The best parks for a stroll in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak Garden may be small but it offers extensive western and southern Hong Kong Island views. Perfect for catching a breath of fresh air at altitude, the garden can be reached via Mount Austin Road, which winds through the garden. Previously used as a summer residence for the governor of Hong Kong, the building has since been demolished to make way for this park for the public to enjoy. 

An urban park in the heart of Admiralty, its 'perpetual green' concept provides a verdant open space where visitors can stroll and relax in the heart of the concrete jungle. With its expansive open space that links to the waterfront promenade, park-goers are guaranteed an unobstructed view of the harbour. Tamar Park is meditation and yoga-friendly too, so it's a great spot for all those yogis out there. 

This massive eight-hectare space has just about everything. There is a huge main plaza, a beautiful garden surrounding a tranquil pond, a tree-lined palm path, and several children's playgrounds. The scented garden is also a treat for the lungs, and the park houses more than 400 species of native and exotic plants. Go on a gentle stroll along the breezy Shing Mun River for a romantic evening date or a joyful family day. The park is just a short seven-minute walk from Sha Tin MTR station and bike rental is also available to enjoy the park on wheels.

This Jiangnan garden-style park boasts impressive water features and traditional gardens that are perfect for a breath of fresh air and stunning picture-worthy spaces. Originally used as a garrison fort since the 16th century, the space later transformed into a walled city with a labyrinth of illegally-constructed buildings and dank, dark alleyways and became a place for various kinds of criminal activity. The city was torn down in the late 1980s and reopened as a park to give visitors a chance to appreciate its nature and beauty while contemplating its dark and exciting history.

A wonderfully peaceful garden that is impeccably maintained and designed in true Tang dynasty style. A wander through the rock-lined paths takes you past a spectacular gilded pagoda, water mill and koi pond as you listen to the peaceful trickling of water. Admission is free, deeply refreshing, and provides visual pleasure from every angle. Visit Nan Lian garden by taking exit C2 from Diamond Hill MTR station.

At Tsing Yi Park, you'll notice a touch of Europe. There are pebbled walking trails, palm and prunus gardens, and a lookout pavilion that allows you to explore, breathe and stretch your legs. However, the real jewel of the park is the ornamental lake adorned with a waterfall. Sit by the lake, watch the tortoises swim and listen to the birds hum and sing. The peach blossoms and lotuses are simply too pretty to miss. The park is within walking distance from Tsing Yi MTR station.

As one of the city's continually expanding areas, the West Kowloon Cultural District is a waterfront peninsula offering stunning Victoria Harbour views and the Hong Kong skyline. Its art park is the green heart of it all, perfect for cycling, jogging, or a leisurely walk to watch the sunset (or sunrise, for those inclined). Head here for an afternoon picnic, or if packing a meal is too much hassle, there are a number of pet-friendly eateries nearby so you can get food on-site even if you bring along your furry friends. 

This multi-level park offers what most don't – a seamless mix of sporting facilities and relaxation areas. On the lower level lies a small yet serene Lingnan-style garden with an impressive pond in the centre featuring a waterfall and fountain. Climb the stairs up to flyover level to reach sporting grounds which stretch as far as the eye can see. Here you'll find tennis, basketball and volleyball courts, a skatepark, jogging trails and more. The park is a great place to unwind with a walk or let off some steam with active sports and utilise its extensive facilities. Reach the park from exit B of Mei Foo Station.

One of the region's most well-known parks, this 80,000sq m green space showcases the city's innovative use of urban space. With a traditional tai chi garden, aviary, and beautiful water features, the park has a little bit of something for everyone. Get there from Admiralty Station, exit C1.

As the largest park on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Park epitomises the multi-purpose mindset and economical use of space common to Hong Kong. When not being used for the city's annual celebrations, the park's football fields are also one of the main attractions here. A short walk into the park proper reveals a fish pond, jogging track, roller-skating rink, radio-controlled-boat-racing pond, swimming pool and tennis courts, among many other facilities. The park is located between Causeway Bay and Tin Hau stations.