Hike up Mount Parker in Hong Kong & Savor Adorable Panda Curry

Text & Photos /TravelBAG

It’s the weekend again, and if you’re tired of the usual routine of shopping, movies, and dining out, why not find a breath of fresh air to break the monotony? Surprisingly, there are great spots for a nature walk and hike right in the city—like Mount Parker in Quarry Bay on Hong Kong Island’s eastern side. Even those who rarely hit the trails can take on this challenge, and as someone who doesn’t exercise much, I found it surprisingly manageable. After the hike, grab a bite along Binhai Street or King’s Road to wrap up your perfect weekend getaway.

The entrance to the Parkview Nature Trail of Mount Parker is right across from the Quarry Bay Library. With large, clear signage, it’s very easy to find. As you walk along the trail, although the mountain scenery may be rather ordinary, the tranquility helps you settle your mind—listen to the birdsong and breathe in the scent of the grassy slopes. Between March and April, you might even spot some calla lilies too.

In the first half of the trail, you’ll come across a small brick-red house. Actually, it’s a historic Grade II building over a hundred years old—the Wilson House, originally the dormitory for European staff of the Taikoo Sugar Refinery. In 2002, it was revitalized into the Wilson Nature Education Centre, a free facility open to the public.

The center focuses on biodiversity, covering flora and fauna from land, sea, and air, and features three exhibition zones. Among them, you can even see traces of the Hong Kong warty newt—a rare sight. Of course, to add more fun, there’s also a motion-sensing game zone and a photo area, allowing visitors to learn about biology in an engaging way while taking memorable photos.

After cooling off at the red house, continue your “expedition.” Along the nature trail, there are many spots where you can view the urban landscape of Tai Koo below Mount Parker. Of course, the higher you climb, the more expansive the view becomes.

If you have time, bring some barbecue gear and enjoy a BBQ at one of the first, second, or third barbecue areas here. Eating in the midst of nature definitely adds extra flavor.

But of course, I had to find the best hidden scenic spot for you all. Remember, after reaching “Picnic Site P7,” take the small path nearby and you’ll reach this most picturesque secret spot.

From here, you can enjoy views of the entire Tai Koo area, Victoria Harbour, and even as far as Kwun Tong in Kowloon across the water—offering an amazing panoramic view. Plus, switching your phone to vintage mode lets you snap some artsy, retro-style photos. Check out my shots...

After enjoying some quiet time in the mountains, it’s time to head back down to the bustling city—and it’s time to “fill your stomach”! This time, I’ve picked two unique restaurants for you to choose from.

The first is “Zuowang,” a curry shop located on Binhai Street, opened by a Japanese owner. Their specialty lies in serving every curry dish with eight or more types of fresh vegetables as sides, giving a sense of balanced nutrition—refreshing and healthy. Their signature “15-Veggie Daily Curry Rice” and “Pork Cartilage Veggie Curry Rice” are especially popular with customers.

This time, I tried the Pork Cartilage Veggie Curry Rice. The pork cartilage, simmered for seven hours, is tender and melts in your mouth, priced at HKD 69. The meal also comes with a complimentary iced or hot tea.

Zuowang
Address: G/F, Chung Hing Building, 13 Binhai Street, Quarry Bay
Tel: 2668 6613
Hours: 11:00–15:00, 18:00–21:30; Sundays 11:30–15:00, 18:00–21:00
Price: HKD 69

The other is Red Ball Dessert, located on King’s Road. Don’t let the name fool you—it’s not just a dessert shop. Their signature item is the “Japanese Curry Panda Rice,” beloved by ladies. Ever seen cute little black-and-white “pandas” on your plate (even if eating them seems a bit cruel, lol)?

Red Ball’s panda curry features rice balls shaped like adorable pandas, served with sweet Japanese-style curry—an innovative and fun twist. Lunchtime usually sees long queues, so I recommend visiting on the weekend instead.

Red Ball Dessert
Address: Shop B1, G/F, Block D, Elegance Court, 901 King’s Road, Quarry Bay
Tel: 2601 9201
Hours: Mon–Fri 12:00–23:00, Sat–Sun 14:30–23:00
Price: HKD 60, includes salad and dessert with each meal.
Website:www.facebook.com/redbeandessert

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