Hong Kong is commonly known as a glittering skyline, shopping malls that are the world leaders, and a vibrant cultural city, yet the city has a lot to be seen in the back alley of the city streets that teem with life. Though most tourists are drawn to the Victoria Peak or the Star Ferry to see the typical scenic viewpoints, there are very numerous scenic viewpoints in Hong Kong that have not been so much affected by the people. These isolated areas have panoramic views of the city, mountains and sea, and are ideal to tourists who want to enjoy their time in solitude away the common tourist routes. You can be a photography enthusiast, a nature lover or just a person who likes to find the healthy places in the urban world, all these standpoints will change your perception of the beauty of Hong Kong absolutely.
As a UAE resident and Dubai in particular, the first step in planning your trip to Hong Kong would be to make sure that you have your travel documents ready. The application of Hong Kong visa from Dubai is a necessity and therefore will make the journey smooth. After planning your trip, you will be able to enjoy the genuine beauty of Hong Kong beyond the business aspect. The concealed viewpoints that are scattered throughout the land disclose secluded walking paths, exclusive hillsides, and scenic scout points where you are capable of truly savoring the distinct marriage of nature and modernity that the city offers. This paper will take you on a journey of the less-recognized but equally spectacular scenic viewpoints in Hong Kong, including instructions of how to get where, what to anticipate, and why it must be on your list of places to see.
Here are the Hidden Scenic Viewpoints in Hong Kong You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Devil s Peak - History Meets Panorama Beauty.
Located on the Yau Tong side of Kowloon, Devil’s Peak is a rather straightforward hike, which nevertheless provides hikers with a continuous view of the Victoria Harbour, Lei Yue Mun, and even some of Hong Kong Island. The peculiarity of Devil’s Peak is that it is a mixture of natural beauty and historical traces — the territory is filled with the remains of old military fortifications and military bunkers dating back to the time of the colonial period. The path to Devil’s Peak is not long but steep in some places, so it is good to hikers of average physical strength. As soon as you get to the top of it you will be rewarded with a grand view of the harbor, even more spectacular at sunset when the golden light falls on the city skyline. The Devil's Peak is a very quiet scenic location in spite of being accessible and many tourists do not venture into it due to its location thus it is considered one of the quietest scenic reefs in Hong Kong.
2. Jardine, Lookout -A Quick Escape Over the City.
Lookout by Jardine is the other underestimated gem that can provide one of the most beautiful visions of the urban terrain of Hong Kong Island. This is a viewpoint in close proximity to Tai Tam Country Park that can be accessed through a moderate hike in Wong Nai Chung Gap. The ride takes you through a green forest and smooth hills and once on top, an amazing 180 degree sight of Victoria Harbour, Kowloon Peninsula and even central skyscrapers. Local photographers love to have their way in this spot, as they can get the skyline of the city without the human traffic that would be experienced in The Peak. Jardine Lookout at dusk or dawn is a good place to try a photo because it is a soft light with a calm environment, and it is therefore one of the calmest scenic points in Hong Kong to be included in your travel list.
3. Mount High West The best of both worlds.
Mount High West is right behind the popular Victoria Peak with the difference that unlike The Peak, it is rather unrecognized by most tourists. The way to do it is to begin at the trail near the Lugard Road there and then pull up the steep steps to the Mount High West summit. The hard work is more than rewarded: you will have spectacular 360 degree panoramas of Hong Kong Island, Lamma Island, and even the mountains of Lantau in the distance. This place is less congested and gives a closer experience due to its hidden character. It is particularly beautiful in the late afternoon when the lights of the city start shinning. When you are in need of an interesting climb and breathtaking views of the city, then Mount High West ought to be on your list of hidden scenic points in Hong Kong.
4. Red Incense Burner Summit - The Secret Gem of Instagram.
The Red Incense Burner Summit, located above the Braemar Hill, is a cult icon among the local hikers and photographers because of its spectacular views of the Victoria harbour and the skyline of Causeway Bay. It is a short trail with some rocky scrambling, which is why one should have good shoes. After reaching the top you are able to sit on the unique rocks that inhabit the sight of the skyscrapers down below. This is a place that is frequently visited during the golden hour when the low light has a warm effect on the city. Although it has gained popularity on social media, it remains unknown to foreign tourists, which makes it a secret, but a very rewarding scenic viewpoint in Hong Kong that people who want to have a memorable photo spot should visit.
5. Tung Lung Chau -Island Serenity and Sea Views.
To enjoy an island trip without the typical tourist flock, Tung Lung Chau has tough coastal terrain and picturesque ocean bluffs that do not experience a tourist-infested crowd. The island, which is reachable by ferry at Shau Kei Wan, has a few hiking paths that have breathtaking viewpoints. The most breathtaking place is the Tung Lung Fort where you can have a panoramic view of the ocean with crashing waves and cliffy crags. Tung Lung Chau will make you feel adventurous and isolated. Bring a picnic, bring comfortable shoes and spend the day hiking its trails. The natural beauty of the island also transforms it to be one of the most distinct scenic perceptions within Hong Kong that offers a blend of nature, history, and seclusion within the same location.
6. Cape D’Aguilar- Coast Cliffs and Lighthouses.
Cape D, a marine reserve, stands at the southeastern end of the Hong Kong Island which gives incredible scenery of the coast. This location has a rocky coastline, sea caves and the famous Cape D’Aguilar Lighthouse. Its comparatively low grade path makes it a good stroll and the dramatic sea sceneries are spectacular. The Hong Kong University Swire institute of marine science has a skeleton of a whale which is placed in the site, which is an added attraction to your visit. Cape D’Aguilar is ideal to those who seek the primitive and natural beauty of Hong Kong without being surrounded by the hustle of the city. It literally is one of the most distant-catching landscape perspectives in Hong Kong that one can travel without having to exit the primary island.
7. Kowloon Peak (Fei Ngo Shan) - Adventurous Souls.
Kowloon Peak or Fei Ngo Shan is also known as the Suicide Cliff, which is an adrenaline filled ridge trail. The trail is difficult, and only professionals can navigate through it, but it is worth the incredible reward. On the top, you are served with panoramic views of Kowloon, Victoria Harbour and the New Territories that reach in all directions. During colder months the peak is frequently obscured in fog and this makes it look mysterious. It is also popular among thrill-seekers and landscape photographers that are interested in another angle of the city. In case you are sure about your hiking power, then the Kowloon Peak is a memorable and thrilling scenic outlook in Hong Kong.
8. Pineapple Mountain- the mini grand canyon of Hong Kong.
Pineapple Mountain (Por Lo Shan) is situated in Tuen Mun and has become one of the most popular sites to the locals due to a desert-like terrain, which is similar to Grand Canyon. The path is not very difficult and can be accomplished in couple of hours. The other-worldly sense in the eroded sandstones formations brings an atmosphere that is even surreal and distant to the skyscrapers and the city life. It is best seen at sunset when it is low and the colors of the rocks are brought out. This is a well kept secret and placed where one would least expect to find it is a great outdoor adventure with no doubt one of the unique scenic outlooks in Hong Kong.
9. Sharp Peak -A reward of the diligent Hiker.
Sharp Peak is a mountain in Sai Kung East Country Park, and is mostly believed to be one of the toughest hikes in Hong Kong, however, it is also the most scenic one. On its steep pyramidal top, the peak offers a spectacular view of Tai Long Wan, which is one of the most beautiful beach strips in Hong Kong, and the green hills that surround it. The path is steep, rocky, and one needs a good fitness level to climb the mountain but once there, it is a worthwhile adventure. This mountain being remote translates to less crowds thereby allowing you to experience the undisturbed natural beauty in its purest state. Sharp Peak is one of the must-be in case of advanced hikers who want to find the very scenic point in Hong Kong.
10. Tai Mo Shan -The top mountain in Hong Kong.
Tai Mo Shan, a 957-meter mountain is the tallest mountain in Hong Kong and gives one a spectacular view of the whole area. The climb is not excessive, and the paths are well paved to the summit, although the distance is quite long. On clear days, you are able to see as far as the Shenzhen skyline in Mainland China. The peak of Tai Mo Shan is frequently shrouded in clouds and it looks like a dream. Cooler climate is also a characteristic of the area and makes it a nice getaway in the summer seasons. It is the highest point that anyone who has the desire to conquer the highest and the widest scenic view in Hong Kong.
Visiting these Viewpoints Travel Advice.
-
Go Early: There are many of these places that are best experienced in the morning at dawn or evening at sunset. An early start will guarantee a lack of crowds and lower temperatures.
-
Carry the right Gear: Hiking shoes, water and sun protection are needed in the majority of such trails.
-
Check the Weather: Certain trails may be unsafe in down-pour or high-wind. Check the forecasts before leaving.
-
Plan Your Route: There is some limited transportation on some trails. Preplan your way back and have a map or GPS handheld device.
-
Be Kind to Nature: Bring your rubbish up and keep to the established routes, do not destroy plants or animals.
-
In case of traveling between Dubai and Hong Kong, it is important that you procure Hong Kong visa in Dubai beforehand to prevent last minute rush. You will be able to see these spectacular places at your own free time, and without fear with a valid visa.
Conclusion:
By visiting these untouristy scenic angles in Hong Kong you are able to view an aspect of the city that few tourists ever have the chance to see. The silent hills of Jardine Lookout to the rocky cliffs of the Cape D’Aguilar, all these places provide different views of the natural beauty and urban beauty of Hong Kong. They are ideal moving getaways of the hectic streets to think, take photographs or just enjoy the marvels of nature. Leaving the tourist track not only pays off with breathtaking scenery but also a better understanding of the city along with its landscape as well as its soul.
When travelling out of the UAE, the first thing you should get in place is your apply for Hong Kong visa from Dubai. After securing your traveling documents, you can leave your traveling arrangements to the more experienced travel agencies such as Go Kite Travel who are capable of advising you on the best itinerary to follow so that you do not miss in the hidden gems that are so interesting in the city. Their knowledge in the area will help you to create a unique experience by blending well-known places with these hidden perspectives. Always remember to venture off the beaten tourist path and experience the authentic Hong Kong - a place that boasts of skyscrapping mountains, beaches and panoramic hidden retreats. To experience a hassle-free travelling experience, leave the travelling to Go Kite Travel and they will take you to the secret heights of Hong Kong and memorable sights it holds.
You must be logged in to post a comment.