Geographical Layout
The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, located in the eastern part of the city, encompasses two distinct geological regions, offering a fascinating insight into the dramatic geological evolution of Hong Kong: the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region and the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region.
Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region
This area is famous for its extensive hexagonal rock columns, formed by volcanic activity around 140 million years ago, and is recognized for its international geological significance.
Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region
This region showcases various sedimentary rocks that are up to 400 million years old, highlighting the complete geological history of Hong Kong.
THE WORLD LARGEST HEXAGONAL VOLCANIC ROCK COLUMNS GROUP
The Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region's origins can be traced back to an ancient supervolcano that existed in High Island, Sai Kung, about 160 million years ago during the Jurassic Period. This massive volcano, with an 18km diameter, erupted around 140 million years ago in a cataclysmic event known as the High Island supervolcano eruption. This powerful eruption left an indelible mark on Hong Kong's geology, shaping much of the landscape we see today, particularly in the Sai Kung area and beyond, creating the world's largest hexagonal volcanic rock columns group coverage area of 100 square kilometers.
400 MILLION YEARS SEDIMENTARY ROCK HISTORY DISCOVERING PREHISTORIC CREATURES
The Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region reveals Hong Kong's geological history, featuring rocks that date back up to 400 million years. Key formations include the Bluff Head Formation, which contains the oldest rocks from the Early to Middle Devonian period, as well as Carboniferous and Permian sediments. This area showcases diverse sedimentary features, including fossils and various rock types, reflecting ancient river, delta, and shallow sea environments. Overall, it provides a fascinating glimpse into the region's complex sedimentary history and changing landscapes over millions of years.