Best Places to View the Sunrise in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s stunning skyline, rugged mountains, and coastal beauty make it a fantastic place to watch the sunrise. Whether you’re looking for an easy viewpoint or a challenging hike, here are the best spots to catch the first light of the day.

1. Victoria Peak (The Peak)

• Why Go? One of Hong Kong’s most iconic spots, The Peak offers a panoramic view of the city, Victoria Harbour, and beyond. The sunrise over the skyscrapers is breathtaking.

• How to Get There:

  • Take a taxi or drive to the Peak Galleria.

  • Hike up via the Morning Trail from Mid-Levels (about 1 hour).

• Best Viewing Spot: Lugard Road Lookout – a short, flat walk from Peak Tower with uninterrupted views.

2. Tai Mo Shan

• Why Go? At 957 meters, Tai Mo Shan is the highest mountain in Hong Kong, offering an unmatched sunrise view over misty clouds and rolling hills.

• How to Get There:

  • Take a taxi or drive to the Tai Mo Shan Visitor Centre.

  • Hike up the Tai Mo Shan Road (about 45 minutes).

• Best Viewing Spot: Near the summit or at Lead Mine Pass.

3. Lantau Peak

• Why Go? The second-highest peak in Hong Kong (934m), Lantau Peak offers a spectacular sunrise above the sea and rolling mountains.

• How to Get There:

  • Start the hike from Ngong Ping (about 2.5 hours to the summit).

  • Take an early bus or stay overnight at Ngong Ping to start the hike before dawn.

• Best Viewing Spot: The summit of Lantau Peak.

4. Sunset Peak

• Why Go? Despite its name, Sunset Peak (869m) is also one of the best places to watch the sunrise, with stunning golden grass fields and mountain views.

• How to Get There:

  • Start from Pak Kung Au (bus stop along Tung Chung Road).

  • Hike up the Lantau Trail (about 2 hours).

• Best Viewing Spot: The stone huts along the ridge or the summit.

5. Sai Wan (Sai Kung)

• Why Go? A coastal sunrise over clear blue waters and pristine beaches. Perfect for those who prefer an easy, scenic spot.

• How to Get There:

  • Take a taxi or hike from Sai Kung to Sai Wan Pavilion.

  • Walk to Sai Wan Beach (about 40 minutes).

• Best Viewing Spot: The beach itself or the nearby cliffs.

6. Cape D’Aguilar

• Why Go? A dramatic coastal sunrise with rugged cliffs, sea caves, and an old lighthouse. Ideal for photographers.

• How to Get There:

  • Take a taxi or minibus from Shau Kei Wan to Cape D’Aguilar Road.

  • Walk for about 45 minutes to the coast.

• Best Viewing Spot: Near the lighthouse or on the rocky coastline.

7. High West

• Why Go? A hidden gem with a perfect mix of city skyline and mountain views, offering a unique sunrise experience.

• How to Get There:

  • Start from The Peak or hike via Hatton Road from Mid-Levels (about 1.5 hours).

• Best Viewing Spot: The summit of High West.

8. Lion Rock

• Why Go? One of the most famous hiking trails in Hong Kong, Lion Rock provides a stunning sunrise view over Kowloon and Victoria Harbour.

• How to Get There:

  • Start the hike from Wong Tai Sin or Sha Tin Pass Road (about 1.5 hours).

• Best Viewing Spot: The summit of Lion Rock.

Tips for Watching the Sunrise in Hong Kong

• Check the Sunrise Time – It varies throughout the year, so plan accordingly.

• Bring a Headlamp – If you’re hiking in the dark, a good light source is essential.

• Wear Proper Gear – Some hikes can be steep, so wear good hiking shoes.

• Pack Water & Snacks – Especially for longer hikes.

• Check the Weather – Cloudy days can block the sunrise view.

No matter which spot you choose, watching the sunrise in Hong Kong is always a magical experience!