The South Side - Hong Kong Island's Backyard

Kyle Johnson explores the south side of Hong Kong Island, a green seaside playground, just minutes away from the concrete jungle Kyle Johnson

Few visitors come to Hong Kong for its natural beauty, simply because they associate Asia's World City with skyscrapers rather than shorelines. Little do they know that the south side of Hong Kong Island, just behind the towering city, is a mountainous green region facing the South China Sea, fit with quite a few interesting sightseeing attractions. An overwhelming contrast to the island's northern side, the south side is a reminder of Hong Kong's origins as a quaint fishing village. The largely residential area along the sea remains primarily preserved as nature intended, mainly due to the lack of MTR connections and limited developments. Dubbed "Hong Kong's French Riviera", the urban escape has more in common with the geography and life style of the Mediterranean than its north side counterpart. Walking paths connect seaside villages, sweeping views overlook green mountains and the ocean, and beach cafes, hikes, parks, and markets attract many visitors.

Aberdeen Floating Village The name Hong Kong literally translates to Fragrant Harbour, and you can see (well, actually smell) why at Aberdeen. Named after the Fourth Earl of Aberdeen, who was Secretary of State for War and the Colonies in the mid-1800s, Aberdeen Harbour forms a typhoon shelter that is home to a floating village of junks, fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and what remains of Hong Kong's "boat people". Free shuttle boats usher visitors on a 30- minute ride from the waterfront to the world's largest floating restaurant, Jumbo Kingdom, while sampan tours are available for private hire. To reach Aberdeen, take bus 7, 70, 71, 91, or 94 from Central Ferry Piers.

Ocean Park Amusements Perched on a stunning hillside overlooking Deepwater Bay near Aberdeen, Ocean Park, Hong Kong oldest amusement park, boasts exciting rides, educational programmes and an up close and personal view of amazing animals. This summer the park welcomes a couple of new additions to the family, two Giant Pandas, given as gifts from Beijing to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. With the Ocean Park Wet 'n Wild Panda Mania, you can meet the pandas and cool down with water games and other splashing activities. Tickets are $185 for adults and $95 for children, available at Ocean Park entrances and Citybus Bus Route 629 near Admiralty MTR exit B.

The Bays The French Riviera comparison rings true at the south side's bays: Deep Water Bay, Repulse Bay and South Bay. High rents, eye-catching vistas, manicured beaches, and barefoot cafes set these three spots apart as top hangouts. While Deep Water Bay and South Bay enjoy picturesque beaches, Repulse Bay is Hong Kong Island's most popular piece of sand, not only for its top-notch beach but also for the famous Repulse Bay "building with a hole" (109 Repulse Bay Road). According to local feng shui legend, the large square hole in the middle of this apartment building was left open to allow wind and Qi to pass between the harbour and the mountain. However, it is believed that the hole is further necessary to allow the dragon, which resides in the mountain, to have an open view and access to the water. You can reach this exclusive area by bus from Exchange Square, routes 6, 6A, 6X, 66, or 260. A raised walkway provides a nice stroll between Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay.

Stanley Village Shopping If you have the time, a day trip to Stanley is a must-do. Sitting on the southeastern peninsula of Hong Kong Island, this seaside village is a happening place. Start the day at Stanley Market, a maze of silk garments, Chinese souvenirs, affordable art, ceramics, and anything else you can think of, to stock up on budget items and presents. Then head to Stanley Main Street for open-air dining and people watching along the watchfront. Almost every type of cuisine is available. Next make your way to Murray House, the former British Army Barracks that was moved here from Central stone by stone, and the Hong Kong Maritine Museum for a lesson in history. End the day at Stanley Prison and the Correctional Services Museum. Take buses 6, 6A, 6X, or 260 from Central (Exchange Square).

Seaside at Shek O Shek O is not the most accessible village on the south of Hong Kong Island, but perhaps that is why it remains so charming. An enclave for the wealthy, Shek O also has a traditional Chinese community feel. The village itself is small enough to walk and is lined with tasty restaurants and beach town shops. The vast beach has golden sand, swimming platforms, a playground, and concrete barbeque pits. Umbrellas, chairs and bicycles are available for hire. Take either bus 9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR (exit A3) or bus 309 from Central (Exchange Square).

Bus Route Destination Stanley Peninsula Citybus route number 6, as well as 6A and 6X, has become an attraction in itself. Travelling from Central (Exchange Square), the route cuts over the mountains to end in Stanley. For astonishing views, choose a window seat on the upper deck. The total trip one-way is $7.9 adult, $4 child. Sit back and enjoy the ride.   Stop No. #14 - Wong Nai Chung Reservoir Park, Wong Nai Chung Gap Road The Wong Nai Chung Gap was actually the site of one of the bloodiest days of fighting in Hong Kong during World War II on 19 December 1941. The Wong Nai Chung Gap Trail runs across the southwest of the island to Aberdeen and Ocean Park. Stop No. #20 - Repulse Bay Beach, Repulse Bay Road Sunbathe at one of Hong Kong's most popular beaches in the upscale community of Repulse Bay. Stop No. #25 - Wilson Trail, Stanley Gap Road Rolling green crescents form the heart of the island countryside. This stop marks the beginning of Wilson Trail, a challenging 78km footpath through Hong Kong. Stop No. #31 - Stanley Village Bus Terminus, Stanley Village Road Alight for shopping and seaside people watching at Stanley Village and Market. Do not miss the historical Murray House on Stanley Main Road.