Visit The Kowloon Walled City Park

The Kowloon Walled City Park is a remnant of one of Hong Kong’s historical and notorious landmarks – The Kowloon Walled City.

History

The Kowloon Walled City is still remembered today as a haven of crime and debauchery. Originally a Chinese military fort, the Walled City became an enclave after the New Territories were leased to Britain in 1898. Its population increased dramatically following the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during World War II. By 1987, the Walled City contained 33,000 residents within its 2.6-hectare (6.4-acre) walls. From the 1950’s to the 1970’s, it was controlled by triads and had high rates of prostitution, gambling, and drug use.

Over time, both the British and the Chinese governments found the City to be increasingly intolerable, despite a reduction in the reported crime rate. The quality of life in the Walled City – sanitary conditions in particular – remained far behind the rest of Hong Kong. And so, it had to be destroyed.

The demolition of the Walled City began on 23 March 1993 and concluded in April 1994. Construction work on Kowloon Walled City Park started the following month.

Before The Park

If you’re wondering what the Kowloon Walled City looked like, here’s an old famous picture.

How To Get To The Park

Inside the Kowloon Walled City Park

The park is easily accessible by bus, MTR or taxi.

By bus

Numerous buses ply on Boundary Street or Prince Edward Road East. I’d advise you to check the quickest route for yourself using Google Maps.

By MTR

The closest stop to the Kowloon Walled City Park is Lok Fu, on the Kwun Tong Line (green colour). Take Exit A, and walk along Junction Road for 10 minutes.

Kowloon Walled City Park Entrance

There are multiple entrance points to the park, depending from which side you approach it. Fortunately, there is no entry fee. So walk right in.

Kowloon Walled City Park Pictures

Today, the site of the Kowloon Walled City is beautiful park with remnants from the former city. The park is divided into smaller zones. I’d say, budget an hour to see the entire park. My favourite part of the park was the Chess Garden and Garden of the Chinese Zodiacs.

If you’re in the neighbourhood around lunch/dinner, I’d highly recommend heading to Islam Food. They have two branches next to the Kowloon Walled City Park that serve some delicious fusion food and curries. Make sure you order the veal goulash.

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