In the bustling district of Mong Kok enjoy a unique hiking experience

Local Delicacies: Rich and flavourful peanut candy

Amore Hand Baked Cake (阿嫲現烤手工蛋糕), a popular choice for local gifts. The store is easily accessible, just a left turn from Exit E of Prince Edward MTR Station. If you're coming from Mong Kok, walk along Nathan Road toward Prince Edward on the left side. Although the shop is small, the variety may leave you with "Decidophobia". The boxed peanut cookies are a must-try, packed with rich peanut flavour, along with other treats like walnut, cashew, and cocoa crisps made from macadamia nuts. Notably, their products contain no additives or preservatives, resulting in a shorter shelf life than typical Chinese pastries. However, their bite-sized nature makes them easy to devour quickly!

Amore also offers uniquely “Cats” shaped breads and triple cheese buns, along with toasts with fig Earl Grey flavour, attracting both locals and visitors to purchase. Notably, they serve "salty egg yolk pineapple shortcake(鹹蛋黃鳳梨酥)," which harmoniously combine the flavours of salted egg yolk and pineapple, as well as mochi-flavoured pineapple shortcakes for a delightful taste experience.

Amore Hand Baked Cake
Address: Nathan Road 787C (left turn from Prince Edward MTR Exit E)

Enjoy the spacious grassy area with all the necessary facilities

Once you've secured your treats, walk straight from Boundary Street toward Kowloon City, then you will arrive at the Tai Hang Tung Recreation Ground, which boasts a spacious grassy area. It features a soccer field and a basketball court, which is uncommon in the city. This playground is ideal for children, complete with play facilities, washing areas, and changing rooms.

After having enough rest from the grass, it's a short walk to a staircase that offers a scenic view of the area. The path is easy to navigate, and as you ascend, you'll enjoy the shade provided by the Chinese Banyan. A leisurely ten-minute walk will reward you with a view of the famous Lion Rock, surrounded by the Festival Walk, City University of Hong Kong, Nam Shan Estate, and the soon-to-be-demolished Tai Hang Sai Estate. Many may not expect such beauty in the city, making it a hidden gem.

Tai Hang Tung Recreation Ground

Address: 63 Boundary Street, Sham Shui Po

The ascent is easy, accompanied by the soothing sounds of nature all around

Bishop Hill, also known as Woh Chai Mountain, features the former Sham Shui Po Waterworks, a Romanesque underground reservoir built before the war. Its design rivals that of Istanbul's Cistern Basilica and is classified as a Grade I historic building. Currently, visits are by appointment only; interested individuals can schedule a visit through the Hong Kong Water Supplies Department's website.

Along the path, clear signs lead to Berwick Street, making it hard to get lost. You'll also notice rest areas created by morning exercisers. Interestingly, as you walk, you might hear the sound of ping pong balls! There are countless outdoor tables set up, each carefully surrounded by nets to shield against the wind and prevent balls from rolling down the mountain. You may even spot fellow enthusiasts tidying up the area. Despite the simple facilities exposed to the elements, the dedication of ping pong fans to their practice remains unwavering. 

Step into history and immerse yourself in a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles

Follow the signs toward Berwick Street to return to the city, where you'll find St. Francis Xavier Parish nearby. This church features a simple design that harmoniously blends Eastern and Western architectural styles, with a Chinese tower topped by a cross, and a floor reminiscent of traditional Western churches. Standing in Sham Shui Po since 1955, it has served the community for nearly 70 years. Originally named St. Francis of Assisi Church, it was renamed St. Francis Xavier's Church in 1966. 

On the right side of the church is a non-profit credit union that promotes thrift among its members while offering loans for their needs. Established on September 1, 1970, it has been serving the community for 54 years. Two spiral staircases lead to the upper level, where a statue of St. Francis faces the wooden sanctuary doors. The spacious church features a consistent theme of arches in its architecture, with side windows and altars highlighting this aesthetic. Stained glass windows behind the altar depict the story of St. Francis. Visitors are kindly reminded to maintain silence and adhere to the church's dress code. 

St. Francis Xavier Parish Church (聖方濟各堂)

Address: 58 Shek Kip Mei Street, Kowloon