High Junk Peak

🎣 High Junk Peak is the highest point on the Clear Water Bay Peninsula and one of the “Three Sharp Peaks of Hong Kong,” famous for its razor-sharp silhouette and breathtaking panoramic views. Standing at 344 meters above sea level, it shares the title of the “Three Sharp Peaks” alongside Sharp Peak and Castle Peak. The mountain gets its Chinese name “Diu Yu Weng” (Angler) because its distinctive shape closely resembles the long beak and body of a kingfisher. It is not only a popular hotspot for geography enthusiasts but also a ultimate bucket-list challenge for hikers.—Standing on the summit of High Junk Peak, a magnificent panoramic vista unfolds before your eyes: looking eastwards captures Clear Water Bay and Steep Island; southwards overlooks Tung Lung Chau and the Lam Tong Channel; westwards peers over Tseung Kwan O and Devil’s Peak; while the north ridge connects to Miu Tsai Tun and Sheung Yeung Shan. A trigonometrical station (triangulation pillar) sits at the peak, offering an expansive view where stunning coastlines meet the city’s skyline. This unique blend of “mountains and seas” makes High Junk Peak one of Hong Kong’s most iconic natural landmarks.—

📍 Fast Facts

Item	Details
Chinese Name	釣魚翁 (Diu Yu Weng)
English Name	High Junk Peak
Location	Sai Kung District, Clear Water Bay Peninsula, Southeastern New Territories
Elevation	Approx. 344–345 meters above sea level
Geology	Volcanic rock
Park Area	Clear Water Bay Country Park
Adjacent Peaks	Miu Tsai Tun to the north, Tin Ha Shan to the south
Key Features	Sharp silhouette, spectacular views; ranked among the “Three Sharp Peaks of Hong Kong” along with Sharp Peak and Castle Peak
Hiking Trail	Approx. 5.5 km, takes around 3 hours
Transport	KMB Bus 91, or Green Minibus 103 / 103M / 16 to Ng Fai Tin
Replenishment	No refuel points along the trail; hikers must bring their own water
Safety Note	The southern slope is covered in loose gravel and sand; warning signs for dangerous cliffs are posted at the entrance

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🐦 Origin of the Name

• The mountain has a sharp, jagged silhouette. When viewed from the side, it closely resembles the long beak and body of a kingfisher (Common Kingfisher, Alcedo atthis).
• Another local lore suggests that the peak looks like an old fisherman wearing a traditional bamboo rain hat (straw cape), hence the name.

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🌄 Summit & Landscapes

• The Peaks Silhouette: Sharp and steep to the north, more rounded to the south. From afar, it looks like a kingfisher or a fisherman in a straw cape, which inspired its name.
• Surrounding Peaks: Connected to Miu Tsai Tun and Sheung Yeung Shan, forming a continuous and beautiful ridgeline.
• A trigonometrical station (triangulation pillar) is located at the summit.
• 360-Degree Views:
  • East: Steep Island (Trio Island), Kau Sai Chau, Jin Island, and Clear Water Bay
  • South: Tin Ha Shan, Tung Lung Chau, and Lam Tong Channel
  • West: Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate, LOHAS Park, Pak Shing Kok, Devil’s Peak, and Chai Wan on the opposite shore
  • North: Miu Tsai Tun, Ha Yeung Shan, and Sheung Yeung Shan

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🚶‍♂️ Hiking Route & Trail Details

Item	Details
運行 Main Trail	High Junk Peak Hiking Trail
📏 Length & Time	Approx. 8 km in total, takes 3–4 hours; rated as a moderate to moderately challenging route
🚍 Getting There (Starting Point)	Ng Fai Tin. Take KMB Bus 91 or Green Minibus 103, 103M, or 16 to arrive
🌳 Highlights Along the Way	Miu Tsai Tun: Surrounded by dense bamboo grooves with a serene trail. Tin Hau Temple at Fat Tong Mun: Dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea (Tin Hau), featuring a 13th-century rock inscription by a visiting government official at the back of the hill. Po Toi O: A well-preserved traditional fishing village where you can enjoy a fresh seafood feast after the hike.
⛰️ Difficulty	The summit section consists of steep scree slopes requiring hands-and-feet scrambling. Hiking shoes with good grip and sufficient water are highly recommended.
💧 Supply	No replenishment points along the trail; you must bring your own drinking water.
⚠️ Warnings	The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has placed “Dangerous Cliff” warning signs at the entrance.

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⭐ Features & Highlights

• The Challenge: Slightly easier than Sharp Peak, but still demands a decent level of fitness and technique. It serves as a perfect “litmus test” for aspiring mountaineers.
• Scenic Value: Features a 360-degree panoramic view where mountains meet the sea, offering sweeping vistas of the Clear Water Bay Peninsula, the Ninepin Group, and the eastern coast of Hong Kong Island.
• Cultural Significance: The name is deeply rooted in its natural topography, blending geographical features with local cultural charm.

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🎒 Safety Code

Category	Safety Rules	Explanation
🥾 Footwear Safety	Wear non-slip hiking shoes/boots	The summit features loose gravel and scree slopes; proper grip prevents slipping
💧 Hydration	Bring sufficient drinking water (at least 1.5–2 liters)	There are no refuel points along the trail; you must be self-sufficient
🌞 Sun Protection	Apply sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses	The ridgeline is fully exposed to intense UV rays with little shade
🕒 Time Management	Set off in the morning to avoid the afternoon heat or getting caught in the dark	The entire journey takes about 3–4 hours
📱 Communication	Bring a fully charged smartphone and a power bank	Essential for navigation and emergency contacts
🩹 First Aid	Pack band-aids, bandages, and antiseptic wipes	To treat minor cuts, scrapes, or scratches
🚫 Hazardous Sections	The southern trail is extremely sandy and loose; scrambling is required	Proceed with extreme caution and do not take unnecessary risks
⚠️ Official Warnings	AFCD “Dangerous Cliff” signs are placed at the trail entrance	Hikers must strictly abide by the safety warnings
👥 Buddy System	Hike with a partner; avoid hitting the trail alone	Ensures an extra layer of safety and mutual support

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✨ Pro-Tips

• The final climb to the summit involves steep, loose gravel slopes. You will need to scramble using both hands and feet; bringing hiking poles for extra stability is highly recommended.
• Check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid hiking during heavy rain, thunderstorms, or strong gale-force winds.
• The entire hike takes about 3–4 hours. It is best to start in the morning to beat the scorching midday heat.