Victoria Park

Located on the north of Hong Kong Island, this expanse of greenery is a popular spot with both visitors and locals and is the site of many of the city’s debates, forums, fairs and events.Victoria Park boasts a running track and large outdoor pool, as well as a fun children’s zoo with small birds and reptiles. At the main entrance to the park, you’ll see the imposing statue of Queen Victoria, the British monarch who the park is named after.As each new day dawns, Victoria Park starts to fill with joggers, walkers and people practising tai chi, one of Hong Kong’s favourite ways of keeping fit. At the weekend, you may see an outdoor martial arts class too. If you want to sign up for tai chi classes, the Hong Kong Tourism Board organises free classes for beginners – check the website for more information.Victoria Park plays host to a number of big events throughout the year, including the hugely popular Lunar New Year Fair, with flowers and fruit being sold late into the night. In March, the Hong Kong Flower Show is held there and each 4th June, the park is the site of the memorial service for the victims of Tiananmen Square. If you’re here in September, don’t miss the Mid-Autumn Festival, when the park is illuminated by beautiful Chinese lanterns.The informative City Forum takes place every Sunday, an event where politicians, academics and public figures come together to debate and discuss local and international affairs. The City Forum is broadcast on Radio Television Hong Kong. Watch out for the “Uncles of Victoria Park”. These elderly men gather outside the forum venue and shout pro-Beijing slogans. Located between Tin Hau MTR and Causeway Bay MTR, the best way to get to Victoria Park is to take the metro to Causeway Bay Station, take Exit E and walk along Great George Street. Alternatively, get off at Tin Hau Station and take Exit A2.