Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens

Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens

Highlights

1. Its biggest highlight is that besides housing the largest greenhouse in Southeast Asia with dual climate control, which displays over 2,000 rare plant species, it also keeps more than 100 species of wild birds, including some that are endangered. 2. It is an excellent spot to view the former Governor’s Residence.

Introduction

Opened in 1864, it is the largest botanical and avian park in Hong Kong. Temporarily serving as the Governor’s Residence, it is commonly known as Government Hill Garden and covers an area of 5.35 hectares. The park features a wide variety of flora and fauna and was established in the 19th century. It is divided into two sections: the Main Garden houses bird species, with nearly 1,000 birds from 280 species, most of which are endangered; the New Garden is home to carnivorous and mammalian animals, such as jaguars, red-cheeked gibbons, golden snub-nosed monkeys, red-throated squirrels, porcupines, black ferrets, and Bornean orangutans. There are over 550 varieties of horticultural plants, including trees, palms, and shrubs, plus a medicinal plant garden showcasing common Chinese herbs. The Fountain Garden, reconstructed in 1985, is surrounded by seasonal flowers. Next to the large fountain pool, there are over 230 types of medicinal plants. When the fountain is in operation, the water jets are a spectacular sight.

Transportation

1. Take bus 3B or 12 outside Jardine House on Central, or take bus 13 at Edinburgh Place to the Caritas Centre on Caine Road.

2. Take bus 23, 23A, 23B, 40, or 40M outside Pacific Place in Admiralty, or take bus 12M from the Admiralty (Tamar Street) Bus Terminus to the Caritas Centre on Caine Road.

Central and Western District, Hong Kong