Victoria Peak & Peak Tram
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Victoria Peak - by Kdwk Leung on Unsplash
Description
Victoria Peak is the highest hill on Hong Kong Island (elevation of 552m). "The Peak" actually refers to the surrounding area (the very top is closed to the public) and consists of public parks and expensive houses. The Peak Tram funicular opened in 1888 and linked Central with The Peak which spurred the residential development of the area (which the rich would use as a retreat from the summer heat). The gradient can be very steep at times, going up nearly 400m in elevation in just over 1.37km - this explains the angled geometry of the cars. Journey time is approx. 7 mins. The carriages have been changed as part of the recent upgrade
Access & Transport
The Peak Tram lower terminus is located next to St John's Anglican Cathedral in Central. It is a short walk from Central and Admiralty MTR. The funicular is the fastest way to get up to The Peak but it is also accessible by taxi or bus / green minibus (takes about 40mins) via the winding Peak rd or by walking up the steep Old Peak rd or the Central Green Trail (from Hong Kong Park).
Instructions & Recommendations
The Peak Tram is a little expensive but still worth travelling on to get to The Peak and reading about its history. Up there, one can find a Mme Tussauds wax museum and a Sky Terrace to enjoy wide views over Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. Note though, that there are much higher vantage points in the New Territories and Lantau, but none so close to the city centre. Ideally, try to choose a day with clear skies. If you do walk up (or down), make sure to have proper shoes as the paths / roads are quite steep - and carry some water.
Environmental & Social
The Peak Tram draws power from electricity so there is no exhaust pollution. However, 50% of the city's electricity is generated from coal and only 2% from renewable sources (the remaining coming from nuclear and natural gas). Socially the tram is marginally positive as it helps preserve the city's heritage.
Conclusion
The Peak Tram is certainly worth riding once if you are interested in the history of the development of the city and to enjoy the views from the top of Victoria Peak. It is also a feature that is not widely shared by other cities in the world. The Peak itself is of limited interest, the views are good but there are some more impressive ones in Hong Kong, although none so easily accessible and if forms a great combo with the tram.
Key positive
Unique activity with an interesting historical background
The tram is a fun experience for adults and children alike
Good views from Victoria Peak on a clear day
Key negative
Tram ride is a little expensive for what it is but affordable in the scheme of things
Not much to do besides Mme Tussauds at The Peak
Can be quite crowded with tourists and queuing up might be required to get in the tram
Suitability
This activity will suit everybody, including children. Accessibility of the tram for people with reduced mobility is possible with staff assistance
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Monday10:00 - 22:00
Tuesday10:00 - 22:00
Wednesday10:00 - 22:00
Thursday10:00 - 22:00
Friday10:00 - 22:00
Saturday10:00 - 22:00
Sunday10:00 - 22:00