Lion Rock, Hong Kong - man in brown jacket sitting on rock during daytime
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Lion Rock Hong Kong

4.6
·478 reviews·, Hong Kong

An iconic Hong Kong hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour from a unique rock formation.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Cooler temps, clear skies

CrowdMedium
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Lion Rock, Hong Kong - man in brown jacket sitting on rock during daytime

Lion Rock Hong Kong

Best Time

Autumn mornings

Cooler temps, clear skies

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic Hong Kong hike offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour from a unique rock formation.

4.6
(478 reviews)

"The views from Lion Rock are absolutely spectacular, a must-do for any visitor to Hong Kong!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good hiking shoes; the trail has stairs and steep parts. Avoid during summer's fatal heat.

💧 Hydration is Key

Bring ample water, especially if hiking in warmer weather. Stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lion Rock Summit

Lion Rock Summit

Summit

Iconic rock formation offering breathtaking panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline and Victoria Harbour.

Panoramic Cityscape

Panoramic Cityscape

Various viewpoints along the trail

Capture stunning vistas of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, especially vibrant during sunrise or sunset.

The Lion's Mane

The Lion's Mane

The rock formation itself

Marvel at the unique geological formation that gives the mountain its name and distinctive appearance.

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Avoid the sweltering summer heat and humidity; spring and autumn offer the most pleasant hiking conditions. Weekends can get crowded, so consider a weekday visit for a more serene experience.

Trail Smarts

Lion Rock is a moderately strenuous hike with steep sections and stairs. While manageable for those with decent fitness, beginners should be prepared. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months.

Best Times

When
Autumn mornings
Why
Cooler temps, clear skies
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Dragon's Back, Lion Rock, or Kowloon Peak Hike

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good hiking shoes; the trail has stairs and steep parts. Avoid during summer's fatal heat. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Bring ample water, especially if hiking in warmer weather. Stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke. Reddit

reddit.com

Not the first time posting here but this is the first time posting after summiting a real mountain: Lion’s Rock, Hong Kong, arguably the most iconic mountain in the whole city

reddit.com

Hiking Suicide Cliffs and Lions Head Rock

🐒 Monkey Alert!

If you see monkeys, don't take out food; they can be aggressive. Reddit

🚕 Taxi to Lion Pavilion

Consider a taxi to Lion Pavilion on Sha Tin Pass Road to save a long uphill walk. Reddit

reddit.com

Lions Rock Hike

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Sturdy Footwear Essential

Wear good hiking shoes; the trail has stairs and steep parts. Avoid during summer's fatal heat. Reddit

💧 Hydration is Key

Bring ample water, especially if hiking in warmer weather. Stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke. Reddit

🐒 Monkey Alert!

If you see monkeys, don't take out food; they can be aggressive. Reddit

🚕 Taxi to Lion Pavilion

Consider a taxi to Lion Pavilion on Sha Tin Pass Road to save a long uphill walk. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Beginner Friendly (with fitness)

Moderately strenuous with stairs. Good for those with decent fitness, but not for absolute novices. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(478 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the absolutely stunning panoramic views from Lion Rock, calling it an iconic Hong Kong experience. The challenging yet rewarding hike is a major draw, offering a sense of accomplishment. However, some find the steepness and stairs demanding, and the summer heat can be a significant deterrent.

"Beautiful panorama vista from an iconic peak in Hong Kong. On a clear day, you'll be able to see all sides of Hong Kong, from top to bottom, and it's a worthy trip too see the greenery as well as the concrete jungle!"

Benson Cheung

"What a magnificent hike! Quite strenuous, lots of stairs before you reach the top which takes just over an hour. The reward is absolutely great with the view over the city. Bring lots of water though, on our hike it was 32 degrees celsius and we were soaking wet. 1,5 liter per person is highly recommended!"

Eric van der Wolk

"Tough climb to the peak - the road from the MTR station can be steep. But the trail is even steeper. You must be reasonably fit to climb to the summit.

But the views are worth the climb. The trail is well marked. There is only one set of public toilets on the way up.

On a clear day, the summit will present many vantage points for a good selfie or wefie!"

Ron Yang

What People Like

Breathtaking city views
Iconic landmark
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Steep and strenuous
Summer heat
Crowded weekends

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can take the MTR to Wong Tai Sin Station and then walk uphill to the trailhead, which is a significant climb. Alternatively, taxis can take you closer, potentially to the Lion Pavilion on Sha Tin Pass Road, though not all drivers may agree to go there. Reddit

While MTR stations are nearby, the direct approach to the trailhead involves a substantial uphill walk. Taxis offer a more direct route to points like the Lion Pavilion, saving considerable effort. Reddit

Many hikers recommend taking a taxi to the Lion Pavilion on Sha Tin Pass Road to bypass a large portion of the initial uphill trek. Reddit

Ride-sharing apps can be an option, similar to taxis, to reach the vicinity of the trailhead or the Lion Pavilion. Confirm the drop-off point with your driver. Reddit

From Wong Tai Sin MTR, you'll need to navigate to the trailhead, which involves a considerable uphill walk. It's advisable to use a map or ask locals for directions to the start of the trail. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Lion Rock is a public country park and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. You can access the trails freely. Reddit

Lion Rock is accessible 24/7 as it's part of the country park system. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety. Reddit

Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular views, but be prepared for steeper sections in low light. Weekday mornings are ideal to avoid crowds. Reddit

Yes, you can hike alone if you have a reasonable level of fitness. Be sure to inform someone of your plans and carry a fully charged phone. Reddit

There are no booking requirements to hike Lion Rock. It's an open public space for everyone to enjoy. Reddit

🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience

Lion Rock is considered moderately strenuous. It features many stairs and steep sections, making it suitable for those with a decent level of fitness, but potentially challenging for absolute beginners. Reddit

The hike to the summit and back can take approximately 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views. Reddit

Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes with good grip. The trail can be uneven and steep. Reddit

Restroom facilities are generally limited on the trails themselves. It's best to use facilities at the start of your hike or near MTR stations before you begin. Reddit

The summit offers the most iconic panoramic views. Various points along the trail also provide excellent vantage points for capturing the Hong Kong skyline. Reddit

🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly on the Lion Rock trail. You'll find a variety of local eateries and restaurants in the nearby districts of Wong Tai Sin or Kowloon Tong after your hike. Reddit

Yes, it's highly recommended to bring your own snacks and plenty of water. There are no vendors on the trail. Reddit

The surrounding areas offer a wide range of Hong Kong cuisine, from local cha chaan tengs (tea restaurants) to more upscale dining options. Reddit

Street food in Hong Kong is generally safe and popular. However, always choose vendors that appear clean and have high turnover. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas on the main trail, you can find spots to rest and enjoy your packed food. Be sure to pack out all your trash. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for capturing the city skyline and the rock formation. Midday can be harsh. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light shots. Reddit

The classic shot is from the summit looking out over Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Getting closer to the 'lion's mane' rock formation also yields unique perspectives. Reddit

Drone usage in Hong Kong country parks is generally restricted. It's best to check the latest regulations from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department before flying. Reddit

Clear, smog-free days provide the best visibility for stunning cityscapes. After rain, the air is often clearer, offering crisp views. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lion Rock can be a rewarding hike for families with children who have a decent level of fitness. The trail is well-defined, but the numerous stairs and steep sections mean it's more suited for older children or those accustomed to physical activity. Pack plenty of snacks and water, as there are no facilities on the trail. Consider starting early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and potential crowds. Reddit

For families seeking a less strenuous option, exploring the base of the mountain or nearby parks might be more appropriate. If you do attempt Lion Rock, ensure children wear appropriate footwear and are supervised closely, especially near the steeper edges. The incredible views from the top can be a fantastic motivator for younger hikers once they reach the summit.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Lion Rock is an excellent choice for budget travelers as it's free to access. The primary costs will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or water you purchase. Taking the MTR and then walking or using a local bus is the most economical way to get there, though it involves more walking. Reddit

Bringing your own packed lunch and water is highly recommended to save money. You can find affordable local eateries in the districts surrounding Lion Rock for a post-hike meal. The experience itself, with its stunning views and sense of accomplishment, offers immense value without a hefty price tag.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Lion Rock is a photographer's dream, especially for landscape and cityscape enthusiasts. The iconic panoramic views of Hong Kong are best captured during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. A wide-angle lens is essential for encompassing the vast urban sprawl and natural landscape. Reddit

Consider bringing a tripod for low-light photography at dawn or dusk, and be prepared for varying weather conditions. The unique rock formation itself offers interesting photographic opportunities. Remember to check local drone regulations if you plan to use one, as they are often restricted in country parks. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Trails

The hike up Lion Rock is a rewarding experience, but it's important to be prepared. The trail is well-defined but can be steep, featuring numerous stairs that test your stamina. Many hikers recommend wearing sturdy hiking shoes with good grip to navigate the uneven terrain safely. Bringing a hiking pole can also be beneficial for stability on the steeper sections. Remember that while the hike is manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness, it's not typically considered a beginner-friendly trail due to its inclines. Reddit

For those looking to shorten the ascent, taking a taxi to the Lion Pavilion on Sha Tin Pass Road is a popular strategy. This bypasses a significant portion of the initial uphill climb, allowing you to focus on the more scenic parts of the trail. However, be aware that not all taxi drivers may be willing to go to this specific location, so it might require some luck or persistence. Reddit

Safety is paramount, especially during Hong Kong's hot and humid summer months. Travelers have warned that hiking during this period can be 'fatal' due to the extreme heat. It's crucial to carry plenty of water and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. Informing someone of your hiking plans and carrying a fully charged mobile phone are essential precautions, particularly if you are hiking alone.

The Iconic Lion Rock Experience

Lion Rock, or 'Siu Shan' in Cantonese, is more than just a hiking spot; it's a symbol of Hong Kong's indomitable spirit and resilience. Its distinctive shape, resembling a crouching lion, has made it an iconic landmark visible from many parts of Kowloon. The panoramic views from the summit are truly breathtaking, offering an unparalleled perspective of the bustling city below, including the iconic Hong Kong Island skyline and Victoria Harbour. Reddit

Many visitors describe the summit view as a 'wow' moment, perfect for capturing stunning photographs. The best times for photography are typically during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the city lights begin to twinkle or the morning sun casts a warm glow. However, be prepared for potentially cooler temperatures and lower light conditions during these times. The unique geological formation of the rock itself is also a point of interest, with many visitors eager to get up close to the 'lion's mane' for memorable shots. Reddit

While the hike offers incredible rewards, it's important to be mindful of the local wildlife. Hikers have reported encountering monkeys along the trail, particularly higher up. It's strongly advised not to take out any food when monkeys are present, as they can become aggressive. Maintaining a safe distance and not feeding them is crucial for both your safety and the animals' well-being. Reddit

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