Dragon's Back
Dragon's Back
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
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Neighbourhood: Shek O
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Hong Kong, China1,233 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
Another spectacular hike in HK
Not so difficult but you feel the hike
It takes around 3 hrs to end from Big Waves Bay
Beautiful scenery of Tai Tam, Turtles Cove
Not so difficult but you feel the hike
It takes around 3 hrs to end from Big Waves Bay
Beautiful scenery of Tai Tam, Turtles Cove
Written 10 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
VickyLargs
Largs, UK87 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
I put this trail on my to-do list after reading Tripadvisor reviews and this was the right decision. A bit apprehensive whether I can do it with my suboptimal hiking skills, but it was ok. Rather steep at the beginning, but with nice view points for breaks. At the start of the trail, contrary to what people say here, there is a warning that it is for serious hikers, but I would say it’s of moderate difficulty level and well worth doing. We have indeed seen families with toddlers on the way. We have done the trail on a week day, which I would recommend to escape the queues, although probably Hong Kong is not that busy anyway now as Covid restrictions just start to be lifted. We have taken a shorter circular trail as we wanted to leave time to get to Shek O village and I would say we managed to get breathtaking views anyway. It’s a ridge which gives you 360degrees panorama which is simply amazing!
Written 8 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Joe
Budapest, Hungary3,336 contributions
Oct 2021 • Friends
The Dragon’s Back (Traditional Chinese: 龍脊) is a ridge in southeastern Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, between Wan Cham Shan and Shek O Peak. It lies within the Shek O Country Park. In 2004 the Dragon’s Back Trail was selected by TIME Asia as the best urban hiking trail. Dragons back is possibly the most well-known and well-travelled hike in HK. This is due to its easy terrain, convenient start and end point, it’s proximity to the beaches and of course it’s breath-taking views.
was instantly surprised by how busy this was compared to other trails I’ve been to in HK. But it was a sunny Sunday and the temperature was perfect, so I guess local people just thought why not?!
Start the Dragons Back Hong Kong along Shek O Road, just a 20-minute drive from Central Hong Kong. Either take a taxi or you can take no.9 bus from Shau Kei Wan MTR station, and stop at the bus stop at To Tei Wan Village. The entrance to the Dragon’s Back is right at the bus stop and is highlighted with a large sign and map
The trail starts (and ends) very easily. It’s not difficult terrain and it’s quite casual to hike, even a beginner could do this I feel. After around 30 mins it was time for lunch. Vincent advised us to eat first and check out the views second. However, a few of us climbed the rocks to get some good photos and soak in the vista below. Much to our horror the lunch was almost gone. Lesson learned, next time have lunch first! It’s a funny story to tell at least and it didn’t really affect the day in anyway. After lunch came the bulk of the walk. Some stairs, some trail. All well-defined and easy to navigate, we soon began making great profess. The only problem was how slow some people are in front of us. Traffic jam on the mountain! Along the route there are numerous majestic photo opportunities and views of the vista below you. Beaches, oceans and even villas. The views are seared into my brain for all eternity. The top side of dragons back continue to give good views and good breeze from 360 degrees. However, as you descend the views disappear. With trees on both side of the trail, you cannot really see much and the 2nd half of the hike was a bit disappointing. The highlight being a refreshing stream to wash our faces and drink. Clean and healthy!
After defeating the dragon, you end at Big Wave Bay. Still recovering from the devastation of the typhoon, this a popular haven for water sport fanatics with surfers and wind surfers out in force.
The beach was clean and spacious, the other beach goers not giving us a second look and just going about their business. My opinion is that Big Wave Bay is a bit boring if you don’t go in the water. I’ve never been a beach lover and I didn’t bring a swim suit, so I quickly got bored. With little to see here I was happy to move onto Shek O village
Shek O is a sleepy seaside village that was quaint and charming. With pastel colour buildings such as pink and orange this gives it a unique style seldom found in mainland China. Also the set of a famous Romantic Movie (don’t ask me which one or if it’s good) this bring tourists here from all corners of HK. Shek O was a great way to end the trip. It has a superior beach than Big Wave Bay and we witnessed an awesome sunset and the sky was on fire almost. I also found myself a HK style milk tea which is a must for me every time I visit HK.
Dragons Back is a must hike in HK, it’s considered the best ‘urban trail’ in the city. My advice would be to do the hike then head to Shek O beach, skip out Big Wave Bay completely, unless you are a big water sports fan.
was instantly surprised by how busy this was compared to other trails I’ve been to in HK. But it was a sunny Sunday and the temperature was perfect, so I guess local people just thought why not?!
Start the Dragons Back Hong Kong along Shek O Road, just a 20-minute drive from Central Hong Kong. Either take a taxi or you can take no.9 bus from Shau Kei Wan MTR station, and stop at the bus stop at To Tei Wan Village. The entrance to the Dragon’s Back is right at the bus stop and is highlighted with a large sign and map
The trail starts (and ends) very easily. It’s not difficult terrain and it’s quite casual to hike, even a beginner could do this I feel. After around 30 mins it was time for lunch. Vincent advised us to eat first and check out the views second. However, a few of us climbed the rocks to get some good photos and soak in the vista below. Much to our horror the lunch was almost gone. Lesson learned, next time have lunch first! It’s a funny story to tell at least and it didn’t really affect the day in anyway. After lunch came the bulk of the walk. Some stairs, some trail. All well-defined and easy to navigate, we soon began making great profess. The only problem was how slow some people are in front of us. Traffic jam on the mountain! Along the route there are numerous majestic photo opportunities and views of the vista below you. Beaches, oceans and even villas. The views are seared into my brain for all eternity. The top side of dragons back continue to give good views and good breeze from 360 degrees. However, as you descend the views disappear. With trees on both side of the trail, you cannot really see much and the 2nd half of the hike was a bit disappointing. The highlight being a refreshing stream to wash our faces and drink. Clean and healthy!
After defeating the dragon, you end at Big Wave Bay. Still recovering from the devastation of the typhoon, this a popular haven for water sport fanatics with surfers and wind surfers out in force.
The beach was clean and spacious, the other beach goers not giving us a second look and just going about their business. My opinion is that Big Wave Bay is a bit boring if you don’t go in the water. I’ve never been a beach lover and I didn’t bring a swim suit, so I quickly got bored. With little to see here I was happy to move onto Shek O village
Shek O is a sleepy seaside village that was quaint and charming. With pastel colour buildings such as pink and orange this gives it a unique style seldom found in mainland China. Also the set of a famous Romantic Movie (don’t ask me which one or if it’s good) this bring tourists here from all corners of HK. Shek O was a great way to end the trip. It has a superior beach than Big Wave Bay and we witnessed an awesome sunset and the sky was on fire almost. I also found myself a HK style milk tea which is a must for me every time I visit HK.
Dragons Back is a must hike in HK, it’s considered the best ‘urban trail’ in the city. My advice would be to do the hike then head to Shek O beach, skip out Big Wave Bay completely, unless you are a big water sports fan.
Written 23 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Honest Reviews
7 contributions
Oct 2021
Make sure you go early or on a weekday to avoid the herds (popular route!)
Take the hike over to big wave bay, its absolutely beautiful
Take the hike over to big wave bay, its absolutely beautiful
Written 2 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Caroline Heet
5 contributions
Dec 2021
I was quite shocked because one of my more exotic friends in the UK said there had to be a dragon or at the least a dragon statue but I didn't see it, I don't know if I missed it but I was utmost dissapointed.
Written 11 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
BradJill
Hong Kong, China155,208 contributions
Dec 2021
The Dragon's Back Trail is one of the most popular urban hikes in all of Hong Kong. Located in the Shek O Country Park, this is an easy, well-surfaced and maintained trail with a few moderately difficult ascends. As such, you will find hikers and walkers of all fitness levels doing this hike, including families with little ones.
Most begin at the southern end of the trail near Tei Wan Village and make the roughly 8km hike north to Big Wave Bay. Bus route 9 from Shau Kei Wan (MTR Exit A) to Shek O has a drop off at To Tei Wan at the Dragon's Back trailhead. At Big Wave Bay, you can take red minibus to 'Shau Kei Wan' or call in a taxi when ready to head back to the city.
The Dragon's Back Trail is particularly impressive in the southern section where it winds a ridge and provides rewarding views the Shek O Peninsula and sea to the east. To the west, you will be able to see much of the southern side of Hong Kong Island. When sky conditions are favourable, the views are outstanding.
The northern half of the trail is very flat and easy for walking, it winds through forested and some exposed parts. There are a few places with tables to rest and public toilets. You'll also find a couple of places to link up with other trails such as the Pottinger Road and Gap north of the final descend into Big Wave Bay.
Overall, Dragon's Back is a good trail. It is accessible, easy to hike, views can be outstanding on clear days. Unfortunately, this means heavy foot traffic as well, particularly on weekends and public holidays. Keep that in mind if planning on including this hike during your time in Hong Kong.
Most begin at the southern end of the trail near Tei Wan Village and make the roughly 8km hike north to Big Wave Bay. Bus route 9 from Shau Kei Wan (MTR Exit A) to Shek O has a drop off at To Tei Wan at the Dragon's Back trailhead. At Big Wave Bay, you can take red minibus to 'Shau Kei Wan' or call in a taxi when ready to head back to the city.
The Dragon's Back Trail is particularly impressive in the southern section where it winds a ridge and provides rewarding views the Shek O Peninsula and sea to the east. To the west, you will be able to see much of the southern side of Hong Kong Island. When sky conditions are favourable, the views are outstanding.
The northern half of the trail is very flat and easy for walking, it winds through forested and some exposed parts. There are a few places with tables to rest and public toilets. You'll also find a couple of places to link up with other trails such as the Pottinger Road and Gap north of the final descend into Big Wave Bay.
Overall, Dragon's Back is a good trail. It is accessible, easy to hike, views can be outstanding on clear days. Unfortunately, this means heavy foot traffic as well, particularly on weekends and public holidays. Keep that in mind if planning on including this hike during your time in Hong Kong.
Written 5 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Mairwen1
United Kingdom8,260 contributions
Apr 2021
An amazing hike. This is one of my two favourite walking trails in Hong Kong. The views from along the ridge are magical and recently in April the Spring wild flowers like dogwood, irises were in bloom as well.
1. STARTING POINT - The trail starts at the To Tei Wan bus stop. From Central, take the Island Line MTR to Shau Kei Wan station. Choose the A3 Exit, which will bring you up at the buses and catch the #9 Shek O bus. You will need to keep an eye out for the right stop. You can try asking the driver to let you know but generally there will be other hikers getting off here also. Recently we caught a taxi instead which is much, much quicker - 20 min & $150HKD. Immediately upon getting off, you will see a wooden sign with a picture of a cartoon-like yellow dragon marking the start and a large wooden map board. There is a handy toilet block here too.
2. LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY - Overall this is an easy and very manageable walk. However it is much easier if you make an early start before it gets too hot. I definitely wouldn’t like to leave it until the middle of the day because so much of the time you are walking in full sun. Allow about 2 - 2.5 hours if you want to finish at Big Wave Bay. Some stamina is required at the beginning where there is a steep climb and the path is mainly all stairs. This is the only difficult part and it brings you up to the main ridge. From then on, the walk is pretty much level, with only gradual ups and downs. Overall, the path is relatively even underfoot but occasionally it can become stony or gravelly parts which can be a bit slippery. I’d recommend running shoes or good steady, covered shoes. Sign-posting is very good and there are distance markers along the way (look for the metal plaques with the image of two perky looking hikers).
3. TAKE WATER, SUNSCREEN & HAT - These are absolute essentials and whilst there are a couple of toilet blocks en route, there is nowhere to re-fuel and buy water or snacks. Take more water than you think you’ll need because you’ll almost certainly end up using it.
4. ALONG THE WAY - This walk is all about the views. For the most part you are walking along the ridge which means that you get the most amazing views. The weather was a little overcast and hazy when we did the walk recently. The views were still amazing, but when we have done it before on a bright, clear day, they are phenomenal.
5. FINISHING AT SHEK O - There is a point where you can take the looped path and return to the bus stop at the start but I’ve never done this. We have always continued on to Big Wave Bay, where there’s a beautiful beach and village. It’s about an extra 3km to take this path but well worth it and for me, this is always one of the highlights.
1. STARTING POINT - The trail starts at the To Tei Wan bus stop. From Central, take the Island Line MTR to Shau Kei Wan station. Choose the A3 Exit, which will bring you up at the buses and catch the #9 Shek O bus. You will need to keep an eye out for the right stop. You can try asking the driver to let you know but generally there will be other hikers getting off here also. Recently we caught a taxi instead which is much, much quicker - 20 min & $150HKD. Immediately upon getting off, you will see a wooden sign with a picture of a cartoon-like yellow dragon marking the start and a large wooden map board. There is a handy toilet block here too.
2. LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY - Overall this is an easy and very manageable walk. However it is much easier if you make an early start before it gets too hot. I definitely wouldn’t like to leave it until the middle of the day because so much of the time you are walking in full sun. Allow about 2 - 2.5 hours if you want to finish at Big Wave Bay. Some stamina is required at the beginning where there is a steep climb and the path is mainly all stairs. This is the only difficult part and it brings you up to the main ridge. From then on, the walk is pretty much level, with only gradual ups and downs. Overall, the path is relatively even underfoot but occasionally it can become stony or gravelly parts which can be a bit slippery. I’d recommend running shoes or good steady, covered shoes. Sign-posting is very good and there are distance markers along the way (look for the metal plaques with the image of two perky looking hikers).
3. TAKE WATER, SUNSCREEN & HAT - These are absolute essentials and whilst there are a couple of toilet blocks en route, there is nowhere to re-fuel and buy water or snacks. Take more water than you think you’ll need because you’ll almost certainly end up using it.
4. ALONG THE WAY - This walk is all about the views. For the most part you are walking along the ridge which means that you get the most amazing views. The weather was a little overcast and hazy when we did the walk recently. The views were still amazing, but when we have done it before on a bright, clear day, they are phenomenal.
5. FINISHING AT SHEK O - There is a point where you can take the looped path and return to the bus stop at the start but I’ve never done this. We have always continued on to Big Wave Bay, where there’s a beautiful beach and village. It’s about an extra 3km to take this path but well worth it and for me, this is always one of the highlights.
Written 2 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Leonhkny
Hong Kong, China12,332 contributions
Nov 2021
Dragon's Back is one of the most famous hiking paths in Hong Kong and even in Asia. The relatively pleasant walk around the southern tip of Hong Kong Island offers a panorama of the city as well as the view of sea to sky. The pathway is well maintained and suitable for most hikers. The best time to visit is early morning, preferably during weekdays to avoid the often huge crowd. Bus 9 conveniently connects both ends of Dragon's Back with Shaukiwan.
Written 20 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Marc Yeh
Hong Kong, China1 contribution
Oct 2021 • Couples
My girlfriend and I loves hiking on Dragon's Back during weekends as it's the only time we get days off from work and it's always a lovely experience!
Written 12 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Wai Man C
Hong Kong, China3 contributions
Oct 2020
It is one of the easiest hike for me and I was able to bring my two dogs with me, to enjoy the view and took some nice photos :)
Written 4 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Holly M
3 contributions
Hi There, from what I understand there is a toilet at the beginning and end of this trail but I have an over active bladder and cant hold on for long periods of time - are there any points along the way where hiding behind a bush would be suitable?
Also for a reasonably healthy person how long would you expect this walk to take?
Thanks :D
mu12018
6 contributions
Hi, sorry for my late answer but I haven't checked my Messages. Yes there are several chances to "solve your problem". Hope you have as much Fun as I had there. Cheers Michael
royalpea
Hong Kong, China35 contributions
Hi I'm planning to back carry my kid (7 months old). Is it a good idea? How long did you take to complete the hike and are there good spots to rest along the way? Thanks!!
Kate HP
Brisbane, Australia44 contributions
Hi Royalpea, if you are comfortable carrying your child and have practiced on other hikes i would say ok, but i am not an expert in that department. It is a real hike on uneven dirt tracks not on a paved path. We had daypacks and umbrellas. It took us a few hours and there were a couple of resting spots, but not sheltered and only one porta loo at the beginning, then again just before we took the path down to the beach. There were toilets and showers down at the beach. Hope this helps alittle.
Hi I’m just wondering if it’s okay to wear a short to hike at Dragon’s Back in beginning of January 2019 or should I wear something else? Thank you!!
josyc
Singapore50 contributions
It depends on your tolerance for wind & cold. I think Jan could be on the cooler side, and when you're up on the peak, you're pretty much exposed to the elements. If you're only up there for a couple of minutes, then it could be fine. But if you plan to stay there to enjoy the view, take lots of photographs, etc, then it might make sense to wear long pants.
Kimberley C
1 contribution
Do you have to book a tour for this walk?
Tell.me.AE
Singapore, Singapore38 contributions
No need. Just Google instructions on how to get to the starting point. Relatively easy to get there and most on the bus are heading there too.
The trail path is pretty straight forward
Nicole G
1 contribution
hello i am from malaysia. is it okay if I go there by my own without a tour guide?
Ian B
11 contributions
Absolutely. Hong Kong is a very safe place, despite what you may have seen or read in the media recently.
However, i would recommend that you take a map with you. don’t just rely on your phone to help you navigate.
lizzf
Tauranga, New Zealand6 contributions
Any impact on the tracks following the Typhoon?
Caroline S
31 contributions
Afternoon, I went this morning and the dragons back is all cleared. On the decent into the beach there are fallen trees that you have to climb over. The beach itself has borne the brunt of the typhoon as there are broken trees, toilets out of order, and lots cordoned off.
tshihabi
Dubai, United Arab Emirates3 contributions
Is it ok for 5 years old kid to join?
KLeongV
Singapore, Singapore153 contributions
I will say it depends on fitness and readiness of the kid.
I suppose, fitness wise, you can always rest and take your time to let your young one be part of this hike.
Readiness wise, there are certain parts of the hike one need to keep the kid close to you as this is still a hill after all.
Laura M
1 contribution
which cemetary did you go to? I am planning to go in a couple days and would like to do the steps but many cemetaries surround the base, all walkable from the train station. Thanks!
H L
Roanoke, VA60 contributions
Cape Collinson Catholic Cemetery. If you Google "catholic cemetary starting dragon back", you will get blog posts on how to navigate the cemetery to Dragon's Back.
Maisy D
Chilliwack, Canada7 contributions
Is it a 2-3 hour hike each way? Is there a bus or anything to take from Big Wave Beach? I'd like to take my children but am unsure if they could do it both ways. They are 3 and 5 (almost 6) years old. I would bring a carrier for the 3 year old.
Anne B
Kelowna, Canada24 contributions
Hello ! Its about a 3 hour hike in total at a leisurely pace 😊 yes take the star ferry to the Hong Kong side then the 9 bus takes you right there - everyone is getting off at the same place however you can ask the bus driver to alert you. At big wave beach a shuttle or the same bus takes you back. And you can use your Octopus card for all the busses and ferries ! So easy 😊
Dragon's Back (Hong Kong) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Dragon's Back
- Dragon's Back is open:
- Sun - Sat 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
- We recommend booking Dragon's Back tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 Dragon's Back tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Dragon's Back:
- (5.49 km) Lanson Place Waterfront Suites, Hong Kong
- (9.16 km) The Upper House
- (7.38 km) Nina Hotel Causeway Bay
- (8.61 km) The St. Regis Hong Kong
- (9.70 km) Hotel ICON
- Restaurants near Dragon's Back:
- (1.08 km) Happy Garden
- (7.75 km) Cruise Restaurant & Bar
- (1.07 km) Black Sheep
- (7.64 km) Big Boils Club
- (0.97 km) Reminisces
- Attractions near Dragon's Back:
- (1.12 km) Shek O Beach
- (8.67 km) MTR
- (9.98 km) Star Ferry
- (3.49 km) MingCha Tea House
- (9.79 km) Hong Kong Skyline