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A viral photo prop—a homemade MacLehose Trail sign left on Long Ke Wan's sands—has put hikers at risk of facing a potential HK$2,000 fine, with authorities warning that unauthorized displays in country parks are illegal.
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The incident came to light after a circulating video showed visitors assembling a life-sized fake MacLehose Trail sign on the sandy shores of Long Ke Wan–a popular camping and hiking destination among tourists.
In the video, the group is seen posing for photos with the sign before allegedly leaving it behind for other tourists to use as a photo prop.
Multiple photos uploaded by mainland tourists on Xiaohongshu showed them standing next to the DIY sign with the backdrop of Long Ke Wan.
The video quickly spread across platforms, with many commenters accusing the group of treating the beach "like their home" and expressing concerns about potential environmental damage.
Some questioned whether the sign was taken away after the photos, while others sarcastically noted the group was making a "cultural influence."
Unauthorized display in country parks illegal: AFCD
In response to inquiries, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) confirmed that officers conducted a patrol of Long Ke Wan beach and surrounding areas on Monday (Mar 16) but did not find the sign mentioned.
The department added that patrols in the area would be enhanced and enforcement action would be taken if any violations are discovered.
The AFCD reminded the public that displaying any sign, notice, poster, banner or advertisement within a country park or special area without authorization is an offense, which carries a maximum fine of HK$2,000 and three months' imprisonment upon conviction.
Members of the public who encounter suspected violations in country parks are also advised to report them to police or call the 1823 hotline for the department's follow-up.
