Exploring Po Hong Park

By Arlene Abrugar

For people in Hong Kong, the trees and lush
garden make Po Hong Park a paradise in the city.

The weather was perfect for an afternoon walk. As the wind caressed my cheeks I trekked down  an unfamiliar path of thick greenery  and curved paths. There were a few runners, bikers, as well as brisk walkers like me, trying to make the most of a great day.

I took this walk during my last few days in Hong Kong, where life balance is vital to one’s well-being. To keep our equilibrium in this place where life is always lived on the fast lane, it is important for us to maintain our solitary compartment; unmoved and unspoiled, it helps keep us  calm and collected, especially when faced with adversity.

A visit to a nearby park is always a stress-buster.  Over the years that I had worked in Hong Kong, I became very appreciative of its recreational parks, which often come complete with sports facilities and amenities.

Right now, I am in Po Hong Park, which is just a 15-minute walk from our flat.  This park is huge, covering an area of 4.13 hectares, and is located at number 10, Wan Lung Road in Tseung Kwan-O. It officially opened to the public in 1997.

During Sundays and public holidays, locals mingle with foreign domestic helpers who choose to spend their rest day in this park, which is a perfect place to unwind and to get away from all worries, at least for a day.

It has a lot to offer: football and soccer pitches, a basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court, eight play areas for kids, two fitness spots for the elderly, a roller skating rink, plus well-manicured gardens. All facilities are open 24 hours a day, except for the hard-surface pitches, gateball court and skating rink which all operate from 7am to 11pm.

The elderly people in our flat love to spend their entire day here, soaking in the atmosphere, with only the chirping of the birds and the shrieks and laughter of children at play breaking the monotony of silence.

But for most locals, Po Hong is more popularly known as a kids’ park.

A review posted online says: “The park has many swings and slides and structures for the kids spending hours easily. One of the best options for draining the energy of the children.”

Po Hong Park is accessible through the MTR. Just take the Tseung Kwan O line and get off at Polam station, before taking exit B2. It can also be reached by Bus 91 M, 93 A, 93 K, 296M and 690.

You’re lucky if, like me, you live nearby. This gives you the unique privilege of making this park your private sanctuary. So, my advice to my fellow migrant workers who are in Hong Kong, explore your own neighborhood. You never know what could be in store for you unless you turn on that spirit of an adventurer in you.