WHY YOU NEED TO VISIT KOWLOON WALLED CITY PARK

The origins of Kowloon Walled City trace back to the Song Dynasty (960–1279) when the area was first established as a military outpost to manage the salt trade. In 1668, under the Qing Dynasty, the Chinese government built a small fort to defend against foreign invasions and protect the coastline. After the First Opium War (1839–1842), Britain took control of Hong Kong Island, and in 1847, the Qing government reinforced the Walled City with a stronger garrison, an administrative office, and a wall, giving it its name. In 1898, the British leased the New Territories, including the Walled City, for 99 years under the Second Convention of Peking. While Britain controlled the surrounding areas, China still technically held sovereignty over the Walled City. The British attempted to remove the Chinese garrison in 1899, but after facing local resistance, they largely abandoned efforts to govern the area. Over time, the Walled City remained a political anomaly—claimed by China but left largely unregulated by Britain. During World War II (1941-1945), Japan occupied Hong Kong and demolished parts of the Walled City, including its walls, using the materials for Kai Tak Airport expansion. When Japan surrendered in 1945, thousands of squatters moved into the area, marking the beginning of its transformation into a lawless enclave. 

By the 1950s, Kowloon Walled City had become a haven for refugees fleeing Communist China. With no government oversight, it rapidly expanded into a self-contained urban labyrinth. The British and Hong Kong authorities attempted evictions in 1957, but after strong resistance, they gave up and adopted a policy of non-interference. Without regulation, illegal businesses flourished, including unlicensed medical clinics, food production factories, and gambling dens. The Triads, particularly the Sun Yee On and 14K gangs, controlled much of the city in the 1960s-70s, running opium dens, brothels, and counterfeit operations. However, by the 1980s, police crackdowns reduced organized crime’s influence, and the city became more of a functioning, if chaotic, community. At its peak in the 1980s, around 33,000 people lived within just 6.4 acres (2.8 hectares), making it one of the most densely populated places in history. The city operated with little government oversight, leading to a mix of unlicensed doctors, illegal factories, and tight-knit communities that adapted to the chaotic environment. Despite its lawless reputation, many residents lived relatively normal lives, running businesses and raising families. The Hong Kong government demolished the Walled City in the early 1990s, and today, Kowloon Walled City Park stands in its place, featuring historical artifacts and gardens that commemorate its past. 

Getting to Kowloon Walled City Park

Kowloon Walled City Park is located in Kowloon City District, Hong Kong, near the old Kai Tak Airport. Since there is no MTR (subway) station right next to the park, the best way to get there is by bus, minibus, or taxi. If you don't mind walking a bit, the closest MTR station is Lok Fu Station (MTR Kwun Tong Line), Exit B and walk about 15-20 minutes to the park. Take Bus 1, 11D, 75X from Lok Fu Plaza and get off at the Kowloon Walled City Park stop.

Kowloon Walled City Park

Kowloon Walled City Park is a historic and cultural site in Kowloon City District, Hong Kong, built on the former site of Kowloon Walled City, which was demolished in 1993. The park preserves the legacy of the once-notorious, densely packed urban settlement while providing a tranquil, green space for visitors. Opened in 1995, the park blends traditional Chinese garden architecture with historical artifacts from the Walled City. It spans 31,000 square meters (7.6 acres) and is designed in the style of the Jiangnan gardens from the Qing Dynasty. The only remaining structure from the original Walled City, dating back to 1847 when it was used as a Qing Dynasty administrative office. Now serves as an exhibition hall displaying artifacts and history of the Walled City. Excavated remains of the original South Gate, including foundation stones and part of the city wall, giving insight into its early history. 

The park features beautifully landscaped pavilions, ponds, rock gardens, and pathways, each themed around different flowers and plants. A peaceful area representing the four seasons with trees, water features, and classical Chinese landscaping. A scenic spot for visitors to relax and observe people playing Chinese chess (Xiangqi), a popular pastime in Hong Kong. Although the chaotic, high-rise slums of Kowloon Walled City are gone, the park preserves its memory through exhibits, historical markers, and artifacts. It has become a popular tourist attraction, offering a stark contrast to the lawless, hyper-dense community that once stood there. 

Attractions Nearby

Sung Wong Toi Park: 10-minute walk from the park, features the Sung Wong Toi Stone, a historical relic from the Song Dynasty. A peaceful park with historical significance, linked to the last Song emperor’s escape. Walk south from Kowloon Walled City Park toward Sung Wong Toi MTR Station.

Kowloon City Market: 5-minute walk, A traditional Hong Kong wet market with fresh seafood, produce, and meat. The upper floor has a food court with famous local dishes. 

                                 

Try Beef Brisket noodles at Kau Kee, and Thai food, since Kowloon City is known as "Little Thailand". Popular spots in Little Thailand include Thai Chiu and Checkered Flag.

Nan Lian Garden & Chi Lin Nunnery: 10-minute taxi ride or MTR ride to Diamond Hill. A beautiful Tang Dynasty-style garden with traditional Chinese landscaping.

                                

The Chi Lin Nunnery, a wooden Buddhist monastery with serene courtyards. Relaxation, photography, and appreciating Chinese architecture.

                               

Kai Tak Sky Garden: 10 minutes drive, A rooftop garden built on the old Kai Tak Airport runway. Offers great views of Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. Best for: Scenic walks, skyline views, and aviation history fans.

Why Visit Kowloon Walled City Park

Kowloon Walled City Park offers a unique blend of history, culture, and tranquility in the heart of bustling Kowloon. Here’s why this park is worth your time:

Experience the History of the Kowloon Walled City

The park sits on the site of the former Kowloon Walled City, which was once the most densely populated place on Earth, known for its lawless, maze-like architecture. While the original city was demolished in 1993, the park preserves its rich history through exhibitions, preserved ruins, and monuments.

The Yamen (Qing Dynasty administrative office) is the only remaining structure from the Walled City and now serves as a small museum.

                              

Walk Through a Beautiful Classical Chinese Garden

The park is designed in the style of a Jiangnan garden from the Qing Dynasty, featuring pavilions, ponds, rock gardens, and floral pathways. It’s a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Kowloon, offering a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and photography.

See the South Gate Ruins and Historic Artifacts

Remnants of the South Gate and original city walls have been excavated and preserved, allowing visitors to see part of the Walled City’s foundation. There are historical plaques and displays detailing the evolution of the city from a military outpost to an unregulated, high-rise slum.

                              

Learn About One of the Most Infamous Places in Urban History

Kowloon Walled City’s unique lawless yet self-sustaining society has inspired books, documentaries, movies, and even video games. The park features historical panels, old photos, and reconstructed models of the original Walled City, giving visitors an insight into life inside.

Easily Accessible and Free to Enter

The park is centrally located in Kowloon City, making it easy to visit alongside nearby attractions like Kowloon City Market, Cattle Depot Artist Village, and Little Thailand. Admission is free, making it a great budget-friendly attraction in Hong Kong.

                             

Who Should Visit

History lovers – Learn about the fascinating past of the Walled City.

Photographers – The park’s architecture, ruins, and garden make for great photos.

Families & Relaxation Seekers – A peaceful spot away from city noise.

Urban explorers – If you’re interested in abandoned places and urban history, this is a must-see.