Ma On Shan Country Park

Ma On Shan Country Park, sprawling across the rugged hills of Hong Kong's New Territories, offers a wild escape from the city's neon glare. Named for its horseshoe-shaped peak (Ma On Shan means 'Horse Saddle Mountain'), this park is a playground for hikers, history buffs, and nature lovers. Trails wind through subtropical forests, past abandoned mining relics, and up to panoramic views of Tolo Harbour and the Sai Kung Peninsula. It's a place where the urban jungle gives way to birdsong and the scent of wild orchids.

Highlights & What to See

• Ma On Shan Summit: A challenging but rewarding hike to the 702-metre peak, offering sweeping views of the New Territories and outlying islands. The trail passes old mining tunnels and iron-ore processing sites – a nod to the area's industrial past.
• Ngong Ping Plateau: A serene, grassy plateau with a sacred Buddhist statue and a small temple. It's a perfect picnic spot with views of the Soko Islands and the South China Sea.
• Ma On Shan Country Trail: A family-friendly walk that meanders through shady woodland, past streams and waterfalls. Keep an eye out for macaques, wild boar, and colourful bird species like the crested serpent eagle.
• Pyramid Hill: A lesser-known peak with a distinctive shape, accessible via a less-crowded ridge trail. The summit offers a different perspective of the park's dramatic landscape.
• Kam Shan Country Park (Monkey Hill): A neighbouring park famous for its troops of wild macaques. It's an easy add-on for those wanting to see Hong Kong's cheeky primates up close.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day to Ma On Shan Country Park, ideally a full day if you plan to summit Ma On Shan and explore the plateau. Start early (by 8am) to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The main hike to the summit takes 3–4 hours round trip, plus extra time for exploring the plateau and mining relics. If you're short on time, the Ma On Shan Country Trail is a 2-hour loop that still delivers a taste of the park's beauty.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Sai Kung Town: A laid-back fishing village with seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and access to the Sai Kung Peninsula's beautiful beaches and islands.
• Tai Po: A market town on the shores of Tolo Harbour, known for its waterfront promenade, dragon boat races, and the Hong Kong Railway Museum.
• Plover Cove Country Park: A vast park featuring the stunning Plover Cove Reservoir, the Wilson Trail, and the remote village of Lai Chi Wo with its Hakka culture.
• Sha Tin: A bustling district with the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, the Sha Tin Racecourse, and the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery.
• Clear Water Bay Country Park: A coastal park with dramatic cliffs, quiet coves, and the scenic Clear Water Bay Second Beach – perfect for a post-hike swim.

Please check official sources for current details.