Breaking the Walls, Building Our Future!

Beneath the starry sky of Sai Kung, campfire light flickered across the faces of a group of teenagers. They had just hiked through the “world’s most beautiful trail” and were sharing their heart-pounding experiences of rappelling down a cliff dozens of meters high.

“Ready? Three, two, one, go!” Following the instructor’s command, students equipped with safety gear began their descent from the edge of a cliff dozens of meters high, sea wind whistling past, a jade-green bay awaiting below.

This was the second day of UISZ DSE Department’s “Week-Without-Wall” Hong Kong Leadership Camp. The night before, they had set up camp under the stars at Wong Luk Village, celebrating their completion of the first section of the MacLehose Trail with a self-cooked dinner.

Week-Withoout-Wall

Conquering the Most Beautiful Trail

Early morning in Sai Kung Country Park was still shrouded in mist as students packed up and began their hike along the MacLehose Trail. Renowned as the “world’s most beautiful hiking route,” this trail attracts hiking enthusiasts worldwide with its varied coastline and majestic mountain views.

My Trip

“I thought it would be easy, but I realized it takes tremendous perseverance once we started,” a student panted, sweat already soaking through his shirt. The winding trail led them up steep slopes, through dense forests, past the tranquil bays of Wong Luk Village and azure waters.

The MacLehose Trail was more than a hike—it was a test of willpower. The lead teacher explained, “We hope students learn not to give up easily in the face of difficulties and understand the importance of teamwork through this journey.”

As night fell, students set up tents by the sea and prepared dinner in groups. After the campfire was lit, the starry sky gradually revealed itself. “I’ve never seen so many stars!” exclaimed a student from the city. In this light-pollution-free night, they shared the day’s harvest, feeling the boundless beauty of nature.

Courage Lessons on the Cliff Edge

The second day elevated the challenge—rappelling down a hundred-meter cliff and seaside rock climbing. Looking down from the cliff edge, many students showed fear.

“I’m a bit afraid of heights, but I want to try,” said a girl, taking a deep breath. Guided by professional instructors, she gradually descended backwards and successfully completed the rappel. Back on solid ground, her eyes sparkled with achievement: “I did it! I’m braver than I thought.”

Week-Withoout-Wall

The climbing area was set up on seaside rocks, waves crashing against them, adding to the challenge. Students had to find proper footholds and plan their routes, testing not only physical strength but also strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.

The afternoon swimming session brought relaxation to the intense day. Within the safe zone, students enjoyed the clear seawater, some even trying snorkeling to explore the underwater world.

Clash of History and Modernity

On the third day, students transitioned from nature to the city, beginning their exploration of Hong Kong’s cultural landscape. Unlike the previous days, today’s activities were entirely planned and organized by the students themselves.

Each group received tasks: complete check-ins at famous spots like Tsim Sha Tsui, Tsuen Wan, and Victoria Peak within a time limit, while observing the fusion of Hong Kong’s history and modernity. Students quickly delegated roles—some researched transportation routes, others managed time, some handled photography and documentation.

In Tsim Sha Tsui, students not only visited the Avenue of Stars and Hong Kong Museum of Art but also interacted with locals to understand daily life in Hong Kong. At Victoria Peak, overlooking Victoria Harbour, they discussed the development of this global metropolis.

“I used to think Hong Kong was only skyscrapers, but through this exploration, I discovered its rich historical layers and cultural diversity,” a student shared during reflections.

The three-day Hong Kong Leadership Camp Wall-less Week concluded perfectly. Yet, the students’ growth journey had just begun. This experience of crossing mountains and seas, challenging themselves, would become a valuable asset in their lives, inspiring them to move forward bravely on their future paths.