In a city as tightly-packed as Hong Kong is, every scrap of open space is treasured. That makes Kowloon Park, on the foreshore of the skyscraper-crowded Kowloon peninsula, a real gem. Its 32 acres of gardens, walkways, ornamental ponds and ancient banyan trees provide a perfect refuge from Hong Kong's everyday clamour. Kowloon's residents come here to relax, stroll and even to bird watch – over 100 wild-bird species have been recorded flitting under Kowloon Park's canopies.There are many beautiful gardens within its bounds, including a formal Maze Garden of clipped hedges, a Sculpture Garden and trail, and a Colour Garden, decorated with a mosaic of bright roses. Perhaps the most popular is the Chinese garden, with its cascading waterfalls and still lotus ponds – a delight of feng shui to soothe the soul. Nearby, you'll find some of Hong Kong's famous stonewall trees. These amazing living walls are formed from the roots and branches of the banyan tree, and help secure the city's many tall walls.
But some of the major attractions for visitors to the park are on more on the active side. Much of the northern part of the Park is taken up by a leisure centre, and series of large outdoor pools. Here you can cool off in one of three landscaped pools, welcome relief during the sweltering summer months, or have a go at ping-pong in the air-conditioned sports hall. There are football pitches, a fitness trail and playgrounds for the children.
And if you'd rather stimulate your mind than your body, Kowloon Park has two interesting museums – the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre and the Health Education Exhibition and Resources Centre. The heritage centre is housed in one the buildings of the former Whitfield Barracks, and looks at the city's varied history and architectural heritage. The Heath Education Exhibition is where you can learn about the importance of looking after yourself, through exhibitions on hygiene, food and exercise. Mind, body and soul – Kowloon Park, it seems, can cover them all.
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