Staying fit in Hong Kong will definitely not be a problem (that is if you manage to get a break from the city's notoriously hectic working schedules). Hong Kong has a well-developed infrastructure, including stadiums, gyms, tracks, trails, etc. All you need is to set aside a few hours of free time and check out the best places to indulge in your favorite sport.
Outdoor and indoor sports in Hong Kong
Despite being a very densely populated city, Hong Kong is a famous destination for outdoor sports, especially hiking.
Hiking in Hong Kong
Boasting some truly breathtaking spots, the city has several hiking trails, some quite close to the city center, others further away in the New Territories. Just a few kilometers away from the city center, you can discover the Dragon's Back, desert beaches, volcano landscapes, as well as isolated temples. In Kowloon itself, you will be amazed by the magnificent panorama surrounding Sha Tin Lake. All of these areas are perfect for a hiking adventure. However, if you want to commit to a long-distance hike, try one of Hong Kong's famous trails:
- 100km MacLehose trail, stretching from East to West in the New Territories;
- 943-metre climb up Lantau Peak (the second-highest peak in Hong Kong);
- 78km Wilson Trail running through Hong Kong's country parks;
- or go for the ultimate classic – the 50km Hong Kong trail from Victoria Peak to Big Wave Bay
For information on guided hikes, visits to the geological park and cycling in the New Territories, please refer to the Hong Kong Tourism portal.
Cycling in Hong Kong
You are likely to come across many cycling trails across Hong Kong, especially in the New Territories. You can also rent a bike if you do not wish to buy one. In fact, cycling is one of the inhabitants' favorite pastimes. For instance, the first cycling trail stretches from the Shing Mun river to the Tai Po Waterfront Park. The most popular trail goes from there to Tai Mei Tuk.
Nevertheless, you are advised to stick to the cycling itinerary rather than venture elsewhere on your own, as Hong Kong is a dense traffic region.
You are likely to come across large numbers of vehicles and pedestrians, which will definitely affect your comfort level during the ride. Cycling tracks, for their part, are safe and secure and will allow you to enjoy your trip.
Fishing in Hong Kong
If you like fishing, you will be amazed by the number of artificial lakes and craft boats you can find in Hong Kong. If you want the ultimate fishing experience, visiting Hong Kong's old fishing village – Taï O Village – on Lantau Island is a must. Here you will not only find great fishing spots but will also be able to immerse yourself in a rustic, small-town atmosphere, see the famous stilt houses and interact with the local fishermen.
Hong Kong beaches
Hong Kong is surrounded by many beaches and is a popular beach getaway for visitors from mainland China. You can find beaches close to the city, but, as is so often the case, the further away you venture out, the better spots you will find. Some of the best beaches in Hong Kong are Tai Long Wan on the Sai Kung Peninsula, Cheung Sha Wan on the southern side of Lantau Island, Big Wave Bay on Hong Kong's eastern coast, Deep Water Bay on Hong Kong's south side and Shek O in the south-eastern part of Hong Kong Island.
Indoor sports in Hong Kong
On rainy days, or to escape the heat, try out one of the city's many indoor sports. Here, you can find almost anything, from car racing simulators, baseball and softball to indoor skiing and snowboarding, skateboarding, and even hoverboard racing.
International sports in Hong Kong
Due to a strong British influence, Hong Kong has plenty of western sports (basketball, baseball, swimming, MMA, etc.) as well as traditional British sports (golf, rugby, cricket, football, and others).
Golf and rugby take up a special place in the city's athletic heart: both are very popular among locals and expats, boast great facilities, clubs and player associations). MMA (mixed martial arts) is also becoming increasingly popular in the region.
Golfing in Hong Kong
Golf is, without a doubt, one of the most popular sports in Hong Kong inherited from the British colonial period. Indeed, being a member of Royal Hong Kong was deemed to be a real privilege. Today, the city has a large number of golf clubs, most of which are private and require a membership. Some of the best golfing facilities can be found in Deep Water Bay in Kowloon, on Lantau Island, in Kau Saï Chau and on the Saikung Peninsula (in Clearwater Bay). Hong Kong Golf Club is one of the most known in the city and is home to the Hong Kong Open. Learn more about golfing in Hong Kong at the Hong Kong Golf Association.
Rugby in Hong Kong
As a result of the British colonial period, rugby is a well-established sport in Hong Kong and has been played in the region for over 150 years.
Today, there are over 80 rugby clubs in Hong Kong catering to professionals, amateurs, kids and adults, so should you ever want to take up the sport, you surely will be free of a choice of training facilities.
One of the city's most notable sporting events is the Hong Kong Sevens, a tournament of the World Rugby Sevens Series held annually on the weekend of late March or early April.
MMA in Hong Kong
Even though Hong Kong blessed the world with some legendary fighters like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, the city's martial arts scene is still developing – but developing quickly. The popularity of kickboxing, Muay Thai and MMA is growing, and there are many facilities to practice the sports, as well as events to watch, like the IMPI World Series. If you are feeling adventurous, you can even participate in the growingly popular amateur fighting events like White Collar Boxing.
Spectator sports in Hong Kong
If you are looking for a sporting event to attend, there is no shortage of colorful and exciting athletic happenings in the city. As mentioned above, one of the most popular events of the year is Hong Kong Sevens, a rugby tournament. If you want to watch a real spectacle, make sure to attend Dragon Boat Racing, a sport originating from an old Chinese tradition and taking place during the Dragon Boat Festival in late May. Horse riding is also a fascinating spectator sport and one of the most popular in Hong Kong, with over 700 races held annually.
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