The Peak Tram, operated by Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels, is a 1.4 kilometre funicular railway connecting the Central district of Hong Kong with the Peak Tower approx 150 metres below the summit of Victoria Peak. The journey is amazing with panoramic views over the northern coast of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. The tram which first opened in 1888 was the first mechanical public transport in Hong Kong and is the world's steepest funicular railway.
Until the 1960's had two classes of tickets, one for the rich and one for servants. The current modernized enclosed two-car trams were introduced in 1989, each with a capacity of 120 passengers (95 seated and 25 standing) although in quiet periods only one tram may be in operation. Trams operate at about 10/15 minute frequency and the journey from terminus to terminus takes about 7 minutes.
The lower terminus is situated underneath St Johns Building on Garden Road (near Hong Kong Park, the Citibank Tower and distinctive Bank Of China Tower) and the upper terminus is located in the refurbished Peak Tower. There are intermediate stations at Kennedy Road, McDonnell Road, May Road and Barker Road although at busy times it may not be possible to board at intermediate stations as the train may be full to capacity.
The venerable Peak Tram is, as most passengers agree, the only way to truly experience the beauty of Hong Kong's natural wonders. Tens of millions of people from every corner of the globe have taken the ride, which affords a uniquely interesting perspective of the city.
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