5 Ways to Zen Out in Hong Kong

2020 has been tough for many of us, but that doesn’t mean we can’t welcome 2021 with a refreshed mind, and a smile! As we approach the end of the year, let’s take a break, slow down and find our Zen at these peaceful places in Hong Kong.

1. Take a mindful stroll along Sir Cecil’s Ride, Braemar Hill

Sometimes, you don’t need to go far to escape the frenzy of the city. Situated near Quarry Bay, Braemar Hill offers a number of scenic hikes that suit all fitness levels. For an easy meditative walk, get on the Sir Cecil’s Ride Loop, which is accessible via Mount Parker Road (a 30-minute hike from the Quarry Bay Sports Centre, near Taikoo Place). Along the trail are both shaded paths and vantage points with breathtaking panoramas of the city. Enjoy the much-needed sense of calm as you take in the views.

Find your Zen: Take a rest on the shaded banks of the Sir Cecil’s Ride Stream and get soothed by the sounds of flowing water.

2. Immerse yourself in nature at Saiyuen Camping & Adventure Park, Cheung Chau

Fact: being in nature relaxes us. Also fact: spending quality time with loved ones makes us happy. So why not take your family on a weekend getaway for a dose of nature together? Located at the southwest tip of Cheung Chau, Saiyuen is a hassle-free camping site withplenty of opportunities to connect with nature and get your Zen on. How about a walk along the grassy promenade? Or catch the sunset on a swing with views over the picturesque Po Yue Wan?

Find your Zen: Sleep under the stars inside a Star Gazing Geodesic Dome. Designed with a transparent front section, the tent provides all the mod cons while immersing you in nature.

=========================================
Care about mental wellbeing?
Read The Mag’s WELLNESS stories.
=========================================

3. Find harmony at Green Hub, Tai Po

We’re so used to being plugged in 24/7, yet we still feel more isolated than ever. It’s time to reconnect with the world – visit Green Hub, a sustainable living centre that sits on a serene hilltop overlooking Tolo Harbour. Formerly the Old Tai Po Police Station, the heritage site is today complete with a vegan restaurant, a co-op shop and guestrooms for those after a communal residential experience. Discover low-carbon lifestyle with educational workshops ranging from soap making and sewing to sustainable eating and cooking.

Find your Zen: Master the art of mindful cooking at their Eat Well Cookery Class, which features low-carbon, healthy recipes of seasonal dishes that you can easily recreate at home.

4. De-stress with a soak at T · PARK, Tuen Mun

A sludge treatment facility may be the last place that comes to mind when you need some calm and quiet, but T · PARK offers exactly that at its Environmental Education Centre. It houses an eco-friendly café, a rooftop garden, a reinstated sanctuary for wildlife, as well as the 9,800sqm T · GARDEN that comprises four themed gardens and an outdoor footbath – ideal for some fresh air and relaxation. Visits are by reservation only, so you know it’ll never get overcrowded at this tranquil oasis.

Find your Zen: Take a soak – not in the sludge, but in the three spa pools at T · SPA, which comes with sweeping views of Deep Bay.

5. Get away from it all on Sharp Island, Sai Kung

Being on an island gives you a sense of removal from the everyday, and luckily for us, there’s no shortage of unspoilt islands in Hong Kong. One such gem is Sharp Island in Sai Kung’s UNESCO Global Geopark. Known for unique rock formations that resemble pineapple buns, the island is home to a family-friendly trail and two sandy beaches – Half Moon Bay and Kiu Tsui. So, go on a hike or take a swim in the clear waters – or both – and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer.

Find your Zen: During low tide, a tombolo linking Kiu Tsui and the opposite Kiu Tau islet will emerge from the sea. Take a stroll on this natural sand levee and simply relish in the present moment.

*Events and social distancing restrictions are changing fast, so do check with the venues and take note of the latest government announcements before you head out.

You can create your own Zen retreat too – here are 5 Ways to Create a Relaxing Home.