The Peak Tram Reopens In Hong Kong With A New Look

The Peak Tram in Hong Kong is one of the city’s most recognizable tourist attractions. It is the oldest funicular in Asia, having ferried people up to The Peak since 1888. While the tram has been closed for more than a year, the attraction reopened on August 27.

The Peak Tram running again in Hong Kong

The Peak Tram has reopened after more than a year and is now in its sixth incarnation. Among the upgrades to the popular tourist attraction are longer cars, which now allow the tram to hold around 200 people each ride. Moreover, everything related to the tram is now step-free to accommodate wheelchair and stroller users.

Besides the upgraded cars, the visitor entrance in central Hong Kong near the American consulate has also been improved. Here, multimedia exhibits have been introduced to reveal the tram’s history from the Victorian era to now.

People waiting in line to board the tram can enjoy an animated video, revealing some of the animals who call the Peak home. Here, toads, porcupines, wild boars and various species of bird can be seen.

On top of this, an art piece, by Australian-Chinese artist Lindy Lee, called the Eye of Infinity graces the ticket entrance. Readers can watch a video relating to the art piece and narrated by the artist here:

About the tram

When riding the Peak tram, travelers climb to 1,300 feet above sea level in just a few minutes. Meanwhile, the maximum gradient is 25.7 degrees. The views along the way over the busy city are stunning. In fact, guests in the last car can opt to ride backward in order to enjoy an unobstructed view. However, every seat on the tram gives wonderful views.

While riding the Peak Tram visitors should watch out on the eastern side of the tram tracks. Here, they can spot two vintage Peak Tram cars (editions four and five). It is also possible to see the enormous yellow pulleys that help power the tram. The most recent edition of the Peak Tram boasts dark green cars where previously they were dark red.

About The Peak

Known in full as Victoria Peak, but dubbed “The Peak” by locals, has long been one of Hong Kong’s most coveted areas. Back in British colonial days, The Peak was reserved only for Westerners, who were transported up the hill in sedan chairs.

Meanwhile, the original tram had three separate classes of seating. One was for the white foreigners who lived in exclusive addresses on The Peak. Another class was for police and soldiers charged with keeping the area safe.

Finally, the last class was for servants who worked at the great Peak houses. In fact, until the law barring other locals from visiting The Peak was repealed in 1947, they were not allowed to ride.

What can be seen on The Peak in Hong Kong?

Besides amazing views over the city to the sea, The Peak itself has a number of attractions. The observation deck at the summit is the best viewpoint. Meanwhile, the Peak Galleria mall, designed to look like a giant wok, is a pleasant shopping experience.

Close to the tram terminus is Monopoly Dreams, an immersive experience based on the popular board game.

Moreover, visitors can explore Madame Tussauds wax museum, where famous stars from Hong Kong can be seen along with other familiar faces. Meanwhile, there is also a variety of shops and restaurants.

For those travelers interested in exploring The Peak further by walking or hiking down one of the many trails to the city below.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance here and start at $47 HK ($6 US) one way for adults. Children and seniors pay $24 HK ($3 US).