Dragon's Back Hike
The Dragon's Back hiking trail - part of the 50km Hong Kong hiking trail - is one of Walk Hong Kong's most popular hikes.
Our guided tour starts on the iconic and much loved Hong Kong tram, which commenced operations in 1904. We watch the commuters heading to work, as we rattle along what was once the waterfront of Hong Kong Island and then complete our journey on the MTR (Mass Transit Railway). Walking through Shau Kei Wan wet market, we take in the atmosphere of the daily life of ordinary Hong Kong residents.
We commence our hike along a lovely cool path that takes us through shady groves of bamboo and lush woodland, accompanied as we walk by birdsong. We then emerge into open hillsides often covered with wild azaleas or rose myrtle.
Our walk follows the rugged undulating spinal ridge of the Dragon´s Back, where the earth is regarded as a living being, with lines of force known as 'dragon veins'. The breathtaking views take in dazzling seas, the distant Nine Pins Islands, sandy Big Wave Bay, Tai Tam Harbour, Stanley and the Red Hill peninsula.
We finish the hike by strolling down through shaded tunnels of exotic vegetation, then take transport back to the Central district in Hong Kong. Alternatively, you may continue on to the nearby fishing village of Shek O, with its popular seafood restaurants and beach.
The Dragon's Back was hailed by Time Magazine as Asia's best urban hike: "This is the city´s finest and most surprising ramble... The glory of it all is that you're so close to the city, but could hardly feel further away."
Departure Point: outside the General Post Office (beside the green stamp-vending machines), 2 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong Island
Departure Time: 8:30am
Duration: 4hours
Walking Distance: 5km
Grade: Moderate