Walking Tour: Hong Kong Park

Today's walking tour overlapped with my day job. My students had a field trip to Hong Kong Park, so I took the opportunity to snap some pictures before my responsibilities began. It was unseasonably sunny and warm, a perfect day to capture this pleasant oasis in the middle of the city.

I was stationed by the lake for much of the afternoon, where I waited for each group of students to make their way to me.

Our activity for the day was to find signs in English and talk about them (this was for 2nd graders).

Hong Kong Park is between Central and Admiralty, which means it's overshadowed by some of the city's most unique buildings.

While I waited for my first group of students I did some turtle-watching...

...and in the midst of the picturesque environment...

...there were some sweet people-watching opportunities too.

Many of the workers from the surrounding offices were taking their lunch breaks by the lake.

When you walk around the lake you can find little bridges...

...and a few small waterfalls.

Follow the path around the circumference of the lake past the benches.

On the east side of the lake you can find the lovely, free Museum of Teaware. 

Circle back the lake, where there are fish on your left...

...and lunching office workers on your right.

On the western side of the lake, near the colorful recycling bins...

...there are some steps leading down to Cotton Tree Drive and a sports center.

Take your time admiring things nearby...

...and further away.

When you're ready to explore more of the park, climb the steps ahead.

They'll take you up to a sculpture garden...

...beneath a striking observation tower.

The garden is unexpectedly quiet.

My students collected leaves along the path...

...but we discovered there was no way out.

Finally, we found a staircase beside the aviary.

We looked inside at the birds and people as we descended.

We found a wide brick path at the bottom of the steps.

It took us up to a playground and the road where our bus waited above.

There is more to see in Hong Kong Park, but this is a taste of what it's like on a lovely winter afternoon. It was considerably more charming with my students traipsing around in little groups and exclaiming over the turtles, but I don't feel comfortable posting pictures of them without permission. Take my word for it: they're adorable. 

Next week is Chinese New Year, so look forward to a walking tour in celebration of the Year of the Dragon!