Post on 17-May-2015
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
1
4
32
5
8
7
6
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.
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 2-3 10/28/11 6:21:31 PM
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.
1
4
3
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
Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina
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!
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 4-5 10/28/11 6:21:53 PM
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.
5
6
7
8
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
Hong Kong global geoparK of cHina
*You can also join the Northeast New Territories
Geopark Tour (P.39).
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 6-7 10/28/11 6:22:19 PM
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.
1
2
3
4
5
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’.
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 8-9 10/28/11 5:56:29 PM
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
12
3
4Long Ke
5
Starting Point
End Point
Fairly Difficult
RECOMM
ENDED HikiNg TRails
10 | 11
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 10-11 10/28/11 3:58:04 PM
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.
2
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!
3
6
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.
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
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.
5
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.)
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 12-13 10/28/11 6:23:03 PM
To the starting point
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.
From here, public transport is available to
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
Replenishing stations
Eateries in Sai Wan and Ham Tin Village
Sai Wan Pavilion Sai Wan Ham Tin Wan
12
3Chek Keng
4Tai Long Au
5
Starting Point
Pak Tam Au 6End Point
Fairly Difficult
14 | 15
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 14-15 10/28/11 6:23:10 PM
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
2
3
4
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.
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
Trail Info
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 16-17 10/28/11 6:23:21 PM
To the starting point
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
Replenishing stations
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
1
23
Starting Point
4Tai Long Wan
End Point
Easy
18 | 19
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 18-19 10/28/11 6:23:30 PM
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.
1
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.
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
Nearby
Sights
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 20-21 10/28/11 6:23:40 PM
To the starting point
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
Replenishing stations
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
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 22-23 10/28/11 6:23:48 PM
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.
1
San Tau2
4
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
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 24-25 10/28/11 6:24:07 PM
To the starting point
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
Replenishing stations
Simple replenishments can be purchased at a small
store at Sham Wat Wan.
26 | 27
San Shek Wan
Po Chue Tam Tai O
1
76
Sham Wat Wan5
Tung Chung Town Centre San Tau23
4
Sha Lo WanStarting Point
End Point
Fairly Difficult
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 26-27 10/28/11 6:24:13 PM
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
2
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.
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
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
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 28-29 10/28/11 6:24:30 PM
To the starting point
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.
From here, public transport is available to
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
Replenishing stations
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.
30 | 31
Lugard Road12
Hariech RoadStarting PointEnd Point
Easy
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 30-31 10/28/11 6:24:40 PM
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.
recoMM
enDeD HiKing Trails
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
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 32-33 10/28/11 6:24:59 PM
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
enTarY gUiDeD ToUrs &
eXHibiTions
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 34-35 10/28/11 6:25:05 PM
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 publicvisit@wwf.org.hkRemarks 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 phsr@rocks.org.hkWebsite www.geopark.gov.hk/phsr
COMpLIMeNTARy gUIDeD TOURs & exHIBITIONs coMpliM
enTarY gUiDeD ToUrs &
eXHibiTions
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 36-37 10/28/11 6:25:10 PM
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.
coMM
ercial gUiDeD ToUrs
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 38-39 10/28/11 6:25:19 PM
commercial guided tours
COMMeRCIAL gUIDeD TOURs
40 | 41
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 bikehongkong@mountainbikingasia.com (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
coMM
ercial gUiDeD ToUrs
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 40-41 10/28/11 6:25:23 PM
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.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
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.
42 | 43
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 42-43 10/28/11 6:25:26 PM
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
44 | 45
HKTB_booklet_28oct.indd 44-45 10/28/11 6:25:28 PM