Hong Kong Park was opened in May 1991, it covers an area of 80,000 square metres and is an example of modern design and amenity, harmoniously complementing the natural landscape.
During the colonial period, from about 1841, the area was called Cantonment Hill. At its upper end were placed the Victoria Barracks, their construction took place between 1867 and 1910. The areas they occupied were handed over to the city government in 1979. Until 1988, the landscape-architectural complex housed the buildings of the Glenelie Junior School. After the school moved, the entire area was turned into a park.
The development of the park was a corporate project of the City Council and the Royal Hong Kong Jockey Club. Thanks to their efforts, several historic buildings have been preserved in the area. Among them is Flagstaff, a structure built in 1846, which has housed a hotel since 1984 and today houses the Tea House Museum. A number of old buildings of the former Victoria Barracks have survived, for example - Cassels Building (early 20th century), where barracks were set up for British officers and their wives; since 1992 it has housed the Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre. Rawlinson House (also early 20th century) houses the Park Authority. These buildings are considered valuable historical and cultural heritage of the country.
With its large number of plants and trees, Hong Kong Park is an essential oasis of calm in a busy metropolis. It is characterised by the Edward Yud aviaries, the largest bird sanctuary in Hong Kong. The most convenient way to view the birds is from the suspended walkways. Hong Kong Park also has greenhouses with permanent and temporary displays of flowering plants. There are also many modern gardens, including the Garden Plaza and the Taijiquan Garden.
For lovers of outdoor activities, the park has a sports field and squash hall.
