Best Running Routes in Hong Kong: From Harbour to Trails

Running in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the best running cities in Asia, and arguably the world. Within a single run, you can go from skyscrapers to jungle, from waterfront promenades to mountain ridgelines. The variety is extraordinary. Flat, traffic-free paths for easy jogs. Steep climbs for hill training. Technical trails for those who want to get seriously off-road.

The main challenge is heat and humidity. From May to October, temperatures often exceed 30 degrees Celsius with humidity above 80%. During these months, early morning runs (before 7am) or evening runs (after 7pm) are strongly recommended. The rest of the year, the running conditions are near perfect — cool, dry air with clear skies.

Flat Waterfront Routes

Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront Promenade

This is arguably the most scenic flat run in the city. Starting from the Star Ferry pier in Tsim Sha Tsui, the promenade stretches east along the harbourfront past the Avenue of Stars, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and toward Hung Hom. The views of the Hong Kong Island skyline are spectacular, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Distance: approximately 3.5 km one way (7 km out and back). Surface: paved. The path is wide, well-lit, and flat. Morning runs here are magical — you will have the promenade almost to yourself before 7am.

Kennedy Town to Cyberport Promenade

This western waterfront path is newer and less crowded than the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade. It runs along the waterfront from Kennedy Town through Sai Wan, past the University of Hong Kong, and toward Sandy Bay and Cyberport. The views look out toward Green Island and the western harbour.

Distance: approximately 4 km one way. Surface: paved. Mostly flat with a few gentle inclines. There are public toilets and water fountains along the route.

Quarry Bay to Shau Kei Wan Promenade

The eastern waterfront along Hong Kong Island is a smooth, wide path popular with local runners and cyclists. Start at Quarry Bay Park and head east along the harbourfront toward Sai Wan Ho and Shau Kei Wan. The path passes through several waterfront parks.

Distance: approximately 3 km one way. Surface: paved and flat. Well-lit for evening runs.

Tai Po to Sha Tin Cycling Path

In the New Territories, the cycling and running path along the Shing Mun River from Tai Po to Sha Tin is one of the longest continuous flat routes in Hong Kong. The path follows the river and passes through parks, wetlands, and residential areas. It is wide enough to accommodate both runners and cyclists comfortably.

Distance: approximately 12 km one way. Surface: paved and flat. Start from Tai Po Waterfront Park (accessible from Tai Po Market MTR) or Sha Tin Park (Sha Tin MTR).

Hill and Scenic Loop Routes

Bowen Road

Bowen Road is the classic expat running route. This traffic-free path contours along the hillside between Mid-Levels and Happy Valley, offering filtered views of the harbour through tropical vegetation. The path is shaded, mostly flat (with some gentle undulations), and blissfully car-free.

Distance: approximately 4 km one way from Bowen Drive (above Wan Chai) to Magazine Gap Road (above Central). You can combine it with Lover's Rock Path or extend down to Happy Valley Racecourse for a longer run. The total Bowen Road loop via Stubbs Road and Magazine Gap Road is roughly 6-7 km.

The Peak Circle Walk

Lugard Road and Harlech Road form a loop around the summit of Victoria Peak. The path is paved and gently undulating, with panoramic views of the harbour, Kowloon, and the outlying islands. This is one of the most beautiful short runs in the world.

Distance: approximately 3.5 km for the full loop. Access: take the Peak Tram or bus 15 to The Peak, or run up from Central via the Morning Trail for a serious hill workout (about 3 km with 400m of elevation gain).

Happy Valley Racecourse Track

The Happy Valley Racecourse has a public running track that circles the horse racing track. It is flat, lit at night, and free to use on non-race days. The surface is a rubberised track, which is easier on the joints than pavement.

Distance: approximately 1.3 km per lap. Access: Happy Valley MTR station exit A. The track is open early morning and evening.

Trail Runs

Dragon's Back

Dragon's Back is Hong Kong's most famous trail and was once named the best urban hike in Asia by Time magazine. The trail runs along a ridge between Shek O and Big Wave Bay, with views of the South China Sea, Shek O village, and the Tai Tam area. The terrain is a mix of steps, packed earth, and rocky sections.

Distance: approximately 8.5 km point to point. Elevation gain: about 300m. Access: start at To Tei Wan (bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan) and finish at Big Wave Bay or Shek O. Allow 1.5-2.5 hours depending on pace.

Wilson Trail Section 1

This section runs from Stanley Gap Road to Quarry Bay via Violet Hill and the Twins. It is a serious trail run with significant elevation gain and steep descents. The reward is sweeping views of the south side and the harbour.

Distance: approximately 10 km. Elevation gain: about 600m. This is a challenging route best suited for experienced trail runners.

Tai Tam Reservoir Road

For an easier trail run, the road around Tai Tam Reservoir is a scenic, mostly flat route through dense forest. The paved road is closed to traffic and passes several historic reservoirs and dams. It feels surprisingly remote given how close it is to the city.

Distance: approximately 5 km loop. Access: various entry points from Parkview, Wong Nai Chung Gap, or Tai Tam Road.

Tips for Running in Hong Kong

Hydrate aggressively in summer. The humidity is no joke. Carry water even on short runs from May to October.
Start early. Beat the heat and the crowds by running before 7am.
Use the Strava app. Hong Kong's running community is active on Strava, and you can discover popular routes and segments.
Join a running group. Wan Chai Warriors, Hong Kong Road Runners Club, and various parkrun events are great for meeting fellow runners.
Watch for wildlife on trails. Snakes, wild boar, and monkeys are all present on Hong Kong trails. They are generally not dangerous if you give them space.
Carry your phone. Cell coverage is excellent even on most trails, which is reassuring for solo runs.