Hong kong hikes and parks

Hiking the great outdoors might not be the

first thing that comes to mind when planning

a trip to Asia’s world city. After all, with so

many great shops, markets, restaurants,

bars, and cityscapes, where exactly does

one even hike here? The answer is simple

– most of Hong Kong’s land area is actually

rural. Not only that, it’s gorgeously rural.

A mere hiking boot throw from the teeming

downtown is some of the most breathtaking

natural scenery in the region, and you don’t

need legs of iron to enjoy most of Hong

Kong’s trails. With insights from local hikers,

this guide presents you with a series of easy

to moderately difficult walks and hikes that

will take you far from the city’s restless pace,

while leaving your calve muscles intact for

post-hike recreation.

Stunning natural scenery, local insights and

minimal aches – you now have no excuse

to miss out on the real wild side of Hong

Kong.

DiscoverHongKong.com/hikes_walks

INTRODUCTION

CONTeNTsHong Kong Global Geopark of ChinaA. Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region p.4 – 5B. Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region p.6 – 7

Recommended Hiking TrailsGeological Landscapes – MacLehose Trail Sections 1 & 2 p.8 – 11Coastal Trail – MacLehose Trail Section 2 (Tai Long Wan) p.12 – 15Urban Landscapes – Dragon’s Back p.16 – 19Leafy Trail – Shing Mun Reservoir p.20 – 23Heritage Hike – Tung Chung to Tai O p.24 – 27Panorama of Victoria Harbour – Peak Circle Walk p.28 – 31Outlying Islands – Cheung Chau, Lamma Island and Peng Chau p.32 – 33

Geo-areas of Hong Kong Global Geopark of China

Complimentary Guided Tours & ExhibitionsHong Kong Wetland Park p.34 – 35Ngong Ping Fun Walk p.36Mai Po Wetland Experience | Prehistoric Story Room p.37

Commercial Guided ToursSai Kung Coastal Treasures p.38Geopark Hiking Tour | Northeast New Territories Geopark Tour p.39Deserted Beaches Hike | Dragon’s Back Hike p.40Dolphin Watching Tour | Hong Kong Biking Tour p.41

Hiking Tips | Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme p.42 Free iPhone AR App | Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Information Services p.45

HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 1-1 10/28/11 6:21:19 PM

HONg KONg gLOBAL geOpARK OF CHINA

You don’t have to be a rock buff to enjoy the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China. Located

in the East and Northeast New Territories, the park includes the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock

Region and the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region and showcases

Hong Kong’s timeless and eerily beautiful landforms.

Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina2 | 3

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MAp OF HONg KONg gLOBAL geOpARK OF CHINAA. Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region 1 High Island2 Sharp Island3 Ung Kong Group4 Ninepin Group

B. Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region5 Double Haven6 Tung Ping Chau7 Port Island — Bluff Head8 Tolo Channel

Devil’s Fist - one of the best-known geological features in the area.

Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina

pHotos of Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina are provided by tHe agriculture, fisHeries and conservation department.


The Ung Kong Group consists of Bluff

Island, Wang Chau and Basalt Island. The

forces of sea and wind have helped develop

numerous steep cliffs and sea arches on the

southeast coast of the islands, including the

30m-high sea arch at Wang Chau, the 45m-

high sea arch at Basalt Island, and the Tiu

Chung Arch at Jin Island.

Ung Kong Group

Ninepin Group

The Ninepin Group is made up of South Ninepin Island, North Ninepin Island, and East Ninepin Island, along with several small rock islets. North Ninepin Island has the most eye-pleasing abrasion landforms with hexagonal rock columns overspread with joints formed under long-term wind and wave erosion.

A. sAI KUNg vOLCANIC ROCK RegIONUnique Volcanic Columns Sai Kung — ‘the back garden of Hong Kong’ — is a picturesque and popular holiday spot with locals. It is also home to hexagonal volcanic columns of rare formations. Averaging 1.2 metres in diameter and covering an area of 100 sq km (including the sea area), they are also rarely matched in terms of scale.

The easiest location to view the park’s most remarkable geological feature is High Island. From here, the hexagonal volcanic columns are visible along the island’s coasts, as is the rock column wall near the East Dam of High Island Reservoir. You’ll also see other geological phenomena such as faults, folds, twisted columns and dyke intrusions. Also note the volcanic-rock coast of Tai Long Wan – one of ‘Hong Kong’s Top Ten Natural Attractions’.

Located at Sai Kung’s western edge, Sharp Island is

covered by igneous rocks, which are older than the

hexagonal columns. In the west of the island, you can

see a coastal sedimentary landform — a tombolo —

which forms an almost 250m-long sand bar connecting

Sharp Island and the nearby Kiu Tau Island. At low

tide, it emerges above the water, creating a temporary

bridge between the two islands.

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Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina4 | 5

You can get to High Island via the Pak

Tam Chung to Chui Tung Au route of

Sections 1 & 2 of the MacLehose Trail

(p.8-11), or by joining the Geopark

Hiking Tour (p.39).

You can hire the village ferry (Kaito)

and sail from Sai Kung pier.

Setting off!

Setting off!

High Island

Sharp Island

Hexagonal Volcanic Columns

South Ninepin Island and North Ninepin IslandTombolo

Sea Arch of Wang Chau

Chan Yat-fong Seasoned Hiker The founder of Righteous Hiking Group, Chan has published books and magazines on hiking. He also contributes hiking content to print and broadcast media in Hong Kong.

It is best not to attempt to go ashore when touring the Geopark by boat because the loose, eroded rocks of certain islands are dangerous to walk on. Also, some landforms cannot be approached closely, so bring binoculars. Get more out of your visit by reading the Geopark information online (www.geopark.gov.hk) before departing and joining a guided tour.

Hiking Tips


2

Geo-areas 3 and 4 are difficult to get to on your own. You can join the tour of Sai Kung Coastal Treasures (p.38), which includes the Hung Shing Temple at Kau Sai Chau — designated as an ‘Outstanding Project’ in the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage 2000 Awards.

Setting off!


B. NORTHeAsT New TeRRITORIes seDIMeNTARy ROCK RegION

Double Haven

Port Island – Bluff Head

China Danxia — a name for red-coloured landforms

specific to China — was included on the UNESCO

World Heritage List in 2010, and Port Island is a similar

rock formation of these rare geological landforms in a

seascape setting. Rich iron oxide gives the island’s

sandstone and siltstone a bright red hue. The rocks

at Bluff Head were formed by deposits at estuarine

deltas about 400 million years ago, and became

vertical under the influence of geological movements.

Together with weathering and coastal erosion, this

phenomenon resulted in some peculiar landforms,

most notably the ‘Devil’s Fist’.

Tung Ping Chau

Crescent-shaped Tung Ping Chau, Hong

Kong’s easternmost island, has long been

popular with locals for its strange rock

formation. It boasts the youngest rocks in

Hong Kong — merely 55 million years of

age — but differs in that its formations are

composed of fine laminated siltstone and

mudstone that form an eerie landscape.

Notable landforms here include Lung Lok

Shui, Kang Lau Shek and Cham Keng Chau.

Tolo Channel

The oldest rocks in Hong Kong are found along the

north coast of Tolo Channel and near Bluff Head.

Ma Shi Chau located west of the channel, features

sedimentary rocks formed some 280 million years

ago which is the second oldest in Hong Kong,

while the rare volcanic sedimentary rocks at Lai

Chi Chong are about 146 million years old with the

area displaying distinctive folds, faults and various

sedimentary structures.

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You can join the Northeast

New Territories Geopark Tour

(p.39) to see Double Haven.

Setting off!

How to get there

From MTR University

Station take a taxi to

Ma Liu Shui Pier, Sha

Tin, and board the

ferry to Tung Ping

Chau.

Ferry service hours

From Ma Liu Shui – 9am and

3:30pm on Saturday; 9am on

Sunday and Public Holidays

From Tung Ping Chau – 5:15pm

on Saturday, Sunday and Public

Holidays

Ferry service hotline

+852 2272 2022

Setting off!

Setting off!

You can join the Northeast New Territories Geopark Tour (p.39) to see Port Island.

Setting off!

6 | 7Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina

Ferry service hours From Ma Liu Shui – 8:30am and 3pm every day

From Lai Chi Chong – 11:40am and 6pm every day

Ferry service hotline +852 2272 2022

How to get there From MTR University Station, take a taxi to Ma Liu Shui Pier, Sha Tin, and board a ferry to your destination.

Rising sea levels 6,000 to 8,000 years ago submerged

the river valleys in Double Haven, leading to the

formation of indented shorelines with headlands and

bays. But the landforms you see today was caused

by volcanic eruptions some 160 million years ago,

when lava mixed with volcanic ash formed rock strata.

Later, rivers flowed down from high mountains and

washed sand and stones to coastal lowlands, forming

sedimentery rock about 500 metres thick. Popular

landforms here include Hung Shek Mun, Camp Cove

and Double Island.

Yan Chau

Devil’s Fist

Kang Lau Shek Distorted Sedimentary Strata


*You can also join the Northeast New Territories

Geopark Tour (P.39).


March Towards a Marvellous World of Rocks Winding round the Sai Kung Peninsula, the MacLehose Trail Sections 1 and 2 is the perfect route to browse the amazing hexagonal volcanic columns of High Island. The route also passes two of Hong Kong’s ‘10 Best Scenic Sites’, the High Island Reservoir and Long Ke Wan.

Section 1 of the MacLehose Trail follows the lower half of the Sai Kung East Country Park, passing through both the West Dam and East Dam of the High Island Reservoir. Most of the route consists of flat roads and concrete paths.

GeoloGical landscapes

Maclehose Trail secTions 1 & 2

8 | 9MacLehose TraiL secTions 1 & 2

End point - Sai Wan Pavilion

Starting Point - Pak Tam Chung

Long Ke Wan

A splendid inner bay, Long Ke Wan has

crystal-clear water and wide white

sands. Lying in between hills and capes,

no isles except the Conic Island block

your view facing the immense South

China Sea.

A Scenic Reservoir From the dams of High Island Reservoir, take in the panoramic view of mountains and coasts. Built from 1971 to 1979, the reservoir has a capacity of 280 million m2, surpassing any other in the city. Since November 2009, it has been listed as part of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, highlighting its sizeable series of acidic rhyolite volcanic columns rarely seen in the world.

Hexagonal rock columns

These columns resembling a ‘petrified waterfall’

in the East Dam, Long Ke and Sai Wan have existed

for hundreds of millions of years. They were

formed by the cooling and contracting mixture of

lava, rock debris and volcanic ash. Later, violent

crustal movement created the existing twists and

folds. This ‘natural fresco’ is best viewed from the

East Dam.

Unusual Sea Caves

Wind and wave erosion over the years have crafted

unique sea caves along Sai Kung Pen

insula. At the

end of the High Island Geo Trail, you have a closer

look at the entrance of a cave. But it

is only safe

to view from a distance – never enter the cave or

climb the rock cliffs.

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Bizarre Cofferdam

An East Dam cofferdam of dolosse protects

Sai Kung’s coast from the relentless forc

e of

the ocean. With 7000 dolosse, the East Dam

looks like a ‘Great Wall’ in the ocean. On

the trail near the East Dam, a giant dolos

commemorates the workers who died during

the construction of High Island Reservoir.

RECOMM

ENDED HikiNg TRails

PhoTos of This TraiL are Provided by hk discovery.

Po Pin Chau

East of the High Island facing the East Dam,

Po Pin Chau looks like it was chopped off

from the adjacent rock by a giant axe. It

was actually part of High Island, but isolated

by the chronic erosion of powerful waves.

Geographically, such an island is called a

’sea stack’.


To the starting point

1. From MTR Diamond Hill Station Exit C2,

take bus 92 to Sai Kung Bus Terminus.

Then at Sai Kung Town, take bus 94 for

Wong Shek Pier and get off at Pak Tam

Chung Station; or,

take bus 96R for Wong Shek Pier (this

route only operates on Sundays and

public holidays) from MTR Diamond Hill

Station Exit C2 and get off at Pak Tam

Chung Station.

Alternatively

From Sha Tin New Town Plaza Bus

Terminus, take bus 299 to Sai Kung Bus

Terminus. Then at Sai Kung Town, take

bus 94 for Wong Shek Pier and get off

at Pak Tam Chung Station.

2. After getting off the bus at Pak Tam

Chung Station, you’ll find the Pak Tam

Chung Barrier Gate. Walk along Tai

Mong Tsai Road for 5 minutes to the

starting point of the trail.

From the end point

Take NR29 minibus or a green taxi back

to the Sai Kung Town.

From here, public transport is available to

other destinations.

Area covered

Sai Kung District

Starting point

Pak Tam Chung

End point

Chui Tung Au (Sai Wan Pavilion)

Average hiking time

Approx. 7 hours

Distance

Approx. 14km

Replenishing stations

There is a refreshment kiosk near the Pak Tam

Chung Parking Area.

Pak Tam Chung High Island Reservoir West Dam High Island Reservoir East Dam

Sai Wan Pavilion

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3

4Long Ke

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Starting Point

End Point

Fairly Difficult

RECOMM

ENDED HikiNg TRails

10 | 11


Hiking Tips

Beaches and Peaks on the Sai Kung Peninsula Walking Section 2 of the MacLehose Trail, you’ll be treated to views of scenic coastline, mangroves and a chain of some of the most beautiful beaches in Hong Kong. White sands, emerald and blue waters are all tempting diversions for hikers in need of a refreshing dip.

Tai Long Wan, literally ‘Big Wave Bay’, has four beaches, all looking east to the surging Pacific Ocean.

COAsTAL TRAIL

MACLeHOse TRAIL seCTION 2(TAI LONg wAN)

Starting point - Sai Wan Pavilion1

Sai Wan

Starting at Sai Wan Pavilion,

pass Chui

Tung Au and head for Sai Wan, a beach

popular with hikers and surfers. There

are a number of small eateries here too.

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Ham Tin Wan

Overlooking the Ham Tin Beach is a

rickety single-plank bridge crossing

a stream on the sand dunes. Enjoy

village and sea views on the bridge

as you avoid people coming in the

other direction!

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Pak Tam Au

This is where Section 2 of the MacLehose Trail ends

and Section 3 begins. Together with the nearby

Ngau Wu Tun this is an ideal spot for camping and

orienteering. It also commands a fine prospect of

Ko Tong Hau and the Wong Shek Pier below.

pHotos of tHis trail are provided by HK discovery.

4

Tai Long Au

You must pass through Tai Long

Au to climb up Sharp Peak – one

of the steepest in Hong Kong. Even

if you wimp out on the climb, the

views from Tai Long Au of Ham

Tin Beach and Sharp Peak are still

breathtaking.

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Chek Keng

Chek Keng is a 200-year old village in an

inner gulf of Sai Kung. There are several

kinds of mangroves growing near the

shallow waters, which are inhabited by

lively fiddler crabs and mudskippers.

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12 | 13macleHose trail section 2 (tai long Wan)

Jan Chan Seasoned Hiker Founder of green company HK Discovery, Jan leads expeditions to such challenging environments as the Arctic, the Antarctic, Kenya and Borneo with his Mighty Rovers project. In Hong Kong, he operates over a hundred eco-tours yearly and hosted his own radio programme about ecotourism.

The path via Tai Long Sai Wan has soft soil that favours the growth of numerous Chinese herbs. The most famous ones are China root and False Pineapple (Pandanus tectorius) – nicknamed after its funny shape and bright colour. (As tempting as these herbs might look, please only take photos away with you.)



1. From MTR Diamond Hill Station Exit C2,

take bus 92 to Sai Kung Bus Terminus;

or,

from Sha Tin New Town Plaza Bus Terminus,

take bus 299 to Sai Kung Bus Terminus.

2. Then take a green taxi to the Sai Wan

Pavilion; or,

at Sai Kung Town (outside McDonald’s),

take NR29 minibus to Sai Wan Pavilion

(about 35 minutes ride).

From the end point

Take bus 94 to the Sai Kung Bus Terminus

or take a green taxi back to the Sai Kung

Town.


other destinations.

Area covered

Sai Kung District

Starting point

Chui Tung Au (Sai Wan Pavilion)

End point

Pak Tam Au

Average hiking time

Approx. 7 hours

Distance

11km


Eateries in Sai Wan and Ham Tin Village

Sai Wan Pavilion Sai Wan Ham Tin Wan

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3Chek Keng

4Tai Long Au

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Starting Point

Pak Tam Au 6End Point

Fairly Difficult

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Best Urban Hiking Experience in Asia Not only does the Dragon’s Back score high for cool hiking trail names, it was also voted the ‘Best Urban Hiking Trail in Asia’ by Time (Asia Ed.) in 2004. A short hop from the bustle of Hong Kong East, the trail provides stunning views of Shek O, Tai Long Wan, Stanley, Tai Tam, and the South China Sea.

16 | 17dragon’s bacK

Tai Long Wan Another ’Big Wave Bay‘ on Hong Kong

Island. In the summer, this makes a

good excuse to pack in the hiking and

go for a dip. An unobstructed bay, waves

reach several metres high in all seasons,

making this a surfer haunt. You can also

fuel up at nearby outdoor cafes.

Shek O Country Park

An urban oasis, this country park was

established in 1993 and has three

hiking routes: Hong Kong Trail Section

7, Section 8 (Dragon’s Back) and

Pottinger Peak Country Trail (Pottinger

Gap to Cap Collinson Road). The rare

barking deer roams the forests here. Shek O Peak At 284m high, the hilltop sigh

tseeing

platform on Shek O Peak is the perfect

place to catch your breath while

enjoying the panorama of Shek O, Tai

Long Wan and even Tung Lung Island.

High Energy on the Dragon’s Back

People come to a small mountain gap

high up on the Dragon’s Back to fly kites

or jump off into the great blue yonder

with paragliding wings.

URBAN LANDsCApes

DRAgON’s BACK

Starting point - Shek O Road

near To Tei Wan Village

1

Jan Chan Seasoned Hiker

As the Dragon’s Back is an exposed trail that runs along a mountain ridge, remember to protect yourself from UV rays, even on dull days and in the cooler seasons. For example, a hiker’s cap with a neck flap will keep you protected, cool and comfortable.

Hiking Tips

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pHotos of tHis trail are provided by HK discovery.

How the Dragon’s Back got its name

The Dragon’s Back is a path con

necting Wan

Cham Shan (226m) and Shek O Peak (284m),

stretching vertically over D

’Aguilar Peninsula.

The path undulates between these hilltops,

reminiscent of the shape of a

dragon’s

backbone.

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Trail Info



From MTR Shau Kei Wan Station Exit A3, take

bus 9 at Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus to To Tei

Wan, Shek O Road.

From the end point

1. Walk from Tai Long Wan to Shek O.

2. Then take bus 9 at Shek O Road back to

Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus.

From here, public transport is available to other

destinations.

Area covered

Southern District

Starting point

Shek O Road near To Tei Wan Village

End point

Tai Long Wan

Average hiking time

About 5 hours

Distance

8.5km


There is no replenishing station along the

way, so stock up with food and water at a

supermarket or convenience store in Shau Kei

Wan before starting out.

Shek O Road near To Tei Wan Village Dragon’s Back Pottinger Gap

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Starting Point

4Tai Long Wan

End Point

Easy

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Jan Chan Seasoned Hiker

The Shing Mun Reservoir is a paradise for woodland birds. They mainly gather at the south-west of the reservoir and the nearby catch-waters. Birdwatchers should come prepared!

Hiking Tips

20 | 21sHing mun reservoir

Pineapple Dam The Pineapple Dam is a smaller dam of the Shing Mun Reservoir, noticeable with a country park sign that looks like an ancient city gate (‘Shing Mun’). Many Hakka villagers settled here, and they grew pineapples. Nearby is the Pineapple Dam Nature Trail.

Tai Mo Shan Standing 957m, the hike begins at the highes

t

mountain (and coldest place) in Hong Kong.

During exceptionally chilly weather, many

locals scale the peak to catch a glimpse of

the exotic phenomenon of frost. Almost at the

centre of Hong Kong, you can look over the

whole territory on clear days (the night view

is stunning, too). In warmer months, the ways

uphill are often swallowed by fog.

Lead Mine Pass

The name of Lead Mine Pass is a hint

to its prosperous mining history. Deep

in the woods nearby, there are many

abandoned mines, some as much as a

century old. Mining ceased decades

ago and this is now known only as

the intersection of the MacLehose

Trail and the Wilson Trail.

Area Insights in the Visitor Centre The Shing Mun Country Park Visitor Centre is located next to the Pineapple Dam, and provides an introduction to the reservoir, living habits of the monkeys, close-by military ruins, and the abandoned mine and some mining tools. (Closed on Tuesdays)

LeAFy TRAIL

sHINg MUN ReseRvOIR Uncover an Eco-paradise Shing Mun Reservoir, completed in 1937, is a great source of fresh water and home to many species of butterflies and migratory birds. The village of Tai Wai in front of the reservoir is now gone, but its protective ‘Feng Shui woods’ remains, with more than 70 species of trees. There are a lot more flora and fauna to discover in this area, and this trail takes you to the heart of it all.

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pHotos of tHis trail are provided by HK discovery and tHe agriculture, fisHeries and conservation department.

Walk with monkeys Watch out for the monkeys!

You read that right – Shing

Mun has lots of monkeys.

Let them be the wild things

they are by keeping your

distance and not feeding

them.

Trail Info

2

3

Treasury of local plants The Shing Mun Arboretum is situated north of

the reservoir and occupies four hectares. Many

local trees were logged during the Second

World War and the post-war government

kicked off large-scale reforestation. The

arboretum here was established in the 1970s

and protects about 300 native or South China

plant species, including plants discovered in

Hong Kong and some endangered species.

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Nearby

Sights



At Tsuen Wan MTR Station (Exit A),

take bus 51 (towards Kam Sheung

Road) from Tsuen Wan Railway

Station bus stop and get off at

Country Park Station. Head back for

20 minutes to reach the gate at Tai

Mo Shan Road.

From the end point

At Pineapple Dam minibus terminus,

take green minibus 82 to the Tsuen

Wan Town.

From here, public transport is available

to other destinations.

Area covered

Tsuen Wan District

Starting point

Barrier gate at Tai Mo Shan

End point

Shing Mun Reservoir

Average hiking time

Approx. 6 hours

Distance

Approx. 11km


There is no replenishing station on the trail, so

stock up with food and water at a supermarket

or convenience store in Tsuen Wan.

22 | 23

Gate at Tai Mo Shan Lead Mine Pass1

2Starting Point

3Pineapple Dam, Shing Mun Reservior

End Point

Fairly Difficult

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Sham Wat Wan

With a variety of coastal habitats

such as rocky shores, boulder

shores, sand-flats, mudflats and

mangrove forests, this is a perfect

hideout for many creatures. Shells

and crustaceans scatter on the

sand-flats and mudflats, and

birds such as the great egret and

jungle crow circle above.

5

Sha Lo Wan

Sha Lo Wan has been inhabited for centuries

and is an important archaeology site.

There is a large ‘feng shui woods’ behind

the village. Follow the signs to the two

mammoth camphor trees, which are both

estimated to be more than 300 years old.

It would take six men to embrace the

trunk of one of them.

3

Po Chue Tam

Yeung Hau Temple, the biggest and most

significant temple of Tai O, has been situated at

Po Chue Tam since 1698, when Kangxi reigned

in the Qing dynasty. It is a Grade 1 historic

building. Surrounded by ‘Lion Hill’, ‘Elephant

Hill’, ‘Tiger Hill’ and ‘Phoenix Hill‘, it was built

to keep the legendary animals peaceful.

Mangroves

Tung Chung Bay, at the estuary of

the Tung Chung River

is home to a large area of mangroves. The

evergreen

tropical plant grows within the 20°C

isotherm of the

earth, and on estuaries or bays of weaker tides and

waves. Of the eight species o

f mangroves in Hong Kong,

four grow in this bay.

Starting point -

Tung Chung Town Centre

San Shek Wan

San Shek means ‘scattered boulders‘ in

Chinese and the shore is carpeted with

colourful pebbles. A variety of shore species

live here, including snails and rock oysters.

Human life is equally diverse with San

Shek Wan Village being home to local and

foreign residents.

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San Tau2

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6

24 | 25tung cHung to tai o

End point – Tai O

7

An ancient path into timeless nature On Lantau Island, the Tung O Ancient Trail was once an important passage for villagers to commute between Tung Chung and Tai O. You start the coastal path at Tung Chung in the east (with planes taking off over your head), follow it past mangroves and bays and end with traditional fare in a centuries-old fishing village.

HeRITAge HIKe

TUNg CHUNg to TAI O

Chan Yat-fong Seasoned Hiker

Be sure to reach Tai O before sunset because the last stage of this trail is rough, rocky and downhill – best not attented in poor light.

Hiking Tips

pHotos of tHis trail are provided by HK discovery and tHe agriculture, fisHeries and conservation department.

Nearby

Sights

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From MTR Tung Chung Station

Exit B, walk 3 minutes to Tung

Chung Fire Station. Walk down Yu

Tung Road passing by Yat Tung

Estate, and at the end turn right

into a path and start the journey

via Hau Wong Temple.

From the end point

Take New Lantao Bus Route 11 to MTR Tung

Chung Station.

Alternatively

Ride a ferry to the Tung Chung New Development

Ferry Pier.

From here, public transport is available to other

destinations.

Area covered

Islands District

Starting point

Tung Chung Town Centre

End point

Tai O

Average hiking time

Approx. 6 hours

Distance

15km


Simple replenishments can be purchased at a small

store at Sham Wat Wan.

26 | 27

San Shek Wan

Po Chue Tam Tai O

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Sham Wat Wan5

Tung Chung Town Centre San Tau23

4

Sha Lo WanStarting Point

End Point

Fairly Difficult

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28 | 29peaK circle WalK

Lugard Road The Peak Circle Walk starts at Lugard Road near

the Peak Tower. Built in 1913-1914, the road is

named after Hong Kong’s 14th Governor, Sir

Frederick Lugard. Some sections are ‘plank roads’

__ narrow cliff-side paths. About 20 minutes into

your stroll, you arrive at the Lugard Road Lookout

and a spectacular full view of Victoria Harbour.

Harlech Road

Lugard Road runs into Harlech Road, which will

take you back to the Peak Tower and the end of

your lap around The Peak. It takes 15 minutes

to cover the tree-shaded path, or a bit l

onger if

you stop to appreciate the waterfall below Mount

Austin Playground. Harlech Road is a favourite

with joggers.

Alternative

Route (1) Alt

ernativ

e

Route

(2)

1

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If you start about 90-mins before sundown, take the Peak Circle Walk in the opposite direction described here. Time it right, and you will be looking at Hong Kong Island’s scenic south side in afternoon light, and enjoying views of the north side and harbour as twilight gives way to night and the city’s downtown becomes a galaxy of shimmering lights.

If time and energy is on your side, turn right onto Hatton Road at the intersection of Lugard and Harlech and proceed straight ahead to Lung Fu Shan and Pinewood Battery. Overlooking the west side of Hong Kong Island, this served as a military stronghold during World War II. Farther ahead is the University of Hong Kong. Here you have a few options: take a tour of the university and return to Central via bus 13 on Kotewall Road, or follow Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Road located right across from The Peak Tower for an hour’s walk to Hong Kong’s first reservoir, built in 1860.

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If there is only one thing you can see in Hong Kong, it would have to be the view of Asia’s world city from Victoria Peak. The Peak Circle Walk is a leisurely and leafy walking path that circles The Peak (as it is known locally), affording the best views of the city.

pANORAMA OF vICTORIA HARBOUR

peAK CIRCLe wALK



From MTR Central Station Exit J2 and walk

to the Lower Terminus of the Peak Tram on

Garden Road for the scenic ride up to The

Peak on this iconic funicular train.

Alternatively

From MTR Hong Kong Station Exit D, then

take bus 15 from the Exchange Square Bus

Terminus to the Peak Galleria.

From the end point

Hop aboard the Peak Tram down to the

Garden Road Terminus.

Alternatively

Take bus 15 at the Peak Plaza down to the

Central Exchange Square Bus Terminus.


other destinations.

Area covered

Central and Western District

Starting point

Lugard Road

End point

Harlech Road

Average hiking time

About 1.5 hours

Distance

3.5km


There are no replenishing stations along the

route, so, before setting out, fuel up at a

restaurant or stock up at a store in The Peak

Galleria or The Peak Tower.

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Lugard Road12

Hariech RoadStarting PointEnd Point

Easy

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West and East A 30-minute sail from Hong Kong’s downtown, Lamma Island features a mingling of traditional Eastern culture with a laid-back Western lifestyle. The charms of multicultural island life blend to create an atmosphere that has proved irresistible for Hong Kong’s busy residents.Walking trails provide great sea views.

Lamma Island

32 | 33cHeung cHau, lamma island and peng cHau

Surf and Turf With more than 30,000 people on an island of about 3 sq km, Cheung Chau can be described as ‘bustling’. When the annual Cheung Chau Bun Festival draws in tens of thousands of visitors, including the island’s diaspora, it is thronged. Still, there is peace, nature and fascinating heritage to be found along its charming shores.

Cheung Chau

Peng ChauPast and Present Tiny Peng Chau used to be Hong Kong’s only industrialised Outlying Island. Today, the factories are replaced by organic farms and porcelain workshops, and life moves at a deliciously slow pace. Walking Peng Chau is walking through time.

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Within easy striking distance of Hong Kong’s high-paced downtown lie three outlying islands, renowned for a slower pace of life, scenic hikes and cultural charm.

OUTLyINg IsLANDs

CHeUNg CHAU, LAMMA IsLAND AND peNg CHAU

For the recommended trails in these three islands, please download the e-book Local Favourites: Your Guide to Hong Kong’s Outlying Islands, available at:

DiscoverHongKong.com/outlying_islands


complimentary guided tours & exHibitions34 | 35

Hong Kong Wetland Park Bird Watching Festival

Adjacent to Mai Po Inner Deep Bay Ramsar Site, Hong Kong Wetland Park is one of the best locations for bird watching in Hong Kong, with over 230 bird species recorded. The Bird Watching Festival 2011-12 will be held from 2 November 2011 until 12 March 2012. Ducks will be the theme this year and there will be duck-watching guided tours, ‘My Favourite Duck Poll’, DIY Workshops, bird photo collections and public lectures.

Opening Hours Closed on Tuesdays (Except public holidays) 10am - 5pm (ticket sales till 4pm)Organiser Hong Kong Wetland Park Admission Adult HK$30;

Child / Student / Senior HK$15Transportation - MTR Tin Shui Wai West Rail Station, change to 705 or 706 Light Rail and get off at Wetland Park

Station or Tin Sau Station - Citybus 967 from Admiralty to Wetland Park - Bus 276B from Sheung Shui MTR Station via Lok Ma Chau Interchange bus stop to Wetland ParkEnquiries +852 3152 2666Website www.wetlandpark.com

Hong Kong Wetland Park Guided Tour

Hong Kong Wetland Park includes various wetland habitats such as mangroves, freshwater marshes and mudflats that attract a diversity of wildlife. On this tour, a guide will take visitors around the Wetland Reserve to learn about the ecology of the wetlands, look for birds from nearby bird hides, and to take a closer look at the wetland animals, such as fiddler crabs and mudskippers, along the mangrove boardwalk. (Tour themes will vary according to the season.)

Frequency Every Monday, Wednesday to Friday (Except public holidays)Time/Duration 2:15pm – 3pm (English) 3:30pm – 4:15pm (Cantonese)Organiser Hong Kong Wetland Park Language English / Cantonese Admission Adult HK$30;

Child / Student / Senior HK$15Transportation - MTR Tin Shui Wai West Rail Station, change to 705 or 706 Light Rail and get off at Wetland Park Station or Tin Sau Station - Citybus 967 from Admiralty to Wetland Park - Bus 276B from Sheung Shui MTR Station via Lok Ma Chau Interchange bus stop to Wetland ParkEnquiries +852 3152 2666Website www.wetlandpark.comRemarks Visitors can enrol 10 minutes before the tour at the Wetland Discovery Centre (Wet Lab). Seats will

be allocated on a first-come-first-served basis.

complimentary guided tours & exHibitions are subject to cHange WitHout prior notice.

COMpLIMeNTARy gUIDeD TOURs & exHIBITIONs coMpliM

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eXHibiTions


complimentary guided tours & exHibitions36 | 37

Ngong Ping Fun Walk

Combine sightseeing and outdoor education on this fun family outing to Ngong Ping. The walk is approx. 2.5km long and includes six attractions: Misty Lantau, Ancient Gateway, Tree Walk Exploration, Sunrise on Lantau, Scenery of Lakes and Tea Walk.

Mai Po Wetland Experience

A nature-lover’s dream, Mai Po Nature Reserve is internationally recognised as an annual staging ground and wintering site for up to 100,000 migratory water birds. The Reserve is also home to a wide range of other wetland wildlife. On this tour, you will visit a bird-watching hide, a shrimp pond and boardwalk, and learn more about the entire ecosystem at the Wildlife Education Centre. And you’ll get a personal daily pass to do some exploring of your own after the tour.

Prehistoric Story Room

An extension of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China in the city centre, the Prehistoric Story Room is a fun and informative exhibition of the Earth’s life history. Almost 100 valuable fossils and models are displayed, including a three-metre long Armoured Fish model as well as ammonite and fish fossils discovered in and named after Hong Kong.

Frequency DailyTime/Duration 10am - 4pm (approx. 45 minutes

per session)Organiser Ngong Ping Nature Centre Admission Free Language English / Cantonese / MandarinTransportation Take Ngong Ping Cable Car or Bus 23 from Tung Chung Town Centre to Ngong PingEnquiries +852 2259 3916Website www.afcd.gov.hkRemarks You can register on site or call for

advance booking.

Frequency Every SaturdayTime/Duration 10am – 1pm (approx. 3 hours)Organiser World Wide Fund-Hong Kong Language English / Cantonese / MandarinTransportation MTR Sheung Shui Station or Yuen

Long Station then take a green taxi to the Mai Po Nature Reserve Visitor Centre

Enquiries +852 2471 3480 [email protected] HK$120 admission fee to visit

Mai Po Nature Reserve. Advance booking is required.

Opening Hours Mondays & Wednesdays to Sundays: 9am – 6pm Closed on Tuesdays (except public holidays) and on the first two days of the Chinese New Year Organiser Association for Geoconservation,

Hong Kong Admission Free Address Lobby, Bank of China Tower, 1 Garden Road, Hong Kong.Transportation MTR Central Station Exit J2 and walk for 5 minutesEnquiries [email protected] www.geopark.gov.hk/phsr

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eXHibiTions


commercial guided tours38 | 39

Sai Kung Coastal Treasures (Hong Kong Global Geopark of China and a UNESCO award-winning temple)

The best way to appreciate the rugged, steep coastlines and dramatic volcanic rock columns of Sai Kung’s islands is by taking a boat tour. The cruise will take you through Hebe Haven and Port Shelter, before visiting the historic Hung Shing Temple, a UNESCO Heritage Site on Kau Sai Chau. You’ll also see Rocky Harbour, a unique region of imposing rich geo-diversity, including a magnificent sea arch and sea stacks. Finally you will go ashore and walk along the waterfront promenade at Sai Kung.

Frequency Every SaturdayTime/Duration Approx. 6 hoursOrganiser Splendid Tours & Travel Ltd Language English Tour Price HK$600 per person

(minimum 8 people)Enquiries +852 2316 2151

Geopark Hiking Tour

The tour heads along the High Island Reservoir route in the Sai Kung East Country Park, then proceeds to the easterly endpoint where you get a view of the magnificent hexagonal volcanic column wall. You’ll walk back along the reservoir road, and enter the Sai Kung Country Park via a lush green pathway used by villagers many years ago. The tour ends in the Sheng Yiu Folk museum, which is a preserved village typical of the local area in former times.

Northeast New Territories Geopark Tour

As part of the Hong Kong Global Geopark of China, the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Park Region represents the most comprehensive stratigraphy in Hong Kong. On this leisurely boat trip, you will discover the scenic beauty of Tolo Channel and Yan Chau Tong Marine Park (Double Haven). Shore excursions to the Lai Chi Wo Hakka village, and geo-attractions on Ap Chau Island provide an amazing ‘off the beaten track’ taste of Hong Kong.

Frequency Every Monday to Friday (Except public holidays. Please check the current schedule with the organiser.)

Time/Duration 8:30am – 5pm (8.5 hours)Organiser Walk Hong Kong LtdLanguage English / GermanTour Price HK$800 per person

(including transport)Difficulty EasyEnquiries +852 9187 8641

Frequency Every Saturday from September 2011 to February 2012

Time/Duration Approx. 5 hoursOrganiser Traway Travel LtdLanguage EnglishTour Price HK$390 per personPick-up Time & Point 8:15am at Middle Road,

Tsim Sha TsuiEnquiries +852 2527 2513

COMMeRCIAL gUIDeD TOURs

commercial guided tours are subject to cHange WitHout prior notice.

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commercial guided tours

COMMeRCIAL gUIDeD TOURs

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Deserted Beaches Hike (Sai Kung East Country Park)

The setting for this tour is the white sandy beaches and clear blue waters of Sai Kung East Country Park. The walk takes you along coastline backed by lush tropical vegetation and forested ridges, offering spectacular mountain and coastal sea views. Following a network of paths you’ll pass fascinating old Hakka clan villages. Although just 20km from Kowloon, this tour will make you feel like you are a world away from everything.

Dolphin Watching Tour

The tour offers you the rare opportunity to see Hong Kong’s endangered pink dolphins in their scenic, natural habitat in and around the Sha Chau and Lung Kwu Chau Marine Park, in the western waters of Hong Kong. The tour sails past Hong Kong International Airport and along the scenic coast of Lantau Island where you will see fishermen at work.

Dragon’s Back Hike (Shek O Country Park)

A lovely cool path takes you through shady groves of bamboo and lush woodland. You emerge into open hillsides often covered with wild azaleas or rose myrtle. Then you cross into Shek O Country Park and follow the coast and join the Dragon’s Back trail, declared the ‘Best Urban Hike in Asia’ by TIME Asia Magazine (22 November 2004 Asia Issue).

Hong Kong Biking Tour

This tour includes a visit to an age-old walled village, a mysterious tree house and world-class bird reserve. You’ll cycle to the south of the Mai Po Reserve, where thousands of migratory birds spend the winter. Then it’s on to Yuen Long for a dim sum lunch. The full version of the tour continues through more wetlands around Deep Bay and the Lau Fau Shan fishing village. The day concludes with an optional 2-3 hour visit to the Hong Kong Wetland Park.

Frequency Every Wednesday and SaturdayTime/Duration 9am - 2pm / 5pm (5-8 hours) for full version, 9am - noon (3 hours) for short versionOrganiser International Cyclists to Asia Language English (French / Spanish on request) Tour Price HK$600 (full version) per person; HK$350 (short version) per person (minimum 4 people)Cycling Time Approx. 4 hours maximum Cycling Distance 28km maximum Difficulty Easy Enquiries [email protected] (contact by email preferred) +852 2454 9191

Take a look at the virtual tour for a preview at www.mountainbikingasia.com.

Frequency Please check the current schedule with the organiserTime/Duration 8:30am - 5pm (8.5 hours)Organiser Walk Hong Kong Ltd Language English / German / French Tour Price HK$800 per person (including transport) Difficulty Fairly difficult Enquiries +852 9187 8641

Frequency Please check the current schedule with the organiserTime/Duration 8:30am - 12:30pm (4 hours)Organiser Walk Hong Kong Ltd Language English / German / French Tour Price HK$500 per person (including transport) Difficulty Fairly difficult Enquiries +852 9187 8641

Frequency Every Wednesday, Friday and SundayTime/Duration 9am - 1pm (4 hours) Organiser Hong Kong Dolphinwatch Ltd Language English / Japanese / Mandarin / Cantonese Tour Price Adult HK$380; Child HK$190 (aged 3-11) Pick-up Time & Point 9am at Kowloon Hotel Lobby Enquiries +852 2984 1414

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HIKINg TIpsBefore starting your hike, carefully make a plan and familiarise yourself with your route. Gauge whether your fitness level is appropriate for the difficulty level of the route. Amateurs should not go hiking alone or attempt to take any short cuts on their own; instead, they are recommended to go with experienced hikers so as not to get lost or have accidents.

Pay attention to weather conditions. Wear appropriate gear and bring along extra clothing and supplies, such as maps, compasses, hiking sticks, water, food, electric torches, umbrellas, radios, first-aid kits and mobile phones, etc.

Remain alert to changes in the surrounding environment and listen to weather bulletins and news reports in order to take appropriate measures as soon as possible. In the event of bad weather, consider shortening or cancelling all hiking plans.

Bring a hat or parasol to prevent heat stroke. Also pack a raincoat or windbreaker in case it rains.

Pay attention to the signs and terrain along the road to ensure that the route is correct. Always heed warning signs.

Do not pick and eat wild fruit or drink spring water.

Cooking or making fires is only permitted in designated areas. It is against the law to do so elsewhere, and could result in mountain fires.

Avoid standing at a cliff edge or climbing onto rocks to take pictures or view scenery.

The quality of mobile phone coverage varies throughout Hong Kong’s trails. Poor coverage is especially likely to occur in locations such as Tai Long and Ham Tin in eastern Sai Kung, south-eastern High Island and the central part of Tai Lam Country Park.

In the event of an emergency, note the number of the nearest distance post (e.g., M001) along your way, and call 112 to connect to 999 Emergency Centre or use the nearest emergency telephone.

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For more details on hiking safety, please visit the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department website at www.hkwalkers.net/eng/longtrail/hike_safety/hike_safety.htm

USEFUl TElEPHoNE NUMBERS:24-hour emergency helpline 999 / 112

Hong Kong & Kowloon Ferry +852 2815 6063

New World First Ferry +852 2131 8181

Hong Kong Observatory +852 1878 200

Agriculture, Fisheries and +852 2418 9080Conservation Department hotline

Quality Tourism Services (QTS) SchemeIf you need to buy hiking gear in Hong Kong, look for sports goods and sportswear shops displaying the Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme sign that you can trust for superb service with clearly displayed prices and product information. The QTS Scheme is also applicable to other retail shops, restaurants, visitor accommodation and hair salons.

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Hong Kong International AirportVisitor Centre Buffer Halls A and B, Arrivals Level, Terminal 1

Kowloon Visitor CentreStar Ferry Concourse, Tsim Sha Tsui8am – 8pm daily

Hong Kong Island Visitor CentreThe Peak Piazza(between The Peak Tower and The Peak Galleria)9am – 9pm daily

Lo Wu Information Centre Arrival Hall, 2/F, Lo Wu Terminal Building

Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Information Services

Information is correct as of October 2011, but is subject to change without prior notice. Hong Kong Tourism Board disclaims any liability for the quality or fitness for the purpose of third-party products or services, or for any errors or omissions.© Copyright Hong Kong Tourism Board 2011

9am - 6pm dailyWebsite : DiscoverHongKong.comVisitor Hotline : +852 2508 1234

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Hong kong hikes and parks

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