Dragon’s Back

Dragon's Back is the best-known short hike in Hong Kong, and it shows how quickly you can leave the city behind. The trail runs along a rolling ridge above Shek O on Hong Kong Island, named for its resemblance to the back of a dragon. It forms part of Section 8 of the Hong Kong Trail and has been recognised as an award-winning urban trail in Asia.

The official route described by the government's hiking website starts at To Tei Wan on Shek O Road, the entrance to Hong Kong Trail Section 8. The path climbs to the ridge and follows it to the summit of Ta Lan Cheng Ding Shan, with views over Shek O Bay and the islands of the Southern District. A viewpoint along the way looks down on Tai Tam Bay and Tai Tam Harbour. The route then continues towards Tai Tam Gap, past the slopes of Mount Collinson, and finishes at the Collinson Point bus stop on Shek O Road.

The walk is 4.8 kilometres and takes about two and a half hours. It is graded three out of five, so it involves some steady climbing, but it is manageable for most reasonably fit walkers. Shade is limited on the ridge, so bring plenty of water, a hat and sun protection, and avoid the middle of the day in summer. Good shoes help on the uneven sections. Check the weather before setting out and avoid the trail during thunderstorms or typhoon warnings.

Getting there is easy. Citybus route 9 and the public minibus between Shau Kei Wan and Shek O stop at To Tei Wan at the start, and the same services pick up from Collinson Point at the end, so you do not need to retrace your steps. Shau Kei Wan, where the bus and minibus start, is easy to reach from Central.

The hike suits active travellers, families with older children and anyone who wants a few hours of green space and sea views. Weekends are busy, so a weekday morning start is quieter and cooler. Pack snacks, as there are no shops along the ridge itself, and leave enough time to catch a bus back before dark.