Wunderman Thompson’s City Guide to Inspiration in Nature: Hong Kong

As the world’s leading researcher on inspiration, Wunderman Thompson knows a thing or two about the psychological link between people’s value systems and their sources of inspiration to predict how humanity will be inspired. In Wunderman Thompson’s Inspire InFocus report, being outdoors in nature ranked number one as the top of source of inspiration globally. Even though life is starting to “get back to normal”, many of our new habits formed during the pandemic, such as taking walks during work breaks or exploring nature in our own backyard, have endured. 

As we yearn to move, connect, and get off a plane and stretch our legs, out of a conference hall into fresh air, leave the confines of a hotel room, or even take a walking meeting or lunch in a park vs. a restaurant, here are some ideas for the next time you find yourself in some of the most inspirational cities around the world, for business or pleasure.

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Name: Katherine Kwan

Title: Director, Data & Insights

City: Hong Kong

I am a data and insights director at Wunderman Thompson Hong Kong. Some may think that working with data is more about logical thinking and less on inspiration. I would say inspiration is important in every profession, every industry, and every personal life. Inspiration always leads me to find the better solution or approach before solving the problem with my logical thinking and technical skills. 

Q> When do you find you crave inspiration in nature and where do you find it?

Katherine> Living in a fast-paced and densely populated city like Hong Kong, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily routine. It’s necessary to constantly shake up the routine and slow down to refresh our minds. Spending time in nature is one of the easiest (and most effective) ways to retreat and find inspiration. It can be just a 15-minute break to make space for a quiet moment and focus on the nature around you, which can be as simple as looking up to the sky. 

Q> Where do you find nature inside the city?

Katherine> The roof top of WPP Campus. The easiest way for me is to take the elevator to the roof top of the office building. There is a sky garden with extensive greenery and harbour views. It is a great place to take a breather, calm my mind and rejuvenate from the hectic work life. 

WPP Campus rooftop

Q> What’s your favourite hike or walk in Hong Kong?  

Katherine> Tai Tam Reservoirs. Tai Tam Reservoirs is a group of four reservoirs, located on the eastern part of Hong Kong Island. It is easy to walk and accessible by convenient public transport. You can start the journey in Quarry Bay, where the Wunderman Thompson Hong Kong office is located. Hiking along the reservoirs trail is like hiking at the heart of Hong Kong. In addition to the natural environment, there are lots of places to spot historical relics. 

Tai Tam Reservoirs

Q> What’s your favourite open space in Hong Kong?

Katherine> Belcher Bay harbour front. It’s located in Kennedy Town on the western end of Hong Kong Island. Kennedy Town is a residential district that is evolving into a destination full of pubs and eateries where one can enjoy the mix of old and new in a laidback atmosphere. Grab a coffee, relax on the waterfront, watch people workout, fish, walk the dog, you can find your inspiration there. 

Belcher Bay

Q> What are some interesting natural attractions in Hong Kong that are worth checking out?

Katherine> Tai O Fishing Village. The centuries-old fishing village is located on the northwestern coast of Hong Kong’s biggest Lantau Island, famous for its stilt houses, fishing culture and seafood. If you want to get away from the city routine and get inspired by something completely different, this place is worth checking out.  

Tai O Fishing Village

Q> And how about quick day trip or weekend trip in Hong Kong?

Katherine> I would recommend a visit to Lantau Island. In addition to the Tai O Fishing Village mentioned above, there are many famous scenic spots on the island, such as Ngong Ping Village, Ngong Ping 360 cable car, Tian Tan Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Trail and more. 

Lantau Island Cable Car

Lantau Island Trail

Q> Anything else to add?

Katherine > Inspiration Lake. Not only is the name fitting, but it’s also a good place to enjoy a relaxing day. The lake is adjacent to Hong Kong Disneyland, on Lantau Island (yes, Lantau Island again). It is a wonderful place for an outing, as well as for cycling and boating.

Inspiration Lake on Lantau Island