The Beauty Beyond the Concrete Jungle

Getting used to city life is fairly overwhelming at first, living in the great British countryside and suddenly finding myself in the depths of Hong Kong’s metropolis took at least the first week of getting to grips with. 

But little did I know, I was yet to experience the beauty beyond the concrete jungle of Hong Kong… Surrounded by handfuls of beaches, offering undisturbed serenity or a laid back party atmosphere, as well as beautiful mountainous peaks and views amongst the surrounding islands, there really is something for everyone. 

Venturing to Hong Kong’s most beautiful and undisturbed beach Tai Lon Wang, is an experience I will never forget. Travelling for almost two hours by train, bus and speedboat - it was oh so worth it! The crystal clear turquoise water and powder white sand beach sat on a remote island of it’s own, nestled amongst luscious green peaks and national parks - it was heaven on earth!

Above: Tai Lon Wang Beach (Tai Lon Wang, Hong Kong)

Alongside this, Hong Kong has such a colourful and interesting culture outside of the city buzz. My next adventure to escape the hustle and bustle was to Ngong Ping on Lantau Island, the largest island surrounding Hong Kong, and housing the famous ‘Giant Buddha’ (Tian Tan) and Po Lin Monastery. Taking in such breathtaking views along the glass bottom cable car journey between Ngong Ping and the village was astounding, and like nothing I have ever seen before. 

Above: Cable car ride to Lantau Island (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

Two hundred and sixty eight steps, (and plenty of huffing and puffing in the almost unbearable heat) later, you’re at the top of the Giant Buddha,  It’s hard to imagine that you are just a train (and cable car) journey away from the craziness of Hong Kong city! 

 Above: Tian Tan aka the 'Giant Buddha' (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

 Above: Views at the top of Tian Tan (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

Above: Po Lin Monastery (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

Above: Po Lin Monastery (Lantau Island, Hong Kong)

I’m yet to take on any of the hikes surrounding Kowloon or Hong Kong city, but I’ve been loving the countryside (esc) sights to see; another favourite has to be the Nan Lian Gardens and the Chi Lin Nunnery. Within Hong Kong’s Diamond Hill district, the Chinese Classical style gardens and Buddhist temple is a sweet retreat from the city, but still within the city itself. The traditional Tang Dynasty style and architecture of both the gardens and temple offer a slice of zen and peace, and a perfect so called breath of fresh air without travelling a long way out. 
The beauty of these places can’t go without a mention either, the energetic colours and decorative Chinese structures are awe inspiring… some serious inspiration for my upcoming university projects!

 Above: Nan Lian Gardens (Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong)


Above: Chi Lin Nunnery Temple Courtyard (Diamond Hill, Kowloon, Hong Kong)

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