In terms of Chinese dynasties, Hong Kong's history has been short - but its tale has been told by a cosmopolitan cast of traders and taipans, adventurers and assassins, refugees and revolutionaries. And despite the city's pace of change, traces of this colourful past can still be found.

Let this walking guide show you the way. Hidden behind Hong Kong's modern facade, there are wartime tunnels, backstreet shophouses, ancient shrines and colonial forts - and there's a story to each one. With clear maps and archive photography, this book will lead you on your own explorations of Hong Kong's heritage.

Born in London, Pete Spurrier arrived in Hong Kong in 1993 after a two-year trip along the Silk Road from Turkey to China. Expecting to stay in the then-colony only a month, he soon found himself beguiled by Hong Kong's cosmopolitan character and wild scenery, and has been based in the city ever since.

In true Hong Kong style, he balances a part-time career as a movie villain with interests in film production, writing and publishing.

Pete has written articles for the South China Morning Post, Hong Kong Business, Hong Kong Discovery, Serendib and Prestige. In books, he has written The Leisurely Hiker's Guide to Hong Kong and The Serious Hiker's Guide to Hong Kong, both published by Formasia, as well as contributing to other publications such as the Insight Guide to South China and Hong Kong Explorer.

At Blacksmith Books, Pete acts as publisher.