Victoria Peak — Attraction in Hong Kong

💱A symbolic place for Wealth and Status —————————————————————— The Peak is home to some of Hong Kong's richest residents, such as prominent business figures, high-level politicians, and big celebrities. A few big names: business tycoon Jack Ma and Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh.

〽️ This place has become my favorite after multiple visits. I consider hiking to be the best way to explore The Peak and enjoy the incredible views while walking. The 2.7-kilometer walk on a walking trail is a great way to enjoy nature. The area is mostly level and paved, making it easy to walk through, and most of it is shaded by the surrounding bamboo and other plant life (enjoy the fresh air, beautiful nature, chirping of birds, and magnificent views).

🚶‍♂️‍➡️Walking trail guidance: The walk can be started by ① taking exit J2 from Central MTR Station, walking past the Bank of China tower, and following the signs to the Peak Tram. ② Upon reaching the Peak Tram Terminus, keep walking along Garden Road and follow the signs towards the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. ③ Cross the road and walk up Old Peak Road after passing through the back of the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. ④ Proceed through the residential tower blocks and then make a sharp left turn on this road. The Peak (30 Minute Walk) is clearly marked as a small uphill path on the right.

📍 Overview:

▫️The tram has been in operation since 1888 and is considered one of the oldest funiculars in Asia, reaching an elevation of 396 meters (about 1,300 feet) above sea level. ▫️The Central Terminal marks the beginning of the Peak Tram. The complete route is comprised of six stations: Central Terminus, Kennedy Road, MacDonnell Road, May Road, Barker Road, and finally arriving at The Peak.

📖 Historical Significance:

▫️ Alexander Findlay Smith designed the Peak Tram and initially used a stationary steam engine to run it. ▫️ In 2022, the introduction of a modern 6th-generation tram was a significant upgrade.

👁️ Scenic Views:

▫️ One of the most compelling reasons to take the Peak Tram is for the stunning panoramic views it offers. ▫️ You'll be able to see the skyline of Hong Kong juxtaposed against lush greenery as you ascend the hillside at an angle of up to 27 degrees.

📹 Viewpoint:

▫️ Sky Terrace 428, Hong Kong's highest viewing platform with a height of 428 meters (1,404 feet), is accessible by taking three flights of escalators. ▫️ This viewpoint offers visitors unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour and beyond. As the sun sets, the city lights twinkle against the dusk backdrop, making the experience even more magical.

🛒 Shopping and eating establishments:

▫️ The Peak Tower is a hub that provides visitors with a range of dining options, whether it's casual eateries or fine dining restaurants that serve international cuisine. ▫️ Numerous shops are available for visitors to buy souvenirs, local crafts and garments, etc.

🛜 Internet access:

▫️ Free Wi-Fi is available at The Peak Tram and The Peak Tower.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••• Tips to ride the Peak Tram ••••••••••••••••••••••••••

🔘 To view Hong Kong Island from above sea level, the Peak Tram Special Combo ticket is the most suitable choice. The pass entitles you to access the Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428.

🔘 For the best views, choose seats on the right side of the carriage when ascending and on the left side when descent.

🔘 The best way to enjoy this beautiful route is to hike down during the day.

🔘 Don't miss the opportunity to visit Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and experience the world of celebrities.

🔘 The Chinese National Holiday, which starts from October 1st to 7th (Golden Week), is attracting many visitors, so it's advisable to postpone the trip.

🔘 The ideal time of year to visit Victoria Park is thought to be from September to December.

🇭🇰

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Beautiful view Pictures 2018

Victoria Peak is a hill on the western half of Hong Kong Island. It is also known as Mount Austin, and locally as The Peak. With an elevation of 552 m (1,811 ft), it is the highest hill on Hong Kong island, ranked 31 in terms of elevation in Hong Kong (Tai Mo Shan is the highest point in Hong Kong with an elevation of 957 m (3,140 ft).

As early as the 19th century, the Peak attracted prominent European residents because of its panoramic view over the city and its temperate climate compared to the sub-tropical climate in the rest of Hong Kong. The sixth Governor of Hong Kong, Sir Richard MacDonnell had a summer residence built on the Peak circa 1868.Those that built houses named them whimsically, such as The Eyrie, and the Austin Arms.

These original residents reached their homes by sedan chairs, which were carried up and down the steep slope of Victoria Peak. This limited development of the Peak until the opening of the Peak Tram funicular in 1888.

The boost to accessibility caused by the opening of the Peak Tram created demand for residences on the Peak. Between 1904 and 1930, the Peak Reservation Ordinance designated the Peak as an exclusive residential area reserved for non-Chinese. They also reserved the Peak Tram for the use of such passengers during peak periods. The Peak remains an upmarket residential area, although residency today is based on wealth.

In 1905 construction of the Pinewood Battery was completed on the western side of the Peak. Harlech Road was constructed around the Peak as a means of resupply to this artillery and later anti-aircraft battery.

With some seven million visitors every year, the Peak is a major tourist attraction of Hong Kong. It has views of the city and its waterfront. The viewing deck also has coin-operated telescopes that the visitors can use to enjoy the cityscape. The number of visitors led to the construction of two major leisure and shopping centres, the Peak Tower and the Peak Galleria, situated adjacent to each other.

The Peak Tower incorporates the upper station of the Peak Tram, the funicular railway that brings passengers up from the St. John's Anglican Cathedral in Hong Kong's Central district, whilst the Peak Galleria incorporates the bus station used by the Hong Kong public buses and green minibuses on the Peak. The Peak is also accessible by taxi and private car via the circuitous Peak Road, or by walking up the steep Old Peak Road from near the Zoological Botanical Gardens or the Central Green Trail from Hong Kong Park. The nearest MTR station is Central.

Victoria Peak Garden is located on the site of Mountain Lodge, the Governor's old summer residence, and is the closest publicly accessible point to the summit. It can be reached from Victoria Gap by walking up Mount Austin Road, a climb of about 150 metres (490 ft). Another popular walk is the level loop along Lugard and Harlech Roads, giving good views of the entire Hong Kong Harbour and Kowloon, as well as Lantau and Lamma Islands, encircling the summit at the level of the Peak Tower.

There are several restaurants on Victoria Peak, most of which are located in the two shopping centres. However, the Peak Lookout Restaurant, is housed in an older and more traditional building which was originally a spacious house for engineers working on the Peak Tramway. It was rebuilt in 1901 as a stop area for sedan chairs, but was re-opened as a restaurant in 1947.

In addition to being a major tourist attraction for Hong Kong, The Peak is also the summit of Hong Kong's property market. Properties on The Peak can be as expensive as anywhere else in the world. On 12 January 2014, a Barker Road property sold at over HK$100,000 (US$13,000) per square foot for...

My recent visit to Victoria Peak in Hong Kong was a transcendent experience that has left an indelible mark on my travel memories. Without a doubt, Victoria Peak earns its well-deserved five-star rating for offering not just panoramic views, but a journey into the heart of Hong Kong's skyline and natural beauty.

The ascent to the Peak was an adventure in itself. The iconic Peak Tram, with its steep incline, provided a thrilling ride that gradually revealed the unfolding spectacle of the city below. As I reached the summit, I was met with a breathtaking 360-degree view that stretched from the sparkling waters of Victoria Harbour to the majestic skyscrapers that define Hong Kong's skyline.

The Sky Terrace, perched atop Victoria Peak, is an observation deck that offers an unobstructed and mesmerizing view of the city. The sight of Hong Kong's iconic landmarks, bathed in the warm glow of the sun or illuminated against the night sky, is a sight to behold. The panorama encompasses everything from the bustling streets of Central to the serene greenery of the surrounding hills, creating a visual masterpiece that captures the essence of Hong Kong.

The vantage point from Victoria Peak provides a unique perspective on the city's topography, showcasing the harmonious blend of urban architecture with the natural beauty that surrounds it. The contrast between the towering skyscrapers and the lush mountains is a testament to Hong Kong's dynamic character.

The accessibility and well-maintained facilities at Victoria Peak ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit. Informational displays and helpful staff provide insights into the city's history, culture, and geography, enhancing the overall experience.

Whether visited during the day or under the enchanting city lights, Victoria Peak is a testament to Hong Kong's skyline and natural beauty. The photo opportunities are endless, and the memories created from this vantage point are priceless. For anyone seeking a quintessential Hong Kong experience, Victoria Peak is an absolute must-visit destination, deserving every one of its five stars. Highly...