PLANNING a weekend hike but put off by the recent heatwave? Don’t miss Tanglang Mountain Country Park in Nanshan District — the trails are mostly shaded, and now a new shuttle drops passengers right at the mountain’s base, making it an ideal spot for a day outdoors.

Shuttle details

The shuttle starts from the Caitian housing complex in Futian District, linking residential areas and parks, and calling at several Line 2 Metro stations before delivering passengers directly to the foot of Tanglang Mountain. (彩田村—塘朗山公园)

Fare is low, costing just 3 yuan (US$0.42) per person.

Trail highlights

After passing the Tanglang Mountain Longzhu Gate, you’ll walk for about 20 minutes before the actual climb begins. The initial flight of steps leads to the first viewpoint, Qingyuntai, in roughly 30 minutes. Continue upward toward Jimu Pavilion (Jimu Ge) via a stretch of road known for monkey sightings. This section offers especially good photo opportunities.

Scenery that rewards the climb to Tanglang’s highest peak topping out at about 430 meters offers 360-degree panoramic views of Shenzhen. Look east for Longhua’s cityscape and the silhouette of Wutong Mountain; look west to catch the shimmer of Shenzhen Bay, and on clear days you might even see Hong Kong’s Yuen Long in the distance.

Return the same way if your are tired. But if you have the energy, try the No. 7 Section of the Kunpeng Trail down to Meilin Reservoir greenway. This route to the reservoir typically takes about three hours.

Safety tips

1. Feel free to photograph monkeys that you see during your hike, but do not approach or feed them. Keep children close.

2. Bring your own water (about 1L recommended) and some easy-to-eat snacks and fruit.

3. Consider a trekking pole for added comfort.

4. Follow on-site signs and respect trail rules.

Grab a hiking buddy, hop on the shuttle, and enjoy Tanglang Mountain’s cool, leafy trails for a weekend retreat.(Claudia Wei)