When you think about Hong Kong, it’s not the first thing that comes to mind—dim sum and shopping perhaps, but not swimming pools. But it turns out the Chinese Special Administrative Region is loaded with scenic spots for a refreshing dip, from the world’s highest pool to a natural infinity pond on a mountainside.
Swimming can have a myriad of health benefits, including reducing stress and depression, strengthening bones, improving cardiovascular fitness, and boosting energy levels. It’s also a great way to burn calories—just 30 minutes of lap swimming can burn up to 500 calories, which is comparable to jogging at a brisk pace. And, because swimming is a low-impact exercise, it’s easy on the joints.
Hong Kong boasts a number of public swimming pools, as well as a few luxurious ones in hotels. While some are small enough for a few laps, others are massive complexes that include a main pool, diving pool, and whirlpool, with something for everyone.
The newest addition to the city’s pools is the Kennedy Town Swimming Complex, designed by Terry Farrell and Partners, which looks like a giant spaceship that just dropped down along Victoria Harbor. The oblong structure is clad in zinc, which reduces glare and maintains a consistent color, as well as a translucent insulated tensile membrane from Birdair. Its R-value is 4.90, and it is expected to save the complex up to $1 million a year in electricity costs.
Other popular public pools are the Sai Ying Pun and Ma On Shan swimming pools, which both offer a wide range of facilities. The Ma On Shan pool, for example, has three pools, four huge waterslides, mushroom-shaped fountains throughout, and a water playground for kids. The Sai Ying Pun pool has a main pool, training pool, and two kid pools.
If you plan on moving to Hong Kong, consider whether a pool is an important feature for you and your family. Many larger developments with several towers will have a 50-metre outdoor pool, while smaller single-tower buildings may only have a small outdoor pool—too short for laps, but still a fun place for children to splash around and meet other local kids. Typically, a pool is an advantage for families with school-age children who need a safe and convenient place to burn off excess energy after classes. In addition, some schools also offer swimming courses during summer holidays, so you can get your kids ready for the pool before they move to kindergarten.