Cover Ditch the go-to picnic sites for a more peaceful time at these hidden picnic spots (Photo: @hkerpicnic/Instagram)

We’ve rounded up the best hidden picnic spots in Hong Kong for you to enjoy some fun in the sun away from the crowds

Despite its nickname as a “concrete jungle,” Hong Kong actually has plenty of green spaces to relax, unwind, and escape the bustling streets be it hiking trails or country parks. With cooler weather expected to come soon, it’s time to make the most of Hong Kong’s green spaces and the lovely weather with a visit to these picnic spots.

Tamar Park and West Kowloon Promenade may be known as top al fresco choices in the city, but there’s also a caveat––they also tend to be packed with people. So ditch the crowds, pack your picnic basket and head to one of Hong Kong's lesser-known picnic spots for a peaceful day out in the sun.

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1. Jordan Valley Park

Despite its name, Jordan Valley Park is actually located in Kwun Tong. What used to be a landfill site is now a family-friendly recreational park complete with a huge grassy lawn.

This is the largest park in Kwun Tong and home to a radio-controlled model car circuit that’s been internationally recognised for model car racing events. This green landscape also has a bougainvillaea garden, a playground, and a maze for you to enjoy.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Choi Hung Station. From there, take bus 27 or 29M to the park. Alternatively, you can take the MTR to Kwun Tong Station and take bus 23.

Read also: Neighbourhood Guide: What To Eat, Drink and Do in Kwun Tong

2. Sun Yat Sun Memorial Park

Sun Yat Sun Memorial Park is a great alternative to Tamar Park. Located near Sheung Wan Station, this picnic spot offers wonderful harbour views, a promenade for you to enjoy a relaxing stroll, and a view of the incredible skyscrapers.

If you're looking to do something afterwards, the park is sprawling with top-notch facilities including basketball courts, a football pitch, and a swimming pool. There's also something for the kids––a designated children's play area for an added day of fun with the family.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Sheung Wan Station (Exit D) and walk from Shun Tak Centre

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3. Lok Fu Service Rest Garden

Lok Fu Service Reservoir Rest Garden is conveniently connected to Lok Fu Park, making sure that you're really close to nature.

This lesser-known picnic spot is not only peaceful but also boasts beautiful picnic lawns––perfect for spreading out your picnic mat for a lazy afternoon. If you want to get a better view of Hong Kong's cityscape, head over to nearby Checkerboard Hill.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Lok Fu Station and walk for about 10 minutes

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4. Quarry Bay Park

With seaside views to boot, Quarry Bay Park is a great choice for a picnic. The greenery-filled promenade inside the park is also refreshing for the eyes, removing all your stressful vibes. This quiet spot is mostly visited by locals so there's a sense of community there alongside a laid back atmosphere you won't get elsewhere.

Afterwards, you can head off to the Fireboat Alexander Grantham Exhibition Gallery and get to know more about the city's marine history.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tai Koo Station and walk through City Plaza. Alternatively, you can get off at Sai Wan Ho Station (exit A) or from Quarry Bay Station (exit A)

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5. Kai Tak Cruise Terminal

Kai Tak Cruise Terminal has two parks that you can visit. The first is the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Park or the Rooftop Park which is located at the roof of Kai Tak Cruise Terminal Building while the other is the Kai Tak Runway Park sitting adjacent to the cruise terminal. The Rooftop Park spans an area of 2.3 hectares and houses a 270-metre-long waterfront promenade blessing you with wonderful views of Hong Kong Island.

What's impressive is the size of the lawn which is equivalent to 20 basket courts––so you can really spend a day away from the crowds as everyone can enjoy their own space. If you're in need of a companion, bring your pup to the dog-friendly Runway Park.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kowloon Tong and get off at Festival Walk. From there, take bus 22. Alternatively, you can take bus 22M from Kowloon City. You can also take the ferry from Kwun Tong or North Point ferry pier. A green minibus 86 also runs regularly between the terminal and Kowloon Bay MTR Station.

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6. Tai Po Waterfront Park

Occupying an area of 22 hectares, Tai Po Waterfront Park is the largest park managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. With plenty of grassy space available, you can spend the day munching snacks from your picnic basket or frolicking around on the vast outdoor space.

Various activities are also available on site such as bowling greens, a kite-flying area, an insect enclosure, a flower garden, a model boat pool, and a spiral-shaped observation tower.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Tai Po Market Station and walk for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take buses such as 72A, 73, and 73X

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7. Tai Tam Country Park

If you want to enjoy a barbecue while picnicking, head over to Tai Tam Country Park. The parks features an open space filled with a number of well-spaced barbecue pits complete with bench sitting––a great alternative if you don't want to sit on the ground. You can still feel close to nature as the area is surrounded by tall trees and vibrant greenery.

To get more scenic views, the Quarry Bay Jogging Trail is a good option as well as section 1 and 2 of the Wilson Trail for hiking.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Sai Wan Ho Station (exit A). From there, take bus no. 13 to Tai Tam Country Park

Note: Some country parks may be closed due to social distancing measures. Please check the government website for the latest update

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8. Kwun Tong Promenade

For those looking for any another picnic spot with picturesque views of the Hong Kong Harbour, consider Kwun Tong Promenade. Stretching 1,000-metres-long, this promenade also features some colourful art installations such as the Waterfront Tree Walk and the Special Tower Landmark that lights up at night.

The promenade also offers majestic views at night and for a change, why not consider a romantic night picnic with the moon in tow?

How to get there: Take the MTR to Kwun Tong Station or Ngau Tau Kok Station and walk for about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the ferry from North Point or Sai Wan Ho

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9. Inspiration Lake

Just a stone's throw away from Hong Kong Disneyland is Inspiration Lake—a site that should be on anyone's radar. This Lantau park is perfect for a leisurely stroll and picnic alongside the serene waters of Inspiration Lake.

The arboretum is set against the backdrop of mountains, lush greenery, and a gorgeous sun-kissed lake, so you're guaranteed to have a splendid time. If you're keen to explore the area further, there are boat and bike rentals available.

How to get there: Take the MTR to Disneyland Station and walk for about 15 minutes to Inspiration Lake

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10. Tap Mun

Go on a quick getaway to Tap Mun Island and escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Hong Kong. Also known as Grass Island, this secluded paradise has everything you'd want on a perfect picnic day: peaceful, gorgeous green meadows, and majestic coastal views. The island is also home to a close-knit community of about 100 Hakka and Tanka boat people.

Besides picnicking, you can also visit the Hilltop Pavilion for incredible sea views and the 400-year-old Tin Tau Temple. Don't let its location stop you from having a picnic at this haven, as it will definitely satisfy your wanderlust needs.

How to get there: Take the MTR to University Station. From there, take the ferry from Ma Liu Shui Ferry Pier. Alternatively, you can take the MTR to Diamond Hill Station. From there, take bus 96R to Wong Shek Pier. Then, take the ferry to Tap Mun

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This story was originally published on September 11, 2020 and was updated on October 7, 2021.

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