Which are the most accessible WW2 tunnels in Hong Kong? For the time being definitely these. Although they might be soon sealed/reformed…
- Beauty/fun: 3/10. History within the city itself. Interesting to stroll around, fun pics, and little more.
- Difficulty (check this link if new here, this is not your standard HK hiking web): 1/10. Bring a decent torch, beware of the lower ceiling and some other structures. Otherwise, easiest spot wrote about on this web.
Long ago someone mentioned to me the Air Ride Protection tunnels that were built in WW2 to protect against bombardments. They should be all around the city, therefore. And they are. Some have been remodeled as wine cellars for example. Some sealed. I was able to find one still open. This year due to Facebook and Instagram it has become a bit more well known. That + the Government recently saying that they might restore “some wartime relics by converting them into open museums so as to enrich visitors” = the last visit before possible closure…
This structure used to cover basically all the hill. The easiest approach is through the alley next to the Capital Commercial Building. Turn right and you will arrive at this tree and door.
With the padlock on, but not closed. Be quick getting in and close the door behind to attract as little attention as possible. And in you are.
The tunnels are long and they used to be even more. We found, in early 2021, still maps showing it in several walls. Yellow still open. Purple sealed.
Concrete straight tunnels with no much more. The entry
to the
ventilation shafts.
A few gates and nice-looking ceilings.
A WC.
20-30 min to stroll and see it all.
Be mindful of other people wanting to enjoy this for as long as possible. Remember closing the door. Do not trash. Do not deface. Enjoy while it lasts.
As usual, gwulo has a nice post about the ARP tunnels and this in particular. More pictures.
July 15, 2021 at 2:41 am
Thanks for sharing these hidden gems!
As of mid-July 2021, the brown/red door under the tree is locked by a bike lock. With a bit of observation and creativity, it is still possible to get around this hurdle and to access the tunnels. Be mindful of the place, be discreet, and enjoy!
May 9, 2022 at 4:15 pm
May 2022, the entrance gate has been repainted gray and welded shut. It seems that entrance is no longer avaliable.