🏔️【Kao Lao Fung (果老峰)】 is an integral part of the Pat Sin Leng mountain range. Situated in the northeastern New Territories of Hong Kong, it stands at an elevation of 543 meters, making it the second-highest peak within the range. Named after Zhang Guolao, one of the Eight Immortals in Taoist mythology, the summit falls under the protective boundaries of Pat Sin Leng Country Park. From the peak of Kao Lao Fung, hikers can soak in breathtaking panoramic views of Tolo Harbour while looking out across adjacent notable summits such as Shun Yeung Fung and Chung Li Fung, which together shape a magnificent undulating ridgeline. —
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🧙♂️ In-Depth Guide to Kao Lao Fung
📌 Key Information
- Chinese Name: 果老峰 (Kao Lao Fung)
- English Name: Kao Lao Fung
- Elevation: 543 meters
- Location: Northeastern New Territories; managed within Pat Sin Leng Country Park
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🧘 Origin of the Name
Kao Lao Fung is named after Zhang Guolao, arguably the most eccentric and mysterious figure among the Taoist Eight Immortals. He is famously depicted riding his white donkey backwards, a quirky habit symbolizing counter-intuitive thinking and the path to immortality. Renowned for mastering the arts of longevity and inner alchemy, folklore claims he could become invisible or change shapes at will, embodying deep wisdom and an otherworldly detachment from worldly affairs. Symbolic Meaning: Journeying against the grain, transcending conventional norms, and pursuing spiritual liberation. —
🌄 Scenic and Natural Highlights
- Spectacular Vistas: Scaling Kao Lao Fung treats hikers to an incredibly expansive view overlooking Tolo Harbour and the Shuen Wan Plover Cove Reservoir.
- Ridgeline Connection: Nestled directly between Kuai Li Fung and Chung Li Fung, it forms a crucial link along the spine of Pat Sin Leng.
- Natural Environment:
- During autumn and winter, the trails are blanketed with silvergrass in full bloom, cementing its reputation as one of Hong Kong’s premier silvergrass viewing corridors.
- The mountain paths consist primarily of stone steps and rugged dirt trails, well-equipped with distance posts and signages, best suited for experienced hikers.
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🗺 Recommended Hiking Itinerary
🧭 Wilson Trail Section 9
- Starting Point: Tai Mei Tuk
- Ascend via Sin Kwu Fung → Sheung Tsz Fung → Choi Wo Fung → Tsao Kau Fung → Kuai Li Fung
- Reach the summit of Kao Lao Fung, then forge ahead toward Chung Li Fung and Shun Yeung Fung
- End Point: Hok Tau Reservoir
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🧭 Overview of the Eight Peaks of Pat Sin Leng
Peak Name (Chinese) Elevation Corresponding Immortal Sin Kwu Fung 511m He Xiangu Sheung Tsz Fung 513m Han Xiangzi Choi Wo Fung 489m Lan Caihe Tsao Kau Fung 489m Cao Guojiu Kuai Li Fung 522m Iron Crutch Li (Tie Guaili) Kao Lao Fung 543m Zhang Guolao Chung Li Fung 551m Zhongli Quan (Han Zhongli) Shun Yeung Fung 590m Lu Dongbin (Shunyeung Zi) —
