Lion Rock, Mountain peak in Sha Tin District, Hong Kong.
Lion Rock is a 495-meter granite peak in Sha Tin that rises between Kowloon Tong and Tai Wai and forms a natural barrier. Its slopes display steep cliffs and the summit is covered with sparse vegetation, defining the area's rugged mountain character.
Two paths were constructed on the eastern and western slopes during the Qing Dynasty to connect surrounding villages. These ancient routes show how the mountain has long served as a crucial point for movement and connection in the region.
The mountain became a symbol of local identity after World War II when refugee settlements grew on its slopes and shaped daily life there. This connection to people's everyday experience makes the place an important reference point in Hong Kong's urban culture.
The mountain is accessible through Lion Rock Country Park, best reached by MTR to Wong Tai Sin station, followed by a short walk to Fat Jong Temple. Good footwear is important due to the steep trails, and arriving early in the day offers better views.
The mountain's granite structure formed around 140 million years ago and creates a natural silhouette resembling a crouching lion when viewed from the east. This accidental visual impression gave the peak its name and makes it a recognizable landmark in Hong Kong's skyline.
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