🎀 【Ribbon Markers】 are a type of “unofficial trail markers” (非官方路標) commonly found in rivers, stream treks, trail forks, or hidden paths in Hong Kong’s wilderness. While they can help hikers find their way, they can also mislead and cause environmental damage, making them a subject of long-standing controversy in the local hiking community. —
📌 Primary Uses
- Temporary Guidance: Ribbons are often tied to tree branches or rocks to help hikers identify directions along unofficial routes.
- Trailblazing Marks: Expedition teams or hiking clubs tie ribbons when exploring stream treks or dense jungles to facilitate their return journey.
- Hazard Warnings: Some ribbons are used to warn others of hazards ahead, such as steep slopes or slippery rock surfaces.
- Gathering Markers: Hiking groups occasionally use ribbons of specific colours to mark gathering points or specify their team’s route.
— In the wilderness of Hong Kong, colourful ribbons can frequently be seen tied to tree branches or stones. These ribbons are not officially installed trail signs, but rather “temporary guidance” (臨時指引) left behind by hikers themselves. Their primary use is to assist in navigating directions, particularly in areas lacking clear signage such as stream treks, hidden paths, or route junctions. For some hikers exploring a trail for the first time, these ribbons act like a “route prompt” (路線提示) that reduces the risk of getting lost. —
Function Pros Cons Temporary Guidance Helps in identifying directions on unofficial paths Can easily mislead; not an official sign Trailblazing Marks Facilitates the return journey for expedition teams Often left behind, becoming litter Hazard Warnings Alerts others to dangerous terrains Unclear messaging; might mislead passersby Gathering Markers Differentiates specific team routes Large quantities cause visual pollution —
⚖️ Coexistence of Utility and Controversy
However, the presence of ribbon markers is not entirely positive. While they can serve as warnings in dangerous areas and even “save a life” (救人一命) during emergencies, they simultaneously spark environmental and safety controversies. Over-reliance on ribbons can lead hikers astray, and plastic ribbons left on trees for extended periods directly violate the “Leave No Trace” (山野不留痕) principle, becoming litter that defaces nature. This paradox of “coexisting convenience and destruction” (方便與破壞並存) makes ribbons one of the most debated symbols in Hong Kong’s hiking culture.
- Environmental Pollution: Plastic ribbons do not decompose easily; lingering in the wild long-term ruins the natural landscape.
- Risk of Misdirection: As ribbons are not official trail markers, they might lure hikers into treacherous terrains or wrong paths.
- Cultural Debate:
- Supporters believe that ribbons can “save a life” by providing orientation when one gets lost.
- Opponents emphasize the “Leave No Trace” philosophy, viewing ribbons as man-made damage.
—
🆚 Comparison of Supporting and Opposing Views
Perspective In Favour of Ribbons Against Ribbons Safety Helps lost hikers find their way, potentially “saving a life” Indicators could be wrong, misleading hikers into dangerous zones Environmental Impact Less destructive compared to blatant littering Plastic is hard to decompose, affecting plant growth Cultural Value Reflects the spirit of mutual help among hikers, shaping a unique hiking culture Violates the “Leave No Trace” principle, defacing nature Usage Style Can be used as temporary markers and cleared by the sweeper afterwards Hung in excessive amounts, even in areas well-equipped with official signage —
✅ Recommendations & Alternative Solutions
- Use Biodegradable Materials: Opt for paper or natural fibres to minimise pollution.
- Temporary Tying and Removal: The lead hiker ties them up, and the sweeper (殿後) removes them, ensuring no litter is left behind.
- Rely on Maps and Technology: Hikers should equip themselves with skills in map reading, compass usage, and GPS tracking.
- Uphold the “Leave No Trace” Principle: Keep the wilderness in its pristine, original state.
—
🌿 Common Cases & Locations
Location Scenario Ham Tin Wan A large volume of blue ribbons once appeared here, which were voluntarily cleaned up by hikers. Lung Shan, Fanling Ribbon markers are commonly spotted at the junctions of unofficial trails. Robin’s Nest (Hung Fa Leng) Lacks official trail signs entirely; some hikers rely on ribbons to navigate their way. Castle Peak Hinterland (Gorge) Hikers once successfully located the descent route at dusk entirely by following ribbons. Lung Shan Ribbons are frequently seen at unofficial trail forks, turning into a flashpoint of controversy. Tai Mo Shan Streams Expedition teams frequently use ribbons to map out directions, which can easily mislead other hikers. Ma On Shan Iron Mine Ruins Certain paths have been mistaken for official routes because explorers tied ribbons along them.
