Red flags dotted Hong Kong landmark Lion Rock mountain in New Territories on Saturday, with the national anthem echoing in the valleys, when a group of Hong Kong residents took their love for their nation and city up high.

More than 100 Hong Kong residents sang the national anthem and waved Chinese national flags and Hong Kong Special Administrative Region flags at the peak of the mountain in an expression of their affections for the country and city.

The 63-year-old Wong Hung-yak was among those who started climbing up at around 7:30 am.

Wong has been to Lion Rock many times but said this time was particularly special. 

Wong said he wanted to take the opportunity to show his love for the city and country by climbing to the peak of the mountain and to symbolize the long-cherished Lion Rock Spirit for which Hong Kong is known.

Lee Man-wing, 42, took her son with her, in the hope of giving an example of loving the country and the city, rather than chanting slogans.

Lee said it is important for the youngsters to be educated on traditional beliefs and cultures and to contribute to their country.

In the meantime, Lee said she wanted to show her son that expressing beliefs can be done through peaceful means.

The peaceful expression of the group's affections for the nation and the city was in stark contrast to recent events in the city, which saw public property vandalized and many people's livelihoods affected by anti-government protesters.

Lee's eight-year-old son gladly joined his mother on the pilgrimage. "I want to show my love for the motherland with my actions," he said with some national flags flying in the air behind him.

For Jerry Xiao, a 30-year-old working in the financial industry who has been in Hong Kong for three years, this was his first patriotic gathering.

"We should condemn violent protests, as the city values rule of law," he said. "I feel so proud of my homeland, especially on this occasion with so many people."