November 22, 2023
I enjoy wandering because exploring new places always brings surprises. I had assumed that I had seen every attraction of Central, the main city of Hong Kong, but every time I ventured out, I found something new. It's just waiting to be highlighted in my travel blogs, the ideal spot for unwinding on the weekends. I've visited this park twice because the first time I saw it was in the late afternoon. I returned to take pictures of other attractions that I hadn't been to yet.
I discovered this place after visiting Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Garden. On my way back to the train station, I discovered a route to Hong Kong Park. Although it's a well-known park, I had never considered adding to my bucket list since I assumed it was just a typical urban park. I never envisioned witnessing a secret gem tucked in between tall buildings, especially because it's in Central and surrounded by skyscrapers. I was really taken aback!
Hong Kong Park is undoubtedly one of the biggest urban parks in Hong Kong. This 8-hectare park was opened more than 30 years ago and is now one of the centers for leisure and cultural activities.
On my way to start my exploration around the park, I found a staircase to the Aviary which houses different kinds of birds. Unfortunately, it was closed to the public but some birds are visible from the outside.
Seeing this trail, it must be great to visit the inside part, which is a great chance to see different birds up close, or feed them if allowed.
From the Aviary, I found my way to the place where Great Pied Hornbills are housed. I only saw a few hornbills; some were probably hiding somewhere inside their cages, but I spotted two lovebirds that seemed to be having a good afternoon chit-chat.
I continued my walk until I reached the stream. It was another beauty to behold! I stayed for a while watching the serene cascading water as it freely descended and crushed against rocks and boulders. The sound of nature is always soothing to my ears and awakens my sleepy soul. Some water lilies are part of the attraction, floating on the side with heart-shaped leaves.
I followed the stream that led me to the white arch bridge, as shown in the first photo above. This part seems to be the habitat of a huge group of reptiles. Numerous cute turtles were sunbathing on rocks while enjoying being adored by people around them. These reptiles reproduce over time, so more and more turtles are added to attractions each year. And if you take a closer look, there are stone frog figures on top of the rocks that accompany the turtles. They, as well, are cute to look at.
After crossing the bridge, waterfalls stood majestically, creating another symphony of nature. I've been to different nature-themed urban parks with artificial lakes and ponds, but I only saw a waterfall in this urban park. I could imagine the real waterfall in the mountains while listening to its cascading water.
Venturing behind the waterfall, I found myself in between rocks inside a cave. I spotted a lady at the corner, silently meditating and connecting with nature. How great it would be to do the same next time! Perhaps bring a yoga mat and do yoga while meditating inside the cave behind the waterfall.
Above the hill from the cave is this beautiful scenery. I felt as if I were in the midst of the forest, surrounded by a tapestry of nature, and not in the city.
I descended from the hill to go to the other side because I opted to walk along the lake. The shimmering green lake water was enchanting and would truly captivate one's gaze. Its clear water captures the surrounding trees.
There are koi fish in the water, which is typical to see in Chinese parks with ponds and lakes. Traditionally, they bring good luck and fortune. I hope it will bring good luck to visitors as well, lol.
Families gather here every weekend to unwind. The surrounding lush trees, enchanting verdant lake water, and soothing cascading sounds of the stream create a perfect harmony that truly comforts one's soul and dissolves stress. You will surely be recharged after your walk.
This part of the lake is sometimes covered with beautiful lotus flowers. On some occasions, like Mid-Autumn and Lantern Festivals, this lake has floating lanterns. Moon and bunny displays are all over the park.
It's recommended to visit one of the great cafes in the area after going for a walk. This cafe with its lovely outdoor setting is one of them. Unfortunately, on the day I went to the park, it appeared that the outdoor dining area was temporarily closed. I chose to walk past since there weren't many seats available inside. Sitting in one of those rattan cage seating should have been fantastic! Next time, I would definitely come by this location.
Another one is beside the pond overlooking the waterfall called Pondside. I was supposed to dine in, but as I checked the customers, they were all Chinese and no Filipinos, so I changed my mind.
Lockcha Teahouse located next to the Teaware Museum is perfect for those looking for great selections of traditional Chinese tea.
For those who want some relaxing ambiance while drinking their cup of tea, there are gardens suitable for them. Several benches along the lake and near the waterfalls are also available for visitors to rest on.
Some historic buildings are also found here, such as the Flagstaff House which is now a Museum of Teaware, and the Cassels Block which is now a Visual Art Center where I found the Museum of Hands. Feel free to tap the links to read my blogs about them.
The Olympic Square has a wide seating capacity, which also serves as a resting place for visitors. Occasionally, activities are held here, like outdoor exhibitions, concerts, and leisure activities. There are probably some sports activities too. Otherwise, they won't name it Olympic Square.
While wandering around, I also found the Tai Chi Garden. This is where old Chinese folks do Tai Chi. That's one of the secrets of a Chinese healthy and longer life. The place also becomes a resting spot for domestic workers and a gathering area for different groups.
This structure located in this garden has head statues of different people, probably the donors of the park.
The Hong Kong Park was beyond my expectations, given that it is an urban park. Facilities and settings are more like a country park located in the countryside. There is, by the way, a playground for kids here too, located near the Visual Art Center. It was truly a wonderful and relaxing afternoon walk with discoveries and, of course, new souvenir photos. I also found a conservation center in this park, located above the hill. Another unexpected place for discovery and connecting with nature. That will be shared next time.
Thanks for stopping by.
(All photos are mine)
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