Hong Kong Hidden Gems (21 spots!)

Kam Tin Country Club

At Kam Tin Country Club, you can immerse yourself in outdoor recreation while enjoying the beauty of nature. From feeding small animals to picking seasonal strawberries and taking photos with colourful flowers, it’s a hidden gem that showcases Hong Kong’s natural beauty. The country club offers various activities suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for a family-friendly destination.

Getting There: Take the MTR to Kam Sheung Road Station, then take the minibus no. 601/601B and get off at Kam Tin Country Club.
Tip: Check their website for seasonal events and strawberry-picking schedules!

Tai O

Located on Lantau Island, Tai O is a historic fishing village known for its iconic old stilt houses, scenic hiking trails, and rich fishing heritage. Despite being a tourist spot, it’s a real village – not curated or manufactured to accommodate tourists, but an authentic experience of local fishing culture dating back centuries.

Getting There: Combine your trip with a visit to Ngong Ping by taking bus 21 from the terminus. Alternatively, take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, and then catch bus no. 11.

Ma Tso Lung Village

Nestled in Sheung Shui, Ma Tso Lung is a peaceful little village where you can truly experience rural Hong Kong. The idyllic atmosphere is simply stunning. Don’t miss the chance to catch the sunset from Tai Shek Mo North Peak within the village; the view of Shenzhen’s skyline is breathtaking!
Tai Shek Mo is a hillock in Lo Wu, located near the Shenzhen border in Hong Kong. It offers sweeping cityscapes of Shenzhen and the surrounding New Territories, with its starting point in Ma Tso Lung Village. The Tai Shek Mo North Peak faces fishing ponds that beautifully reflect the sunset during the golden hour, and it’s quite popular for silvergrass during the fall season.

Getting There: Take the MTR to Sheung Shui Station, take the 51B green minibus, and get off at “Ma Tso Lung Shun Yee San Tsuen.”

Victoria Peak Garden

Just a 10-minute walk from The Peak’s tram station, Victoria Peak Garden feels like a hidden gem atop the bustling city of Hong Kong. Once a summer retreat for the Governor, this charming garden retains its Victorian elegance. You can easily combine a visit to the garden with a trip to The Peak, starting from the tram station or opting for a scenic hike from the bottom. The lush greenery provides a stunning backdrop for capturing beautiful moments, making it a popular choice for photo shoots. The garden is spacious and has picnic benches, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal with friends.

Getting There: A 10-minute hike from the peak tram station, going up Mount Austin Road.

Duck Island (Ap Chau)

Duck Island was named after its shape and form, which somehow resembles a duck sitting on water, with a rock formation resembling a duck’s head, including a unique sea arch as its eye. It is also Hong Kong’s smallest inhabited island, so small that it takes about an hour to walk around along the coast. Once home to around 1,000 residents, mostly fishermen and their families, it now has only three recorded inhabitants. The coastline is filled with red hue ochre breccia, which is rare in Hong Kong. In the picture, I’m standing on the “neck” of the duck, a unique ochre-coloured rock. The island’s charm lies in this natural wonder, offering a fascinating sight and a memorable experience for visitors.

Getting There: Take the MTR to University Station, head to Ma Liu Shui Landing Pier No. 3. Ferries are available only on Weekends and Public Holidays, with one ferry a day at 9 AM.

Crooked Island (Kat O)

Tucked away in the northeastern waters of Hong Kong, Crooked Island (Kat O) offers a refreshing respite, combining rich heritage and natural beauty. Once home to 6,000 residents, including fisherfolk and farmers, the island now has about 50 people, most of whom were born and raised there. Picture narrow lanes lined with remnants of traditional fishermen’s stilt houses, telling tales of the past, lush hiking trails, local delicacies at quaint eateries, and beautiful landscapes! It is a tranquil and scenic island with many heritage and historical sites.

Getting There: Take the MTR to University Station, head to Ma Liu Shui Landing Pier No. 3. Ferries are available only on Weekends and Public Holidays, with one ferry a day at 9 AM. This is the same ferry taking you to Duck Island.

Sai Wan Swimming Shed

Sai Wan Swimming Shed, nestled beneath Mt. Davis, is a well-known spot among local Instagrammers and wedding photographers. During the 1950s, swimming in the sea didn’t require a long trip to distant beaches; Hongkongers could easily visit one of the several swimming sheds along Victoria Harbour for a quick swim after work. While there were once many sheds along the waterfront, this is the only one still standing. You’ll see wooden platforms, small shrines, makeshift showers, and a walkway leading out to the sea. One of the most beautiful sunset spots in Hong Kong, it draws both nostalgic locals seeking refreshing sea dips and a younger crowd eager to capture stunning photos against the backdrop of the city’s hazy skyline.

Getting There: Take the MTR to Kennedy Town and exit at Exit A. From there, you can catch green minibuses No. 58, 58A, or 59. Alternatively, you can take bus 1 and get off at the Caritas Jockey Club stop on Victoria Rd.

Ho Pui Reservoir

Ho Pui Reservoir is a beautiful and family-friendly loop trail nestled in the serene hills of the New Territories. This enchanting spot is known for its emerald waters, lush bamboo groves, and abundant nature, making it a perfect escape for families and nature enthusiasts alike.
As you walk the loop trail, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant greenery and often see butterflies fluttering around, adding to the area’s charm. The tranquil environment provides an ideal setting for a leisurely hike or a picnic with loved ones.

Getting There: Take the MTR to Kam Sheung Road Station, hop onto minibus 71 to Ho Pui from Exit C, and get off at the last stop. Follow Ho Pui Tsuen Road towards the reservoir.

Yuen Long Park

Yuen Long Park is a tranquil oasis adorned with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, making it a true nature gem in Hong Kong that even locals have yet to explore. With serene ponds, an enchanting Butterfly Corner, and a charming waterfall, this park offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Early morning visits provide a particularly peaceful atmosphere, allowing you to appreciate its natural beauty fully.
The park’s highlight is the Aviary Pagoda, perched atop a hill, where you can enjoy a cheerful “hello!” from over 100 resident birds from 29 different species on the lower levels. Ascend to the upper levels for breathtaking panoramic views of the Yuen Long district that you won’t want to miss.

Getting There: Take the MTR to Long Ping MTR Station; it’s a 10-minute walk from Exit B.

Kwong Pan Tin Mural Village

Kwong Pan Tin Mural Village, also known as “The Rainbow Village of Hong Kong,” is a small neighbourhood nestled at the foothills of Tai Mo Shan. It can easily be combined with a hike to Tai Mo Shan, which is the highest peak in Hong Kong.

This neighbourhood was transformed into a canvas by children, volunteers, and passionate villagers. It is now full of colorful and whimsical murals. The unique murals depict the daily life of the villagers, and each corner tells a unique story. It is an absolute delight discovering the murals while walking around the village!

**Please refrain from being too loud during your visit to avoid disturbing the residents – yes, there are people living here! Also, remember to bring your own water; there are no shops nearby.

Getting There: Take bus route 51 at Tsuen Wan station and get off at Kwong Pan Tin Tsuen Section 2 to get there.

Long Valley Nature Park

Nestled in a serene landscape near Sheung Shui, Long Valley Nature Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat.
This new facility, opened in November 2024, beautifully integrates wetland conservation, farming operations, and nature education, offering visitors a unique experience. Keep an eye out for stunning seasonal flowers and a variety of migratory birds! It’s the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the beauty of nature.

Getting There: From Sheung Shui Station or Yuen Long Station, take Bus 76K to Kam Tsin Bus Stop.

Bride’s Pool Nature Trail

Bride’s Pool Nature Trail in Tai Mei Tuk Area of Hong Kong is an easy and beginner-friendly trail shrouded in dense woodland. It boasts a breathtaking waterfall called Bride’s Pool and a two-meter deep plunge pool at its base, making this a lovely swimming spot. The water was so cool and perfect for a dip on a sunny summer day. You will also come across another waterfall called Mirror Pool along the trail. There are multiple barbecue sites above the falls, making it an amazing day out if planned well.

There’s also a spooky legend surrounding this place. Legend has it that Bride’s pool was named after a bride-to-be, who was being carried by porters in a sedan chair to her wedding. On the way, one of the porters slipped and dropped her sedan chair in the water. She tragically drowned with her heavy wedding dress weighing her down. It’s arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in Hong Kong for this reason! Some stories speak of seeing a woman in a red wedding dress brushing her hair by the pool. Are you brave enough to pay a visit?

Getting There: From Tai Po Market Station, Exit A3, take Bus (275R) or Minibus (20R, 20C) to Bride’s Pool Stop.

Hong Kong Grand Canyon

This is Pineapple Hill in Tuen Mun, often dubbed Hong Kong’s mini version of the Grand Canyon! With breathtaking views of the countryside, city skyline, and even Shenzhen in the distance, this is one must-visit trail if I say so myself. Named for its resemblance to a pineapple bun crust, this unique destination features stunning layered rock formations that make the hike worthwhile.

Tip: Don’t miss the opportunity to catch one of Hong Kong’s best sunsets by finishing your trail at Ha Pak Nai. While the “Grand Canyon” aspect may be smaller than expected, the scenic beauty and experience are unforgettable. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers alike!

Getting There: Get off at Tuen Mun or Siu Hong MTR station and catch the Light Rail (505, 507, 615, and 615P) to Leung King Station. The starting point is a short distance away; follow this Google-mapped route.

Sweet Gum Woods

During the winter months, the sweet gum woods in Tai Tong become a stunning spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. The trees transform into a vibrant canvas painted with hues of yellow, orange, and red. This seasonal display contrasts beautifully with the surrounding evergreen trees, offering a breathtaking view for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.

The optimal time to witness this dazzling transformation is usually from mid-December to mid-January, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly to catch the red leaves at their peak!

Getting There:

• Bus: From Long Ping MTR Station, take Bus K66/K66A to Tai Tong Shan Road. The bus operates from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM (to Tai Tong) and from 1:00 PM to 7:00 PM (to Long Ping). Be prepared for a 40-minute uphill walk from the bus stop to the sweet gum woods.
• Red Minibus: This option departs from Hung Min Court near Yuen Long Station, taking you directly to the Tai Tong Shan Road car park and saving you about 1 km of the uphill trek. For a more leisurely approach with less walking, the red minibus is highly recommended.