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Uniquely HK

Feature Story

Urban Oasis

Take a break from the city’s high-rises - you'll always find something greener just around the corner.
 
Imagine yourself relaxing among giant green bushes, enjoying the natural scent of flowers and plants, and hearing birdsong melodies… Known as a neon-lit metropolis of high-rises and frantic lives, Hong Kong probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind with such a description. Nevertheless, although land is as valuable as gold here, the city still possesses delightful oases dotted among the concrete. We have highlighted the best ones here.
 
 
Best escapes from the bustles
 
Hong Kong Park
 
    
 
19 Cotton Tree Drive, Central
The well-known oasis in the middle of Central houses the most comprehensive aviary and conservatory collections in the city. Whether you have a tight working or shopping schedule nearby, take a short break to appreciate the sounds of nature – it surely will help ease your stresses.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Admiralty Station Exit C1
 
 
Kowloon Park
 
 
Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Kowloon Park in the tourist district of Tsim Sha Tsui offers a sense of peace and tranquility. Fronting Nathan Road and overlooking the humming shopping and commercial offices, this park with its famous flamingo pond truly is a respite from the hustle and bustle. Don’t miss the ongoing tai chi and chess actions.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Tsim Sha Tsui Station Exit A1
 
 
Victoria Park
 
 
1 Hing Fat Street, Causeway Bay
The largest park on Hong Kong Island provides an urban green lung for people to enjoy nature. Its convenient location – just a block away from major shopping malls and corporate offices in Causeway Bay – makes it the most appropriate place to hold large outdoor events such as the Lunar New Year Fair and Hong Kong Flower Show.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Tin Hau Station Exit A2
 
 
 
Outdoor workout haven
 
Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park
 
 
Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong Island
Located at the waterfront down from Macau Ferry Terminal and also near the vent shaft of Western Harbour Tunnel, this park provides an excellent 
harbour view and refreshing sea breezes - it’s ideal for families during sunny weekends at the memorial lawn. The park is also a favourite spot for outdoor activities: jogging, yoga, kickboxing, tai chi, and traditional Chinese dancing, among others.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Sheung Wan Station Exit D. Cross the footbridge to the Macau Ferry Terminal and head west along the waterfront.
 
 
 
Top family bonding spot
 
Jordan Valley Park
 
   
 
71 New Clear Water Bay Road, Kwun Tong
The transformation at the former landfill site is stunningly amazing – the vast green lawn at Jordan Valley Park is a friendly haven. The three outdoor gardens and two central lawns are perfect for family picnics. The two radio-controlled model car circuits are also great for more family interaction.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Choi Hung Station Exit A; Bus 29M to Shun Lee Disciplined Service Quarters and walk for 5 minutes to the park.
 
 
 
Rooftop Garden
 
Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Park
 
 
33 Shing Fung Road, Kai Tak, Kowloon
The largest rooftop garden in Hong Kong is waiting to be discovered as another excellent outdoor spot for families – two huge lawns, an open waterplay area plus the stunning views of the famous skyline, all next to one of the largest and most modern cruise terminals in the world.
HOW TO GET THERE: Bus 5R from Kwun Tong MTR station to Kai Tak Cruise Terminal
 
 
 
Classical Chinese Elegance
 
Nan Lian Garden
 
 
60 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Kowloon
For sheer beauty and tranquility, the Tang Dynasty-style Nan Lian Garden beats them all. The scenic garden is meticulously designed to provide serenity and peace away from the high-rise apartments in Diamond Hill. Stop for last minute shopping at the souvenir shop, or take a tea break and a light vegetarian meal at Chi Lin Vegetarian Restaurant.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Diamond Hill Station Exit C2
 
 
Lai Chi Kok Park
 
 
1 Lai Wan Road, Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon
Built in classical Chinese Lingnan-style, Lai Chi Kok Park offers fresh air and massive greens surrounded by housing complexes and a major expressway. Take a quiet stroll along the paths and catch some of the friendly neighborhood’s chess actions that can last for hours.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Mei Foo Station Exit D
 
 
 
Bike rides with a view
 
West Kowloon Waterfront Promenade
 
 
Austin Road West, Kowloon
A 10-minute walk from Kowloon MTR Station is a quiet haven from the busy districts. This public open space at the southern tip of West Kowloon not only offers another spectacular harbour view (don’t miss the sunset there!), but is also perfect for biking. Smart Bikes are available for rental until 6pm.
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Kowloon Station Exit D to Nga Cheung Road, followed by a 10-minute walk to the entrance.
 
 
Po Kong Village Road Park
 
 
140 Po Kong Village Road, Diamond Hill
The park has some of the best cycling facilities in Hong Kong: an approximately one-kilometre elevated cycling track, a cycling area for
children and beginners, and a skate park for adventure-seekers (with safety guidelines). There is a bike rental nearby if you are eager to test your biking skills. 
HOW TO GET THERE: MTR Diamond Hill Station and take Minibus 19M to the park.
 
 
 
 
 
 

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