When planning a trip to Hong Kong, most people focus on the city and ignore the outlying areas. By doing so they miss out on a treasure of unique experiences that can be found in places like the New Territories. In 2001 nearly half the population of Hong Kong resided in the New Territories .

In 1898 the British grabbed more land from China and these lands, north of Kowloon, became known as the New Territories. It includes the mainland between the Sham Chun River and the Kowloon Ranges and all of the Outlying Islands , a total of 368 square miles.

Visitors who want to explore natural beauty and rural life would due well to abandon their luxury hotel in Hong Kong and head out to the New Territories. They’ll find gorgeous parks that eclipse those inside the city as well as wild countryside made for hiking, walking, and biking. Sai Kung offers a number of village restaurants and bars that will appeal to tourist quality standards while still providing a slower, more relaxed escape from the urban throng.

The New Territories are home to a few of Hong Kong’s notable attractions. The Hong Kong Heritage Musuem is located in Sha Tin. There are also several important temples, including the Temple of 10,000 Buddhas and the Man Mo Temple. Visitors may also want to check out the Lam Tsuen Wishing Tree or the walled village of Kat Hing Wai.