Is this the sharpest peak in Hong Kong? High Junk Peak challenges you. Its 344-meter height might not seem immense. Yet its steep incline earns it a place among Hong Kong’s three sharpest peaks. Located in the Sai Kung District’s Clear Water Bay Country Park High Junk Peak offers a breathtaking hike. This is not for the faint of heart. The 7km trail is rocky and unforgiving. It tests your endurance. The reward is incredible. From the summit you witness a 360-degree panorama. Kowloon New Territories and Hong Kong Island spread beneath you.
High Junk Peak’s name translates to Kingfisher. This refers to the peak’s shape. It resembles a kingfisher in flight. The trail itself is a mix of dirt paths and rocky terrain. It’s well-marked though. You won’t get lost. The best time to climb is during autumn winter or early spring. Summer’s heat makes the exposed trail too challenging. Remember to bring water and snacks. There are no shops along the way.
The journey to the top is arduous. You’ll climb stairs and navigate rocky paths. Gloves are recommended for the steepest sections. The initial ascent leads you to Sheung Yeung Shan the first mountain on the route. You can see Sai Kung to the north and Clear Water Bay to the east from this point. This provides a taste of the views to come.
Further on lies Miu Tsai Tun another peak that provides spectacular viewpoints. From here you can see Tseung Kwan O and even the International Finance Centre on Hong Kong Island on a clear day. The final climb to High Junk Peak’s summit is intense. It’s a short but physically demanding climb requiring some scrambling. But once you arrive at the triangulation station at the top the panoramic view makes the effort worthwhile.
The descent is equally challenging. It’s a steep rocky stairway that needs caution. The trail then winds its way down through more stunning scenery. Clear Water Bay stretches below. You eventually reach a Tin Hau Temple at the trail’s end. This temple is the largest and oldest dedicated to the goddess Tin Hau in the city. Here you will find a rock inscription dating back to 1274. From there you can reach the charming fishing village of Po Toi O. This completes your High Junk Peak adventure. This is a challenging but rewarding day out. A true taste of Hong Kong’s beauty and resilience.