10 Best Parks on the Hong Kong mainland
Explore the Hong Kong Mainland's Most Beautiful Outdoor Spaces
All across the Hong Kong mainland, you’ll find beautiful parks and gardens that provide a relaxing escape from the hectic nature of city life. Hong Kong’s topography features dramatic rolling hills, plunging valleys, and peaks providing panoramic views. However, even in the main thoroughfare of Kowloon, there are large landscaped gardens to enjoy.
In Kowloon Park or Sha Tin Park there are tons of activities to enjoy with your family, or if you fancy a more intrepid adventure, then head north out of the city and discover the vast wilderness of the country parks.
1. Chater Garden
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Chater Garden is directly east of the Legislative Council building, in Hong Kong Island’s Central district. Thanks to its close proximity to the building, the garden has hosted political rallies and demonstrations.
The garden was developed in the 1970s, and opened to the public in Octover 1978. Chater Garden often attracts families and couples looking to enjoy moments of peace in the bustling Central district. There are several small pools and fountains, manicured bushes and trees throughout.
Location: Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong
Chater Garden
2. Cheung Kong Park
A little oasis in the city’s heart
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The compact but lovely Cheung Kong Park can be found in the popular Central district, within a 5-minute walk of St. John’s Cathedral. This well-maintained landscape offers plenty of photo opportunities, thanks to its many beautiful ponds and miniature waterfalls.
On weekdays, you’ll find many office workers relaxing and having lunch on benches dotting the park. It gets especially busy in the early mornings, with locals practicing tai chi, and jogging or cycling along the attractive paved paths that wind through lush greenery.
Location: Chater Road, Central, Hong Kong Island
Cheung Kong Park
3. Choi Sai Woo Park
Plenty for the whole family to enjoy
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Choi Sai Woo Park is located near the top of Braemar Hill, serving as a social hub for the Choi Sai neighborhood. This landscaped garden provides a spot of greenery among the local housing estates and schools.
There are 2 small basketball courts, a playground, exercise stations, and a pavilion within the recreational park. At the Eastern-most edge of the park you’ll find an attractive little section to explore called the Greenery Mini-Garden. Casual restaurants and convenience stores are just minutes away on foot.
Location: Braemar Hill Rd, North Point, Hong Kong Island
Open: Daily from 7 am to 11 pm
Phone: +852 2564 2673
Choi Sai Woo Park
4. Harcourt Garden
An art installation of historic blocks
Good for: Couples, Photo, Unusual
Harcourt Garden is an attractive recreational park near the Admiralty MTR station, about half a mile east of the imposing Bank of China Tower. Spanning 3.3 acres, the park has a landscaped deck with terraced-step seats, lush lawns and plants, as well as covered benches.
Harcourt Garden’s main attraction is its 29 granite blocks dating back to the 19th century, arranged to form an art installation. The park is also intersected by the chic, modernist Two Queensway Bridge where you can admire the park from on high.
Location: Harcourt Rd, Admiralty, Hong Kong Island
Phone: +852 4753 6980
Harcourt Garden
5. Hong Kong Park
Elevated walkways, beautiful lakes, and luscious greenery
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Hong Kong Park offers a natural, relaxing environment in the middle of the Central district. One of the largest public parks in Hong Kong, it covers 20 acres of green space that’s dotted with fountains, lily ponds, and playgrounds.
The park features an elevated walkway that lets you explore the tree canopy at various heights and angles, while there’s also a large greenhouse that holds plant exhibitions throughout the year. When you’re getting hungry from all the exploring, head to the Pondside restaurant for lunch with views of the lake.
Location: 19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central, Hong Kong Island
Open: Daily from 6 am to 11 pm
Phone: +852 2521 5041
Hong Kong Park
6. Victoria Park
Good for: Couples, Families, Single, Group
Victoria Park is one of the busiest parks in Causeway Bay – tai chi classes take place in the early mornings, and locals and visitors are often seen strolling along the well-laid paths or relaxing on benches throughout the day. The park has a bronze statue of Queen Victoria, as well as purpose-built jogging track, sports facilities, and a swimming pool.
Victoria Park hosts a wide range of events year-round. Some of its most popular festivals include the Mid-Autumn Festival, Flower Market (in conjunction with Chinese New Year), and the June 4th Candlelight Vigil.
Location: Victoria Park, Hing Fat Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Victoria Park
7. Kowloon Park
A family-friendly park that’s home to many birds
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Kowloon Park, a beautiful green spot in the city, offers a wide selection of free activities for the kids to let off some steam, including a swimming pool, a games area, and an outdoor sculpture park.
There are plenty of paved paths for walking, along with grassy spots for relaxing and taking things easy a little. You’ll also find small ponds, streams, and classic Chinese gardens dotting the 32-acre park. If you’re a bird lover, Kowloon Park’s onsite lake is home to more than 200 birds of 18 different species.
Location: 22 Austin Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 5 am to midnight
Kowloon Park
8. Kowloon Walled City Park
A historic park with 8 zones to explore
Good for: Couples, Families, History, Photo
The Kowloon Walled City Park is one of the original, ancient walled cities of Hong Kong. It has now been preserved as a beloved city park. Though only the Old South Gate remains from the fabled Walled City, you can get a sense of these first settlers and their enclosed fortresses.
The design of the park is based on the Jiangnan garden style of the early Qing Dynasty and is divided into 8 distinct scenic zones. The park’s most popular features include the Garden of Chinese Zodiac and Yamen, the only remaining Qing dynasty building.
Location: Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 6.30 am to 11 pm
Kowloon Walled City Park
9. Lai Chi Kok Park
Super popular with skateboarders
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Lai Chi Kok Park in Kowloon lies around 4 miles southeast of the New Territories. This public park is popular among skateboarders as it’s home to one of the largest skate parks in Hong Kong. You can take advantage of its many sports facilities, including an indoor sports center and swimming pool.
This extensive, L-shaped park also provides plenty of luscious green spaces and a Chinese Lingnan-style garden. This is a remarkably lovely park, virtually unknown to tourists, and a great place to take photos.
Location: 1 Lai Wan Rd, Lai Chi Kok, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2307 0429
Lai Chi Kok Park
10. Sung Wong Toi Garden
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Sung Wong Toi Garden is home to an important relic in Kowloon: a rectangular boulder that serves as a memorial to the last 2 boy emperors of the Southern Song Dynasty, Zhao Shi and Zhao Bing. The rock was originally located on top of Sacred Hill, but was relocated to the park after World War II.
Located at the junction of Sung Wong Toi Road and Ma Tau Chung Road, Sung Wong Toi Garden was specially created as a home for the memorial, and features picnic spots, beautiful trees, walking paths and a fountain.
Location: Sung Wong Toi Garden, Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Sung Wong Toi Garden
11. Urban Council Centenary Garden
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The Urban Council Centenary Garden was named in honor of the centennial of the establishment of the Urban Council, but it’s more commonly known as Centenary Garden.
The park has 2 sections, one of which is home to a huge fountain, while the other provides space for public events. Located in Tsim Sha Tsui East, the Urban Council Centenary Garden is within walking distance of the Hong Kong Museum of History, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, and Hong Kong Coliseum.
Location: Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Urban Council Centenary Garden
12. Hong Kong Wetland Park
A haven for nature and wildlife
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families, Photo
The Hong Kong Wetland Park is a conservation area spanning over 10,000 square miles of wetlands and a 148-acre reservation area with re-created habitats for wildlife. This natural park attracts those interested in discovering a greener side of the city-rich island.
The park also has around 235 bird species, 150 butterfly species, 9 species of amphibians, 23 different types of reptile, and 11 mammal species. As well as being a haven for nature, the Wetland Park is renowned for its architecture and innovative landscaping, having received numerous design awards.
Location: Wetland Park Rd, Tin Shui Wai, Hong Kong
Open: Wednesday–Monday from 10 am to 5 pm, closed Tuesday
Hong Kong Wetland Park
13. Sha Tin Central Park
A riverside spot that’s great for birdwatching
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Sha Tin Park is located on the western bank of the Shing Mun River, close to the Sha Tin Public Library, New Town Plaza, and Sha Tin Town Hall. The park consists of 6 themed gardens and houses over 110,000 plants of 400 species. You’ll also find a man-made waterfall and 2 banyan tree bridges here.
The South Garden at Sha Tin Park provides some of the best backdrops for photographs, while the Birds Conservation Area is home to a variety of native and exotic birds.
Location: 2 Yuen Wo Road, Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 6.30 am to 11 pm
Sha Tin Central Park
14. Tai Po Waterfront Park
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Tai Po Waterfront Park covers an area of 22 hectares in the New Territories, making it one of Hong Kong’s largest parks. Onsite facilities include a 32.4-meter spiral staircase lookout tower with telescopes for you to check out the surrounding high-rises.
The park also has a 1.2-km-long promenade, gardens, sitting areas, and a 600-seat amphitheater. You can also enjoy some outdoor activities at Tai Po Waterfront Park – there’s a cycling track along Tolo Harbour, along with a jogging trail dotted with exercise stations.
Location: Dai Hei Street, Tai Po, New Territories, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 8.15am to 11.45pm
Phone: +852 2664 2107
Tai Po Waterfront Park
15. Tsing Yi Park
Tennis, basketball, and greenery all around
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
The lovely Tsing Yi Park is a European-style garden with plenty of recreational facilities. Kids can enjoy the park’s mini soccer fields and playgrounds, while older visitors can play a few rounds at the tennis and basketball courts.
There are also plenty of scenic walking trails that pass by man-made lakes and waterfalls, a lookout pavilion that’s ideal for capturing great photo moments, and plenty of cherry and maple trees within the 17.5-acre landscape. The park is also very close to the Tsing Yi Promenade jogging trail that takes you along the scenic waterside.
Location: Tsing King Road, Tsing Yi, Hong Kong
Open: Daily from 5.30 am to 11.30 pm
Phone: +852 2435 0533
Tsing Yi Park
16. Yuen Long Park
A photogenic 7-story pagoda with great views
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Budget
Yuen Long Park is built on a natural woodland at Shui Ngau Leng in the New Territories. This ravine garden features a footbridge crossing a small stream, an artificial lake, and a waterfall. One of its most popular spots is the aviary pagoda, built on top of Shui Ngau Ling Hill.
The 7-story pagoda serves as a great lookout point, where you can enjoy views of Yuen Long Town. The lowest floor of the pagoda is an open aviary that’s home to over 100 birds of 30 different species.
Location: 1 Town Park Rd N, Yuen Long, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2473 6511
Yuen Long Park
17. Aberdeen Country Park
Glorious rolling hills and valleys
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Aberdeen Country Park covers 423 hectares of stunning uplands and valleys in the southern part of Hong Kong Island. Since 1977, this wild landscape has been attracting hikers with its scenic and color-coded country trails: the Aberdeen Nature Trail, Aberdeen Fitness Trail, and Stages 3 and 4 of the Hong Kong Trail.
The Aberdeen Country Park is the only country park in Hong Kong that has a picnic area specially designed to accommodate the disabled. You’ll also find a children’s playground, designated barbecue areas, and a visitor information center.
Location: Aberdeen Reservoir Road, Aberdeen, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2508 1234
Aberdeen Country Park
18. Lung Fu Shan Country Park
A historical fort within a mini country park
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
The Lung Fu Shan Country Park covers about 47 hectares between the Central and Western districts of Hong Kong, making it one of the city’s smallest country parks. It’s where you can visit the remains of Pinewood Battery, a military fort dating back to 1903.
The park is usually busy on weekends, when locals get to enjoy onsite facilities like picnic sites, barbecue spots, exercise stations, and walkways with lookout points. It’s worth taking a stroll over to Belcher’s Falls which is a great spot to capture some photos in front of a sparkling waterfall.
Location: 92 Pok Fu Lam Rd, Sandy Bay Gap, Hong Kong
Lung Fu Shan Country Park
19. Pok Fu Lam Country Park
A scenic stroll in the foothills of The Peak
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo
Pok Fu Lam Country Park, located in the foothills of The Peak, encompasses Pok Fu Lam Reservoir, one of Hong Kong Island’s oldest water storage facilities. It’s a popular spot for jogging in the early mornings and for bird-watchers looking to catch a glimpse of the beautiful black kite.
A relatively easy trail in Pok Fu Lam Country Park is the Pok Fu Lam Native Tree Walk, which allows you to see a wide range of interesting plants and trees throughout its 1.5-mile-long route.
Location: Pok Fu Lam Reservoir Rd, The Peak, Hong Kong Island
Pok Fu Lam Country Park
20. Shek O Country Park
A climb across a dragon’s back
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Shek O Country Park is a beautiful region that’s popular for a ridgetop trail called Dragon’s Back, which many claim to be the steepest section of the Hong Kong Trail. It takes between 2 and 5 hours to complete the 5-mile-long trail, depending on your fitness level.
There are plenty of barbecue and picnic areas around the park. It’s a highly relaxing and enjoyable place if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Shek O Village on the coast is where you’ll find sandy beaches and local restaurants overlooking Big Wave Bay.
Location: Shek O, Hong Kong Island
Shek O Country Park
21. Tai Tam Country Park
Beautiful reservoirs and coastal scenery
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
The vast expanse of Tai Tam Country Park is home to 4 reservoirs built between 1889 and 1917, and features exquisite coastal scenery. You’ll also find a number of historic sites, including forts that were used in World War II.
It’s well worth a visit, if only to see the picturesque and verdant Tai Tam Valley. You can see the ruins of a bungalow, where James Matheson (the Scottish founder of the still-active merchant company, Jardine Matheson & Co. Ltd.), once lived.
Location: Tai Tam, Hong Kong Island
Phone: +852 2508 1234
Tai Tam Country Park
22. Lam Tsuen Country Park
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Lam Tsuen Country Park lies on the northern end of the New Territories. The 1,520-hectare park has miles of scenic trails that are mostly suited to experienced hikers. There’s a route leading to the summit of Tai To Yan, which stands at 565 meters above sea level.
Other popular sights within Lam Tsuen Country Park include Kadoorie Farm and Pak Ngau Shek Village, both of which are surrounded by natural woodlands and streams.
Location: Lam Tsuen Country Park, New Territories, Hong Kong
Lam Tsuen Country Park
23. Lion Rock Country Park
A landscape overlooked by a mighty lion
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Lion Rock Country Park, located in the New Territories of Hong Kong, is named after a natural formation resembling a lion on a hill ridge. The park covers about 2.5 square miles of mostly forestry plantations and scenic lookout points like Lion Rock, Beacon Hill, and Mong Fu Shek.
The area is home to many native species, such as the black kite and the long-tailed macaque. Lion Rock Country Park offers guided tree walks for those looking to learn about the park’s flora species.
Location: Sha Tin, Hong Kong
Lion Rock Country Park
24. Ma On Shan Country Park
Dramatic landscapes and vast vistas
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Some of Hong Kong’s most dramatic landscapes lie within Ma On Shan Country Park, located on the Sai Kung Peninsula. This 11-square-mile park is close to the Sai Kung Country Park and Lion Rock Country Park in the New Territories of Hong Kong.
Ma On Shan Country Park is where many hikers attempt the popular, but difficult, Ma On Shan Country Trail, which takes about 3 hours to complete. If you don’t fancy a hike, there are plenty of scenic barbecue areas to enjoy instead.
Location: Ma On Shan, Hong Kong
Ma On Shan Country Park
25. Tai Mo Shan Country Park
Home to Hong Kong’s highest peak
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Tai Mo Shan Country Park is home to its namesake peak, Tai Mo Shan, which holds the title of Hong Kong’s highest mountain. Locally known as Big Hat or Big Mist Mountain, it stands just over 3,000 feet above sea level, with several hiking trails leading to the summit.
There’s a rotary park near the entrance of Tai Mo Shan Country Park, where you’ll find cherry blossom trees. Visit in spring to see these gorgeous trees in full bloom, similar to what you’d experience in Japan, Taiwan, or South Korea.
Location: Tai Mo Shan, Hong Kong
Phone: +852 2498 9326
Tai Mo Shan Country Park
26. Lantau North Country Park
Good for: Couples, Families, Photo, Adventure
Lantau North Country Park covers Lantau Island’s Sunset Peak, Yi Tung Shan, Lin Fa Shan, the northern slopes of Lantau Peak, and the region north of Ngong Ping. A popular spot for nature lovers, the country park has a mainly mountainous landscape, with upland valleys, natural woodland and streams.
If you’re up for a challenge, you can attempt to finish the Wong Lung Hang Country Trail, located in the eastern part of Lantau North Country Park. The route is about 2.3 km in length and runs through a dense forest with slippery, moss-covered ground.
Location: Lantau North Country Park, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Lantau North Country Park
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