Sunset Serenity at Nan Lian Garden

Hong Kong Travel Recommendation｜Nan Lian Garden x Hammer Hill Leisure Half-Day Guide

Beyond the bustling cityscape, Hong Kong offers tranquil hidden gems perfect for a relaxing day 😇! This itinerary takes you to the serene Nan Lian Garden in Diamond Hill, followed by a refreshing hike up Hammer Hill to enjoy fresh air and stunning urban views. If you're looking for a quick escape to rejuvenate your mind and body, this is the perfect choice!

Highlights: Nan Lian Garden boasts a classical charm with Song Dynasty-inspired landscaping, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll on weekends. Hammer Hill, on the other hand, is a rare urban hill offering panoramic views of Kowloon. The trail is simple and beginner-friendly.

Recommended Attractions:

📍Nan Lian Garden
Address: Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Daily 07:00-21:00

Nan Lian Garden feels like stepping into an ancient Chinese garden, with arch bridges, rock formations, and ponds that are perfect for photography. Morning visits are highly recommended as the sunlight creates a poetic ambiance. Adjacent to the garden is Chi Lin Nunnery, which you can also explore to deepen your understanding of traditional Chinese garden culture.

Tips: Nan Lian Garden offers free admission and has restroom facilities, making it convenient for families. Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll need to walk around the garden. Note that eating and drinking are prohibited inside the garden. For meals, you can visit the nearby Chi Lin Vegetarian Restaurant for a quiet and healthy dining experience.

📍Hammer Hill
Address: Kai Tak, Hong Kong
Opening Hours: Open all year round

If you're stuck in the city and looking for an easy hike, Hammer Hill is the place to go! Starting from Diamond Hill, it takes about 30 minutes to walk to Hammer Hill. The path is mostly flat with occasional stairs, making it manageable for beginners. While there are no commercial facilities, the summit offers a 360° view of Kowloon East, with the sunset being particularly stunning. Perfect for urbanites seeking a quick half-day getaway.

Pre-hike Tips: Bring water and sunscreen as there is little shade along the trail, and summer sun can be intense. The ridge area can be windy, so hold onto your hat. If you tend to sweat, pack some wet wipes for cleaning up.

Transportation Guide:
Nan Lian Garden is conveniently located near Diamond Hill MTR Station, just a 7-minute walk along Fung Tak Road. To visit Hammer Hill, you can continue walking from Nan Lian Garden for about 30 minutes or start from Kai Tak MTR Station. Flexible arrangements are possible.

Food Recommendations:
After visiting Nan Lian Garden, try Chi Lin Vegetarian Restaurant (Address: 5 Fung Tak Road, Diamond Hill) for Chinese vegetarian cuisine. For local snacks, head to Hollywood Plaza in Diamond Hill, which offers a variety of options including noodles, rice dishes, and desserts.

Practical Tips:
1. Eating and smoking are prohibited inside Nan Lian Garden; please maintain cleanliness.
2. Hammer Hill's simple trail is suitable for families and first-time hikers.
3. Both attractions have restroom facilities for added convenience.
4. Start your trip in the morning or at sunset to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best views.

This itinerary is perfect for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle without too much effort. Spend a quiet half-day exploring Nan Lian Garden and hiking up Hammer Hill! Which time of day do you think is best? Share your thoughts in the comments!