Victoria Peak

Overview
 

Location

Located in the Midwest District on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak is the highest point in Hong Kong, rising a third of a mile into the waiting sky.

History

As early as 19th century, the Peak attracted non-native, prominent residents because of its panoramic view over the colony 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. 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 Europeans and government officials. 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.

Attraction

Victoria Peak or "the Peak" is one of HK’s most popular tourist "Must Do" - it gives you a spectacular bird’s eye view of the city skyline, the Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. At day time, you can see high and crowded buildings and the busy Victoria Harbor. At night, lit up by colorful lights, the whole scene is dazzling as a fairly-tale world. The best spot to enjoy the scene is the Peak Tower and the Lion Kiosk beside the peak tram terminal. The best way to get to the top is by the Peak Tram, a funicular railway which goes up a steep 373 high mountainsides with an eight minute ride; the ride prides itself on being the utmost in safety – there has never, in the history of the Peak Tram, been an accident. You will enjoy breathtaking views on the ride up-have your camera ready to snap pictures of the masses of soaring sky scrappers, harbor views and ships traveling water far off in the distance. The stunning view atop the Victoria Peak is further enhanced by the one of Hong Kong’s most innovative buildings-the seven storey Peak Tower. The Peak Tower is designed by British architect Terry Farrel, and takes fullest advantage of scenery. The final stop Peak Tower sits at an elevation of 396 meters and you will experience a panoramic view of the Victoria Harbor, and Hong Kong Island. Completed in 1997, the Peak Tower is a viewing, dining and entertainment center.

Features
One of HK’s most popular tourist "Must Do" Spectacular bird’s eye view of the city skyline The Victoria Harbour and Kowloon