Po Pin Chau Trail Fully Booked for National Day Golden Week Start
HKFP · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Sai Kung's Po Pin Chau trail has been completely booked for the start of National Day Golden Week, with all reservations filled for September 25, 26, October 1 and 2 . The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) urged visitors without bookings to consider the nearby Biu Tsim Kok section, which offers similar geological views without requiring advance reservations . The popular hiking destination gained widespread attention after volcanic rock columns overlooking the sea stack went viral on Xiaohongshu, transforming the remote country park path into a major tourist attraction . Hong Kong's Immigration Department projects approximately 1.29 million mainland Chinese visitors during the National Day holiday, representing a five per cent increase from last year . The trail introduced a trial booking system last month following safety concerns after a visitor died on New Year's Eve .
Key Points
- All booking slots for the High Island Geo Trail – Po Pin Chau Section are taken for September 25, 26, October 1 and 2
- The trail went viral on Xiaohongshu after photos of hexagonal volcanic rock columns and sea stack views spread online
- Approximately 1.29 million mainland visitors expected during Golden Week, averaging 184,286 daily arrivals
- The booking system covers all weekends and public holidays from September through October 7
- Biu Tsim Kok offers a 1.8-kilometer circular route taking 90 minutes with easy terrain and similar views
Why It Matters
The overwhelming demand for Po Pin Chau reflects how social media can rapidly transform previously obscure hiking trails into must-visit destinations, straining local infrastructure and natural environments . The AFCD's proactive booking system demonstrates Hong Kong's balancing act between accommodating tourist interest and protecting sensitive geological sites from overtourism damage .
The overwhelming demand for Po Pin Chau reflects how social media can rapidly transform previously obscure hiking trails into must-visit destinations, straining local infrastructure and natural environments . The AFCD's proactive booking system demonstrates Hong Kong's balancing act between accommodating tourist interest and protecting sensitive geological sites from overtourism damage .