Rising dramatically above the Tolo Harbour, Ma On Shan Country Park offers a rugged escape into Hong Kong's New Territories. Named after its horse-saddle-shaped peak (Ma On Shan means 'Horse Saddle Mountain'), this 2,880-hectare park is a paradise for hikers seeking panoramic views, WWII relics, and a taste of Hong Kong's wilder side. The park's network of trails weaves through dense woodlands, past abandoned mining structures, and up to summit viewpoints that stretch across to Sai Kung and the distant islands.
Highlights & What to See
- Ma On Shan Peak (702 m) – The park's namesake summit rewards hikers with sweeping views over Tolo Harbour and the Pat Sin Leng Range. The steep climb via the Ma On Shan Country Trail is challenging but unforgettable.
- Pyramid Hill – A lesser-visited peak offering a quieter alternative with striking rock formations and 360-degree vistas of the surrounding countryside.
- Ngong Ping Plateau – A serene, grassy area perfect for a picnic, with remnants of the area's iron-mining past visible in the form of old tunnels and foundations.
- Ma On Shan Village – A historic Hakka settlement at the park's edge, where traditional village houses and a small Tin Hau temple offer a glimpse into local heritage.
- Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for macaques, wild boar, and a variety of bird species, including the crested goshawk and Chinese bulbul.
Suggested Time to Spend
Dedicate at least half a day to explore Ma On Shan Country Park properly. A morning hike up Ma On Shan Peak (allow 3–4 hours for the full loop from the Ma On Shan Village trailhead) leaves the afternoon free for exploring the plateau and village. For a more relaxed visit, combine the Pyramid Hill walk (2 hours) with a picnic on Ngong Ping Plateau. Full-day hikers can tackle the Wilson Trail Stage 4, which traverses the park from north to south.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Sai Kung Peninsula – Just east, this coastal gem offers seafood restaurants, beaches, and the Sai Kung Country Park with its own hiking trails.
- Tai Po – A market town with the Hong Kong Railway Museum and the serene Tai Po Waterfront Park, accessible via the Tolo Harbour Ferry.
- Plover Cove Country Park – Famous for its reservoir and the challenging Pat Sin Leng hike, this park is a short drive or bus ride away.
- Sha Tin – A bustling New Town with the Sha Tin Racecourse, the 10,000 Buddhas Monastery, and the Hong Kong Heritage Museum.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.