Forget the likes of the Morning Trail and tackle some of the city’s more exciting and lesser trekked hikes.
DESCRIPTION
This is an easy walk for Friday afternoons in eastern Kowloon. It’s short, but there are several sections of steps totalling about 350m of climbing (equivalent to about 120 floors of a building). The route starts out on a concrete path through villages and continues on a quiet road for a couple of kilometres. Once you pass through Ma Yau Tong start to climb the dirt trail through the woods, where you’ll come across the strange sculptures of Mr Lee Chun-bor (sadly now neglected). Continue up to reach the summit of Black Hill (Ng Kwai Shan, 304m) where, if it’s a clear day, you’ll have spectacular views. The path descends to cross a road and then climbs back up towards Devil’s Peak (Pau Toi Shan, 222m). Nearing the summit, take a small diversion to inspect the remains of the gun battery which was designed to defend the eastern approaches to the inner harbour. Finish by descending to the village of Lei Yue Mun, with the ubiquitous Tin Hau Temple, and its seafood restaurants. From here, Yau Tong MTR is a few minutes’ walk away, as is the ferry pier for the more scenic ride to Hong Kong Island.
USEFUL INFO
This route is almost entirely on paved paths. There is an optional steep climb about 200m on well-formed steps (about 1,000 of them) so be sure to wear suitable footwear. This hike is very suitable for beginners who have a reasonable level of fitness. Please bring plenty of water or sports drink (one litre at least), and bring a hat and sunblock – almost all this route is without shade.
TIME OUT RATING
Speed: 2 (hiking speed but with regular breaks)
Length: 2 (about 7km)
Gradient (ascent): 2 (about 350m)
Surface: 1.5
Overall: 1.9
GETTING THERE
Take the MTR to Choi Hung station and head to Exit C2. At the nearby bus stop catch either the 91, 91M or 92 bus and alight at Tseng Lan Shue.