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

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 1950s to the 1970s, the walled city was controlled by Triads and had high prostitution, gambling, and drug use rates.

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.

What it once looked like

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

How To Get To The Kowloon Walled City 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 MTR stop to the Kowloon Walled City Park is Sung Wong Toi on the Tuen Ma Line. Take Exit B3, and walk on Lung Kong Road.

Kowloon Walled City Park Entrance

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

Kowloon Walled City Park in Pictures

Today, the site of the Kowloon Walled City is a 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 highly recommend heading to Islam Food. They have two branches next to the Kowloon Walled City Park that serves some delicious fusion food and curries. Make sure you order the veal goulash.

Kowloon City is also known for its incredible Thai restaurants and shops. We haven’t tried many, but recently visited Thai Chang House and absolutely loved their Thai food!

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