Every day, thousands of buses, taxis, and trams crowd through the urban canyons of Hong Kong. But besides night markets, shopping centres, and galleries, besides glass and steel, the “Fragrant Harbor” on the Pearl River Delta has countless small islands, temples, old villages, and nature reserves to offer. The best way to see the many facets of Hong Kong is to take long walks and hikes. We provide five walking routes in Hong Kong before which bring you closer to the city, its nature, and its inhabitants: 
Lantau Island: To the top of the great Buddha
If you fly into Hong Kong, you should go to Lantau Island. At around 934 m, Lantau Peak is the second-highest mountain in Hong Kong. You can start a hike to the summit directly from the coast or Ngong Ping. The latter option also allows a visit to the Po Lin Temple and the great Tian Tan Buddha. The roughly two-hour climb from Ngong Ping is steep and lined with low shrubs and grasses. The winding paths soon let you enjoy a view of all parts of the island, with villages, greenery, and the airport. The ascent in the early morning is incredibly beautiful when you reach the summit with the sunrise.
Tip: Extend the hike over neighbouring hills, end it at one of Lantau’s numerous beaches, and then take a dip in the sea.
Hong Kong Island: Once around Victoria Peak
With these hiking routes in Hong Kong, banking districts, beaches, and neighbourhoods in upheaval also have many hiking trails. One possibility to explore almost all facets of the city and still lace your shoes is the leisurely circular hike around the peak, which can easily be extended to a 7 km hike. The circular walk begins on Lugard Road near the Peak Tower and leads past steep slopes and lush greenery to the island’s best viewpoints over Victoria Harbour and the south side of Hong Kong Island.
Tip: If you are in the mood for more nature, you can turn from Lugard Road onto Harlech Road and walk the ” Hong Kong Trail. ” Through forests with aerial roots, you then come to the Pok Fu Lam Reservoir.
New Territories: experience culture and nature
Hong Kong’s New Territories are usually not top of the list for a first visit. Wrongly, because right here in the north of the city, there are many old so-called ” walled villages ” and beautiful nature reserves. The metro takes you to Fan Ling in the east or Yuen Long in the west within a short time. This consists of two volcanic mountain ridges, and the hiking routes in Hong Kong are among the least developed. The paths are hardly paved and very steep but are well secured in the most rugged places. It is best to hike here in autumn or winter and enjoy the plains’ unique view to Shenzhen. From Fan Ling, you can force the summit over hundreds of steps. The steep descent ends near the Botanical Garden and Kadoorie Farm, where you can relax in the cafe etc. You can also take the light rail and minibus a few stops further from Yuen Long or Long Ping to the ” Wetland Park ” and through the swampy nature reserve stroll.
Lamma Island: Relaxed Hiking
The restlessness of the city has not only led to an increase in yoga studios, but many Hong Kongers are also looking for peace on one of the surrounding islands. The most famous and popular retreat is Lamma Island. You can take the ferry from Central to the island in just under an hour, and from Sok Kwu Wan, you can take the most cemented hiking trails across the island towards Yung Shue Wan. Besides small villages and temples, Lamma Island also offers beaches for refreshments and many small restaurants. The island is traffic-calmed and can, therefore, only be explored on foot or by bike.
For advanced users: the MacLehose Trail
The MacLehose Trail connects the western and eastern New Territories with over 100 km. Located to the east of the city, Saikung is considered a bold, rugged area with clear water, beautiful beaches, and some of the most challenging hiking routes in Hong Kong. Parts 1 and 2 of the MacLehose Trail run through Sai Kung East Country Park. From Diamond Hill Metro Station, take the bus and get off at Pak Tam Chung. We continue north via the villages of Sai Wan and Ham Tin. After several kilometres through a rather barren terrain, you will arrive at the end of the second part and take the bus from the Pak Tam Au Management Center stop.
General tips
It’s no wonder that a surprising number of Hong Kong people go hiking with enthusiasm. They owe the fact that they can pursue this hobby so intensively to tectonics – and the British. The rough rocky landscapes, steep mountains, and lonely bays are relics of ancient volcanic eruptions around 150 million years ago. Everything that goes beyond the geological configuration goes to the British account, who have drilled a prime example of reforestation here.
Between November and February, the winter months are best for longer hikes as the weather here is more relaxed and drier. Since Hong Kong is in the subtropical zone, you should have enough water and salty snacks with you. Often the paths are not worked out, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Sunscreen and anti-insect spray, as well as long, airy clothing, are highly recommended.
