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6 Incredible Hikes In Hong Kong
Sharp Peak, Hong Kong
Hong Kong is an incredible destination for anyone looking to experience Asian culture. Famous as a global hub for finance and trade, this metropolitan behemoth gives travelers some of the world's best opportunities to experience incredible restaurants and nightlife that you would want from a major city. There is so much to do in the city of Hong Kong, and travelers to this area can easily be trapped into thinking that the city is all there is to do.
During my 6 weeks in Hong Kong, I was so excited to learn that Hong Kong offers far more than the hustle bustle of downtown city life. Many locals throughout Asia go hiking on the weekends to enjoy nature and get quality exercise. The hiking opportunities in this corner of Asia are amazing. Hong Kong itself is an island, and is far from flat. The terrain of Hong Kong is full of mini-mountains that are perfect for day hikes. No where else in my travels have I been able to summit a mountain peak, lay alongside the ocean on a Caribbean worthy beach, eat dinner at a fabulous restaurant in a major metropolis, and enjoy fun nightlife all in the same day.
I found 6 incredible hikes that need to be on your list of things to do if you are traveling to Hong Kong. All of these hikes can be done in a day and do not require overnight camping. In general, I found camping to not be a popular phenomenon throughout Asia, but they do like to hike. I introduce the six hikes in this blog, but make sure to click the links to my website pages for much more detail on how to hike these trails including maps and itinerary recommendations.
Hiking to Sharp Peak and Tai Long Wan Beach will be a fantastic part of your adventure to Hong Kong. Located on the Sai Kung Peninsula, east on the Kowloon side, this area of Hong Kong offers some incredible views, Caribbean worthy beaches, and is only about an hour total commute away from the major metropolitan city of Hong Kong. The Maclehose Trail weaves throughout the Sai Kung Peninsula. This hike includes my favorite section of the trail. Make sure to save at least a day in your Hong Kong trip for exploring this incredibly beautiful landscape, and don't forget your bathing suit!
Lion Rock is a fantastic hike to catch the sunset over Hong Kong. Getting the best view of downtown Hong Kong will cost you in pure grit and sweat. Soaring above the skyline, this hike offers a stunning 360° vantage point. This is one of the well-kept secrets of Hong Kong. There were few tourists that made the tough climb to Lion Rock. The difficulty of finding the trail from downtown is likely a reason. Anyone looking to explore nature on their trip to Hong Kong needs to check out Lion Rock.
Victoria Peak will give visitors incredible panoramic views of Hong Kong and its mesmerizing skyline. Located on Hong Kong island, this peak is one of Hong Kong's most popular destinations. You will not find solitude here but the impressive vantage point of the bustling city of Hong Kong is definitely worth it. Victoria's Peak is very commercialized, offering a bus to and from the top, a shopping mall for visitors, and a popular cable car to go up and down the peak. But those seeking a challenge can hike from downtown all the way to the top using one of three different trail options. If you are coming to Hong Kong, a stop to Victoria's Peak needs to be on your list.
Lantau Island to the west of Hong Island offers more opportunities to get away from the concrete jungle and experience some fantastic hiking and sites. Most visitors travel to Lantau Island to see the Tian Tian Buddha (Big Buddha) and miss out on hiking to the top of Lantau Peak. This hike provides an absolutely incredible view of the island and surrounding water. A perfect day on Lantau Island starts with this day hike to Lantau Peak and finishing with a tour of the Big Buddha. This hike is a challenge logistically. Make sure to check out my route information and recommended itinerary.
Dragon's Back is a great hike that any skill level can do. It is overall a moderate hike and can be accomplished by the novice hiker, but will still be enjoyed by those with experience. The hike is about 4.5 miles long, starting from the Chain Wan MTR station and ending at the Shek O Road bus stop. Getting to the trail can be a bit tricky, but if you follow the map instructions in my guide, you should not have a problem. The hike itself will take about 2-3 hours. After the hike, take the 9 bus from Shek O Road bus stop to Shek O Beach for a relaxing reward for a good days hike. The Shek O Beach was a bit crowded and run over by locals, but was definitely still worth a visit.
Dragon's Back is a great hike that any skill level can do. It is overall a moderate hike and can be accomplished by the novice hiker, but will still be enjoyed by those with experience. The hike is about 4.5 miles long, starting from the Chain Wan MTR station and ending at the Shek O Road bus stop. Getting to the trail can be a bit tricky, but if you follow the map instructions in my guide, you should not have a problem. The hike itself will take about 2-3 hours. After the hike, take the 9 bus from Shek O Road bus stop to Shek O Beach for a relaxing reward for a good days hike. The Shek O Beach was a bit crowded and run over by locals, but was definitely still worth a visit.