Next to the majestic St. John`s Cathedral, in the very heart of Hong Kong`s business district, lies Cheung Kong Park – a small but remarkably picturesque natural oasis. Surrounded by skyscrapers, this park creates a striking contrast with the urban landscape, offering visitors tranquility, shade from ancient trees, and lush tropical greenery.
Despite its compact size, the park is thoughtfully designed to provide a sense of seclusion. Thanks to its dense tree canopy, the temperature here is always 2-3°C cooler than on the city streets. The treetops are home to parrots, white-eyes, and bulbuls – their songs constantly fill the air.
Cheung Kong Park preserves stone staircases and railings from the colonial era. Winding pathways meander between the trees, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the greenery while remaining aware of Hong Kong`s glass skyscrapers towering above.
Benches placed beneath the trees invite visitors to rest during lunch breaks or in the evening. The Park is built on a hillside, creating natural terraces with glimpses of the city between the tree branches.
Cheung Kong Park boasts an impressive variety of tropical plants, including:
- Strangler figs – mighty trees with aerial roots that wrap around trunks
- Chinese banyans – their sprawling canopies create dense shade
- Kapok trees (Ceiba) – with distinctive ribbed trunks
- Livistona palms – tall, with fan-shaped leaves
- Hibiscus – bright red and pink flowers
- Bougainvillea – cascades of purple and orange blooms
- Bird`s nest ferns – large rosettes of vibrant green leaves
- Dendrobium orchids – growing on tree trunks
- Monstera – with huge, intricately split leaves
- Lianas – hanging from branches, creating a true jungle atmosphere
Nearby Attractions
The Cheung Kong Park is surrounded by iconic landmarks:
1. St. John`s Cathedral (50 m) – a neo-Gothic masterpiece
2. Hong Kong Park (300 m) – famous for its aviaries
3. Government House (400 m) – former governor`s residence
4. Peak Tram Station (500 m) – starting point for Victoria Peak
Cheung Kong Park is a true Hong Kong treasure that few tourists know about. It`s the perfect place to escape the city`s hustle and bustle while enjoying the rustle of leaves and birdsong. If you`re visiting St. John`s Cathedral, be sure to turn left from its tower – you`ll discover Cheung Kong Park, a rare opportunity to experience a tropical forest in the heart of the city.
