As the cooler winter air arrives, offering a welcome respite from the humidity, Hong Kong transforms into a haven for nature lovers seeking a vibrant spectacle. Forget the concrete jungle – a short journey beyond the city limits reveals a breathtaking display of crimson, gold, and amber hues, specifically the stunning red leaves that adorn the landscape. From December to January next year, the hillsides and parks come alive with these vibrant colours, offering a welcome escape and stunning photo opportunities for red-leaf-viewing enthusiasts.
To stay informed about foliage status, be sure to check the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department's (AFCD) 2026 Leaf Colour Index, which is updated every Friday and categorises leaves into five stages: red, starting to turn red, yellow, green, and leaf drop.
Recommended red leaves viewing locations for winter 2026
Yuen Long Tai Tong Sweet Gum Woods
Located within Tai Lam Country Park, Tai Tong is Hong Kong's most renowned red leaves destination. During the winter, the rows of Sweet Gum trees along the paths gradually turn red, forming a striking corridor of seasonal colour. The AFCD provides a dedicated "Tai Tong Red Leaves Index" to help visitors identify the optimal time to view the red leaves. Sweet Gum leaves are palm-shaped with three lobes and emit a subtle fragrance when crushed.
- Getting There: Take the MTR to Long Ping Station, then the K66 bus to Tai Tong Shan Road. A scenic walk along Tai Tong Shan Road will lead you to the Sweet Gum Woods. Alternatively, take a red minibus from Hung Min Wai in Yuen Long or the KMB 68R bus from Yuen Long Yoho Mall directly to Tai Tong.
Lau Shui Heung Red Leaves (Pat Sin Leng Country Park)
Known for its tranquil waters and reflective "mirror lake" effect, Lau Shui Heung is famous for its bald cypress trees, which turn from yellow to orange-red in winter. On clear, windless mornings—particularly between 8:00 and 9:00 AM—the still water creates perfect reflections, making it a favourite among photographers. The route from the drop-off point is primarily flat and takes about 20 minutes on foot, suitable for all ages.
- Getting There: Take the MTR to Fanling Station (Exit C), then the 52B minibus to the junction of Lau Shui Heung Road and Hok Tau Road. Follow the signs to Lau Shui Heung Reservoir.
Wu Kau Tang (Northeast New Territories)
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the secluded beauty of Wu Kau Tang, a perfect spot for red leaf viewing. This hidden gem offers a tranquil retreat, with a small grove of vibrant red Sweet Gum trees nestled near the historic Hakka village of Kau Tam Tso.
- Getting There: Take the 20R minibus from Tai Po Market Railway Station to Wu Kau Tang Village.
Tsing Yi Park
As an easily accessible urban red-leaf-viewing spot, Tsing Yi Park features European-style landscaping with bald cypress trees planted along an artificial lake. In winter, these trees turn golden to russet red, creating a picturesque contrast against the modern city backdrop. The park provides a serene setting for a shorter visit.
- Getting There: Take the MTR to Tsing Yi Station (Exit C).
(Editor: Rachel Liu)
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