curious through the history, biology, physics, and beauty of the fossilization process. With exhibits from the Jurassic to Pliocene Epoch, there are millions of years of petrification on show, supported by contemporary multimedia content and interactive technology. Workshops and special events are held regularly to encourage young and old alike to gain a greater understanding of the science which influences the world as much today as it did millions of years ago. For moments shared with a loved one, the park has secluded corners, walkways, and Instagram friendly backdrops in which to create very personal memories.
Designed with the entire community in mind, Nina Park is a relevant destination for those living in Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, or visiting from further afield. Connected to the Tsuen Wan West MTR by airconditioned walkways, this is a destination that’s very easy to reach. And once in the park, you’ll notice that it welcomes all ages and stages of mobility. There are disabled ramps throughout, and unlike many green spaces in Hong Kong, you’re actively encouraged to sit on the grass and relax.
