Shek O Peak
For most Filipinos, Hong Kong is about shopping, Disneyland, and food. Hiking? Not exactly on the list. After all, with so many scenic trails in the Philippines, why travel just to go on a trek?
What many don’t realize is that roughly 75% of Hong Kong is countryside, hiding some of Asia’s most breathtaking yet accessible trails. You don’t need to be a seasoned hiker to explore them; just a comfortable pair of sneakers, a bit of curiosity, and an eye for scenic views (or at least the promise of a good meal after).
Even those who swear by their handheld fans and cooling powders find themselves loving Hong Kong’s outdoors. The best part? You get the best of both worlds: scenic hikes by day and cozy hotel stays by night. No compromises needed.
Hiking With Unexpected Company
For some, the word hiking triggers flashbacks of steep inclines, muddy shoes, and existential crises halfway through. But Hong Kong’s trails are different. Most are surprisingly doable and rewarding, with minimal risk of embarrassing yourself (especially if it’s your first time).
Take Sai Kung, for example. The route to its scenic beaches offers a gentle introduction to nature without making you feel like you’ve accidentally signed up for a survival reality show. You might grab onto a questionable looking branch for support at some point but beyond that, the view on top makes you forget that you are just less than an hour away from the bustling city. It’s a beautiful reminder that Hong Kong, amidst the hustle and the bustle, has places where time seems to stand still.
Along the way, you’ll meet a group of unexpected locals: buffalo and cows who roam freely. These four-legged residents are said to be descendants of the former farm animals, now living rent-free while lounging in the sun and occasionally photobombing hikers like it’s their full time job.
Where the Trees are the Tour Guides
Not a fan of cardio? No problem. Hong Kong’s Great Outdoors isn’t just about endurance but also about slowing down.
At Tam O Shan, the trees do more than provide shade. You can try forest bathing, a Japanese mindfulness practice that’s less about racing to the peak and more about connecting with nature. An actual forest therapy guide leads you through simple sensory exercises like noticing the scent of trees or listening to the rustling leaves.
One of the more unusual exercises involves “befriending” a tree. Imagine walking into a party where you know no one and choosing which tree appears the most approachable. It sounds strange, but even most skeptics leave surprisingly at peace. Some believe that trees absorb energy, and hugging one can help reduce stress, making you feel safe and supported – much like the comfort of a warm hug.
For a truly slow experience, try walking uphill backwards. The deliberate pace forces you to stay in the moment, letting go of control over what’s ahead (literally and metaphorically). Plus, it’s a great way to confuse fellow hikers.
The Best Post-Hike Reset
A good hike deserves an even better cool down, and Hong Kong delivers.
Nan Lian Garden provides a Zen retreat in the heart of the city. Inspired by the Tang Dynasty, every element is designed to calm the overstimulated mind: rocks symbolize an unmoved heart, water represents giving without expecting anything in return. Trees, vitality and wooden buildings, warmth. The contrast is striking: one moment, you’re surrounded by lush greenery; the next, you’re staring at Hong Kong’s iconic skyline. A reminder that peace and chaos can exist side by side.
For those who struggle to relax, Red Doors Studio offers sound healing using deep gong vibrations. Under a weighted blanket in a dimly lit room, you’ll drift into theta – a state between sleep and consciousness. It’s the kind of rest that sneaks up on you. One minute, you’re skeptical, the next, you’re so relaxed you forget where you are.
Some say this practice also helps with physical recovery. Even Martha Collard, a renowned gong master, discovered this firsthand when a session helped dissolve her kidney stones. Now, her sound baths are a go-to for deep restoration whether in an intimate studio or at large festivals like Clockenflap. Others are so relaxed they start snoring, proof that rest doesn’t always come from silence but from sound.
Why More Filipinos Are Adding Hiking to Their Hong Kong Itinerary
For many Filipinos, Hong Kong is a comfort zone – familiar and fast-paced. But with more millennials and Gen Zs embracing hiking and wellness travel as a post-pandemic escape, a different side of the city is starting to gain traction.
What makes it worth adding to the itinerary? Beginner-friendly trails that don’t require fancy gear or extreme endurance. Not to mention most of the trails are accessible via public transportation. And if you’re worried about the heat, here’s the trick: from January to April, the weather is cooler which is ideal for long, comfortable walks.
While hiking in Hong Kong isn’t on every Filipino traveler’s radar yet, it’s a natural fit for those already hitting the trails back home. It may not involve carrying shopping bags or rushing through theme park lines, but the reward? A sense of accomplishment, unexpected encounters with nature, and a perfect excuse to indulge in more dim sum after. More travelers are giving it a go and maybe it’s time you do, too. To get started, visit Discover Hong Kong.
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