You may think it’s impossible to truly enjoy the night sky in Hong Kong with all its skyscrapers and bright lights. But if you know where to look, there are plenty of hidden gems where you can escape light pollution. Needless to say, the weather is a big factor is being able to see the stars, so timing your excursion is key. Try and pick a day with minimal smog and clouds so that there’s less of an ambient glow coming from the city lights.
- Po Toi Island – or any outlying island really
Outlying islands are the hidden gems of Hong Kong. Once you get away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, then the stars will well and truly shine. The trick is to find a location facing away from the brightest parts of the city. As the southernmost island, Po Toi is very secluded and has few inhabitants, making it perfect for stargazing and camping. Get a ferry out one night to enjoy the night sky in all its glory with your telescope.
- Sai Kung – Clearwater Bay Country Park
Another natural paradise so close to the city! Sai Kung is perfect for a family day out. Enjoy its beaches and restaurants, then pick a nice spot to sit and enjoy the stars. Needless to say, you’ll get a better view of the galaxy if you head into the country park away from the main town. Don’t forget to bring a torch and your telescope!
- Lantau – Sunset Peak
When it doubt, go up a mountain! As a popular hiking trail in Hong Kong, Sunset Peak has clear routes up to the summit. With a relatively flat area at the summit, you will be able to easily set up your equipment and enjoy the greatest light show ever. Of course, taking all your gear in a backpack up the mountain might sound a little tedious, so we recommend using the lightweight and compact ONAGER ONE telescope for this endeavour.
- Victoria Peak – Victoria Peak Garden
For those who prefer more refined surroundings and easier accessibility, Victoria Peak Garden is a place to enjoy the stars. You can hike up the Peak or simply get a taxi to the top and walk from there. There’s something quite special about gazing at the stars and moon in a beautiful garden, especially one in the heart of the city!
- Ma On Shan
For the more the adventurous, Ma On Shan is a great hike with some sections that prove to be rather challenging. However, the results are well worth it. With plenty of flat areas that are perfect for setting up your tripod, you will be able to gaze at the stars in breathtaking surroundings. Give this one a go for a truly unforgettable night sky experience.
Finally, if you’re not feeling like trekking out to a far-flung location to look at the stars, that’s okay! You don’t always need to go in search of the perfect location to stargaze, you can even do it in the comfort of your own home. When the Moon is full and the weather is clear, simply set up your telescope facing out a window or on your balcony and switch off the lights. Let your eyes adjust to the darkness, then begin peering through the eyepiece. While you won’t be able to make out the milky way, you’ll definitely be able to scan the surface of the Moon. So just give it a try!
Bonus:
It would be a shame not to mention Hong Kong’s very own Astropark. Located in Sai Kung, the Hong Kong Space Museum Astropark is more than equipped to give you a tour of the night sky. They even provide telescopes for the public to enjoy, along with an interesting collection of ancient Chinese astronomical instruments. Additionally, if the weather is terrible, then there’s always the planetarium! https://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Space/Astropark/astropark_intro_en.php