Are you looking for the most jaw-dropping views of the Hong Kong skyline? Well, hop on the legendary Peak Tram!
It's like a rollercoaster ride, but with better scenery (and fewer screams).
Trust me, even after all this time, those views still make me go "Wow!".
First let me take you on a ride through time.
Since 1888, the Peak Tram has whisked passengers between Central district and Victoria Peak (the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island). This funicular railway (the first in Asia) combines history, breath-taking views, and a touch of thrill.
Back in the day, the posh folks on Victoria Peak had to use horses or sedan chairs to get around. Take a second to think about that next time you take the Peak Tram.
For more than 130 years, the Peak Tram has been on quite the journey! From chugging along with coal-fired steam boilers to nowadays zipping around with a fancy computer-controlled electric drive system.
The newest 6th generation trams (straight out of Switzerland), are like the luxury cars of the tram world. They've got more seats than ever, doors wide enough to make any entrance grand, accessibility for everyone (no steps needed), and windows so big you'll feel like you're in a movie (or shooting one).
Get your camera ready and hold on tight as the tram takes you on a stunning ride over 1.4 kilometres, climbing 396 meters with slopes as steep as 48%! Enjoy the breath-taking views of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour. Views so good, they don't need any filter!
Pro Tips:
Purchase your tickets online or even better, just tap your Octopus card to avoid ticket queues.
When booking the tickets, there are multiple choices to select from: single and return tickets, or the Special Combo (including a round trip on the tram and entry to the Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing platform at Peak Tower). However, I'd recommend exploring other points around the Peak for less crowded views.
Be prepared for longer lines on weekends and public holidays (even if you enter with a booking or the Octopus card). Consider visiting on a weekday to enjoy a less crowded experience
Go early in the morning or in the evening to beat the midday rush.
Oh, and don't make the 'classic' tourist mistake by thinking you've found a cheaper and better alternative for the Peak Tram: the mid-levels escalators. They won't get you all the way up! Really. They won't. Trust me.
Practical info:
Up-to-date ticket prices and online bookings.
The Lower Terminus is located at 33 Garden Road, Central on Hong Kong island.
Operating hours: daily from 07:30 to 23:00.