Lion Rock – Hong Kong’s iconic peak is not only known for its breathtaking views of the city but also for its peculiar shape that can be identified from miles away. For those living in Hong Kong, this lion-shaped hill overlooking the city is a symbol of grit and determination. And for many, Lion Rock is a must-do hike!

Rocks and clouds – Lion Rock Peak, Hong Kong

The first time I completed the Lion Rock Hike, I waited for ages for the perfect day. Although it turned out to be hotter than expected, the views from the hike more than made up for the scorching sun!

Lion Rock is a must-do hike in Hong Kong

For those of you looking to hike up Lion Rock, I have put together this guide. I’m going to keep things simple yet thorough while answering all the questions you may have about the hike.

How Difficult Is Lion Rock?

I would say moderately difficult in parts thanks to the steps.

Of course, this depends on your level of fitness and how comfortable you are with hiking. On the other hand, I don’t think anyone would classify Lion Rock Hike as an easy hike.

Lion Rock, Hong Kong

There are many tracks to Lion Rock Peak, and most of them are equally challenging. But this post will focus on the most popular and scenic route from Wong Tai Sin.

The peculiar shape of Lion Rock can be seen from miles away

Here’s a quick video that walks you through the hike. It should give you an idea of the difficulty.

Different hiking routes to Lion Rock

Situated in the Lion Rock Country Park, Lion Rock is situated along MacLehose Trail Section 5, between Kowloon Pass and Shatin Pass. It is flanked by Beacon Hill to the west, and Temple Hill (Tsz Wan Shan) to the east.

Lion Rock and Beacon Hill on the other side

It’s location essentially means that there are numerous trails that lead up to the summit of Lion Rock Peak. But most approaches start from either Wong Tai Sin, Tsz Wan Shan, or Shatin.

The most popular starting point among them is Wong Tai Sin because it’s well-connected by public transport (including the MTR).

However, if you’re interested in learning how to reach Lion Rock from Shatin, you can follow the route to Kowloon Pass from Amah Rock, and then follow the signs to Lion Rock. Alternatively, if you’re interested in starting from Tsz Wan Shan, you can follow the route to Shatin Pass and then enter MacLehose Trail Section 5. I’ve detailed the steps in my guide to the Temple Hill Hike post.

Lion Rock Hike Map & Elevation Profile

As mentioned above, in this post we’ll focus on hiking to Lion Rock from Wong Tai Sin. But even from Wong Tai Sin, there are two slightly varying options,

1. From Shatin Pass via MacLehose Trail Section 5, and
2. Via the steps behind Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir

Both trails meet at Sze Tsz Au, which is the gap between Shatin Pass and Garter Pass (at the base of Lion Rock).

The trail from Shatin Pass is longer but scenic and the trail via the steps behind Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir is shorter, steeper, and not at all scenic.

I’ll provide guides to both the options in this post, and you can decide which one to pick or mix and match if you like.

Lion Rock Peak – quite a resemblance

Below is the map for the Lion Rock Hike from Fat Jong Temple via Shatin Pass and MacLehose Trail Section 5. You can also open this trail in Google Maps.

Lion Rock Hike map and elevation profile (long route)

Similarly, here is the trail map and elevation profile via Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir steps.

Lion Rock Hike Map (shortcut)

I usually recommend first timers to go up from Shatin Pass, and then come down via the Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir steps. If you follow this route, it should take you just over 2 hours to complete the Lion Rock Hike – 1.5 hours to climb up, and then 45 minutes to come down.

One last reminder, the summit of Lion Rock offers little shade. So, carry sufficient sun protection and at least 1 litre of water. Maybe more if it’s a hot day.

Lion Rock Hike Starting Point

The Lion Rock Hike from Wong Tai Sin starts from Fat Jong Temple, which is located on Shatin Pass Road.

Fat Jong Temple, the start of Lion Rock Hike

To reach the Fat Jong Temple, you have two options,

1. Walk to it from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. It’s a 1.1 km steep, uphill walk.
2. Take a taxi to it from Wong Tai Sin MTR Station. It will save you time and help you conserve energy.
   1. You could take the green minibus 18M from outside Exit E to Shatin Pass Estate. The housing complex is across the street from Fat Jong Temple.

Once you reach Fat Jong Temple, it’s time to start hiking up to Lion Rock!

Fat Jong Temple to Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir

From the beautiful Fat Jong Temple, begin your hike by walking uphill on the Shatin Pass Road. If you walked up to Fat Jong Temple, then continue on Shatin Pass Road.

Start your hike from the Fat Jong Temple

The road gradually increases in intensity as it meanders its way uphill and behind Shatin Pass Estate.

Walk up Shatin Pass Road behind Shatin Pass Estate

Walk up at a comfortable pace and stay on the side of the road. As this is a public road, you may find the odd vehicle pass you.

After approximately 330 metres of walking uphill, you’ll arrive at a gate (for the Shatin Pass Fresh Water Pumping House) on the side of the road. Continue walking for another 20 metres till you see a flight of steps heading uphill.

The gate for the Shatin Pass Fresh Water Pumping House

At this juncture, you have the option to take these steps to Sze Tsz Au, or continue on Shatin Pass Road to Shatin Pass and then take MacLehose Trail, which also reaches Sze Tsz Au. Keep in mind, the former is shorter and consists of only steps, but the latter is longer and scenic.

At this point, you can either continue on Shatin Pass Road or take these steps on the left as a shortcut. Both routes meet up at Sze Tsz Au

Click here if you’d like to take the shortcut

Shortcut to Sze Tsz Au from Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir

To take the shortcut, turn left onto the steps and behind walking up.

The steps that go behind the Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir

At the top of the steps is a seating area and beyond that, the steps run alongside the Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir’s fence.

The trail runs alongside the reservoir’s fence

The initial section of the steps is relatively easy and the also well maintained. However, as the climb progresses, the incline becomes steeper and the steps become rougher.

The steps become a bit rough as they climb

The steps are a shorter route but offer no views

Fortunately, there is plenty of shade and I’d advise taking frequent breaks.

As the steps get closer to Sze Tsz Au, they become even steeper. Just what you don’t want at this stage!

The incline starts becoming steeper

See also

Ma On Shan Country Trail Hike, Hong Kong

Almost at the end of the steps

When the steps finally end at Sze Tsz Au, turn left to rejoin MacLehose Trail Section 5 towards Lion Rock.

You’ve arrived at Sze Tsz Au

Turn left and follow the signs for Lion Rock

If you took this shortcut, skip to the Sze Tsz Au to Garter Pass heading below.

Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir to Shatin Pass

If you decided against taking the steps, then continue walking uphill on Shatin Pass Road.

Just after the steps, you’ll pass the Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir on your left. The road twists and turns as it keeps ascending. Along the way, you’ll start to see views of Kowloon on the right. But I doubt this view would compensate for you being so out of breath at this stage.

You’ll know if you’re close to the end of this section of the hike, when you see the Tsz Chuk Pavilion and steps to Lion’s Pavilion at Shatin Pass.

Tsz Chuk Pavilion

At this point, walk to the next bend after Tsz Chuk Pavilion to arrive at the entrance to Section 5 of the MacLehose Trail and the Lion Rock Country Park.

The entrance to the Lion Rock hike

Take a break, you’ve earned it!

Shatin Pass to Sze Tsz Au via MacLehose Trail Section 5

Once you enter Lion Rock Country Park, you trade the incline of a paved road for rugged country park steps. The steps at the start are relatively challenging but not too steep.

The Lion Rock Hike, Hong Kong

If you’re still recovering from the initial uphill walk, go slow and climb at a comfortable pace. There are a few good resting spots along the way.

After the steps turn the corner, you’re greeted with panoramic views of Kowloon. There is a part where the views of the steps against the city are just so beautiful. It was here that I began to feel that the hike was worth it!

If you’ve chosen a clear day to hike up Lion Rock, the views from this section of the hike are quite enjoyable. I took my time to ascend these steps, because after them, the views disappear.

But the good news is that once the steps finish, the flat terrain begins. And it feels like such a relief after all this climbing.

What follows next is a relatively flat and shaded section of the MacLehose Trail. There’s plenty of shade and depending on your luck, you may or may not spot monkeys on the trees.

The beautiful hiking path to Lion Rock (beware of monkeys)

Stay calm and carry on hiking. The monkeys won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. Refrain from feeding them, or eating in front of them.

Side note: In case you hadn’t noticed, this section of MacLehose Trail overlaps with the War Relics Trail (Lion Rock and Ma On Shan). Keep a lookout for interesting markers for WWII relics along the trail!

A direction slab from WWII

After approximately, 700 metres after the steps, you’ll arrive at Sze Tsz Au, the gap where the steps from Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir meet the Maclehose Trail.

Sze Tsz Au to Garter Pass

Whether you arrived at Sze Tsz Au via the shortcut or MacLehose Trail, the next 500 metres is an easy walk to Garter Pass.

MacLehose Section Trail Section 5 continues after Sze Tsz Au

MacLehose Trail continues to meander through Lion Rock Country Park, remaining more or less flat. During this section, you can continue to admire the gorgeous views of Shatin and the way to Plover Cove Reservoir on a clear day.

Views of Shatin and beyond

The War Relics Trail (Lion Rock and Ma On Shan) also continues and there are a few more interesting relics on this side of Sze Tsz Au, such as a pillbox (with a viewing deck built onto of it) and more direction markers.

Take your time to read about these relics, and if they pique your interest, I highly recommend the Shing Mun War Relics Trail or the Wong Nai Ching Gap Trail.

Stay on this trail till you reach Garter Pass, where you’ll notice a flight of steps with signs for Lion Rock Peak.

Almost at Garter Pass

Take a break here if you need to before you begin the final ascent to Lion Rock Peak.

At Garter Pass, turn left and follow the signs for Lion Rock Peak

The Challenging 500 m Ascent to Lion Rock

From Garter Pass, Lion Rock Peak is only 500 metres away. But unfortunately, the first 300 metres of the final ascent consists of very steep steps. This section is fiendishly challenging, and you must summon your own “Lion Rock Spirit” to conquer it!

The final 500 metres is no easy walk

There is no need to rush yourself. Go slow, take it easy, and climb at a pace that you’re comfortable with.

The final ascent can be very challenging for some. Go easy!

At the halfway point, there is a giant boulder. It’s worth taking a break here (quite literally on the boulder) to catch your breath and enjoy the views of Shatin.

Continue to push yourself for another 150 odd metres till you finally see the end!

Huffing and puffing your way to Lion Rock Peak

When you emerge from the steps, you’ll be greeted by some of the most spectacular views of Hong Kong right in front of you! Congratulations, you made it to Lion Rock!

But the hike doesn’t end here.

To Lion Rock Head

From my perspective, there are three sections on Lion Rock – the tail, the body, and the head. The steps emerge at the tail of the lion. Standing here, you can see the Lion Rock Head at the other end, separated by the body.

Lion Rock overlooking Hong Kong

If you want to reach the end of the lion, i.e. Lion Rock Head, it’s short excursion to get there from the tail.

I suggest taking your time to explore the summit of this iconic peak as you walk along the trail at the top.

Views From Lion Rock Peak

Needless to say, the views from Lion Rock Peak of Hong Kong are phenomenal! Just check out the photos of the views from on top of Lion Rock. I don’t think words are needed.

Survey the city below you as you stand on top of Lion Rock

The peak lies on a ridge that separates Kowloon from the New Territories. So, on a clear day, you can see Kowloon and Hong Kong Island on one side. The panoramic view stretches from Kowloon Peak to Beacon Hill and beyond on the other side!

Views of east Kowloon from Lion Rock

Behind Lion Rock, the most obvious peak that towers above everything else is Tai Mo Shan. One can also admire the New Territories – Shatin, Ma On Shan, Plover Cove. And the other hills too, such as Needle Hill, Grassy Hill, and all the way to the Eight Immortals.

Panoramic views of what lies behind Lion Rock Peak

Lion Rock offers hikes some of the best panoramic views of Hong Kong. No wonder it’s a must-do hike for anyone in Hong Kong!

There are also numerous spots on the summit to get a good picture of yours with the city in the background. Feel free to walk around and explore the various points. Each offers a different perspective in my opinion.

End The Hike

Once you’re done soaking in all the views from Lion Rock, it’s time to head back down. As mentioned earlier, I recommend taking the steps to Fung Wong Fresh Water Service Reservoir from Sze Tsz Au.

Just keep an eye out for the signpost for Shatin Pass Estate on your way back (Click here to open the trail in Google Maps).

Panoramic view of Lion Rock in between Kowloon (on the right) and Sha Tin (on the left)

This trail will bring you out just behind the Fat Jong Temple, near the Shatin Pass Pump House. From here you can walk down to Wong Tai Sin MTR station, or take the green minibus 18M from Shatin Pass Estate back to the station.

However, many also choose to continue to Beacon Hill or Temple Hill from Lion Rock.

Best Time For The Hike

The Lion Rock Hike is best enjoyed on a clear day, before midday or in the evening.

Panoramic view of Lion Rock Peak seen from the New Territories side

If you decide to hike in the morning, I would advise you to start early and complete the trail before noon. Or you can start in the afternoon, and complete it by early evening (before sundown).

A vast portion of the hike lacks shade, including the peak. On a clear, hot day the sun can be very unforgiving on Lion Rock Peak. Again, remember to carry sufficient sun protection.

Lion Rock Night Hike

The hike is equally popular as a night activity. The views of the city at night from Lion Rock are equally spectacular, except that you get to see the city lights! You can stand there and watch the lights come on and illuminate the world beneath you in spectacular fashion.

However, I wouldn’t recommend that you attempt the night hike before you’ve conquered Lion Rock during the daytime. Once you’re comfortable with the trail and confident of your level of fitness, go for it. And most importantly, don’t forget to carry a torch.

Lion Rock – Hong Kong’s Iconic & Symbolic Peak

Completing the Lion Rock Hike feels like unlocking an achievement in Hong Kong. After all, it’s one of the most iconic hikes in the city.

The icon, the legend!

Speaking of iconic hikes, if you’re new to Hong Kong or just visiting, I would recommend Dragon’s Back as a good starter hike. But if you’re hiking for similar views of the city, I would recommend the hike to Temple Hill or Beacon Hill. They both offer equally great views, with slightly less climbing.

Lion Rock at sunset

Hope you enjoyed this guide. As always, feel free to share it on the social media channel of your choice or leave a comment below.

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