Victoria Peak Hong Kong Facts and History
Chinese name: 太平山 (Tàipíng Shān)
Address: The Peak, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong
Height: 552 meters (1,811 feet)
Highlights: Panoramic views of Hong Kong, Victoria Peak Tram, and The Peak Tower
Visiting Time: 3-5 hours
Victoria Peak Hong Kong History
In 1841, to commemorate Queen Victoria, Chek Lap Kok (扯旗山) in Hong Kong was named Victoria Peak. Due to its prime location and breathtaking views, the Peak became a residential area for the affluent and high-ranking officials. The completion of the Peak Tram in 1888 allowed easier access to the summit, further driving the development of Victoria Peak. Today, it remains the premier residential area for elite of Hong Kong. However, it is the unparalleled panoramic vistas that have transformed the Peak into a beloved destination for both locals and tourists alike.
What to See in The Peak (Attractions & Things to Do in Victoria Peak )
Peak Tower and Sky Terrace 428
Located near Victoria Peak, the Peak Tower is a 7-story bowl-shaped building and one of Hong Kong's most iconic landmarks. Inside, you'll find an array of shops and restaurants catering to various tastes. However, the true highlight is the rooftop Sky Terrace 428. As the name suggests, it stands at an elevation of 428 meters, making it the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong.
From here, you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree city views, including Victoria Harbour, Kowloon, and the surrounding hills. The Sky Terrace is particularly magical at night when the city below is illuminated by lights, creating a captivating sea of lights.
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong
Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, located within the Peak Tower, is home to over 100 lifelike wax figures of celebrities from around the world. You'll discover a fascinating collection of famous personalities. With interactive screens, you can even snap a photo with your favorite celebrity, creating unforgettable memories. It's an enjoyable experience for people of all ages.
Peak Galleria
Opposite the Peak Tower, the rooftop terrace of Peak Galleria, located at Victoria Peak, offers free access to the public. The expansive views from this platform provide countless visitors with another marvelous panoramic view of Hong Kong. Additionally, you can indulge in a modern shopping experience and savor a variety of culinary delights while you're here.
Peak Gardens
Just steps away from the Peak Tower, the true summit of Victoria Peak houses the former governor's villa, now transformed into a beautiful garden. Explore the Peak Garden and be mesmerized by its lush lawns and vibrant flowers, creating an idyllic paradise. From the pavilions and lookout points, marvel at the panoramic views of the Western Highs and the expansive scenery of Lamma Island. It's a perfect retreat for couples and families, and don't miss the breathtaking sunset vistas during dusk.
Lugard Road
For hiking enthusiasts, Lugard Road is a must-visit destination. This 360° circular path starts from the Peak Tower and offers a leisurely one-hour stroll around Victoria Peak, where you can admire the stunning panoramic views of Victoria Harbour, the vibrant Tsim Sha Tsui district, and the mesmerizing light show that illuminates the harbor at night. It is recommended to enter via Lugard Road and exit via Harlech Road. Don't miss the Lugard Road Lookout, which serves as the perfect vantage point along the trail.
The Victoria Peak Tram Experience
Undoubtedly, the Peak Tram is an iconic attraction of Victoria Peak and Hong Kong. It is not just a means of transportation to ascend the Peak; riding the Peak Tram itself is an exhilarating experience and the most enjoyable way to reach the summit. The tram ascends 396 meters with a maximum gradient of 27 degrees. As the tram slowly climbs, the trees and skyscrapers along the route appear to tilt backward. Remember to grab your camera and capture the unforgettable visual experience of the Peak Tram.
Moreover, passengers can marvel at the unfolding panoramic cityscape, from the towering buildings of Central to the glistening waters of Victoria Harbour and the stunning vistas of Victoria Island from above.
The Peak Tram History
The history of the Peak Tram can be traced back to 1888, making it one of the oldest funicular railways in the world. Today, the Peak Tram has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong. With constantly updated interior and exterior facilities and its iconic retro dark green exterior, the tram offers a comfortable and enjoyable riding experience. The panoramic glass windows allow passengers to admire the stunning views of Victoria Harbour from multiple angles.
How to Take Victoria Peak Tram
You can board the Peak Tram at Garden Road (33 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong Island) for your journey to or from Victoria Peak. The tram ride from the lower terminus to Victoria Peak takes approximately 8 to 10 minutes. The Peak Tram operates from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily, with departures every 15 to 20 minutes between the Garden Road terminus and the Peak terminus.
When you board the Peak Tram, it is recommended to sit on the right side of the tram (three seats per row) for a better view of the scenery on Hong Kong Island. The opposite applies for the return journey. Additionally, many people suggest taking the tram before sunset. This allows you to enjoy the cityscape during the day, witness the sunset, see the city lights come alive, and finally experience the mesmerizing night view of Hong Kong.
Victoria Peak Tram Tickets
Peak Tram Ticket Prices | One-way | Round-trip |
---|---|---|
Adult | HK$42 | HK$88 |
Child (3-11) / Senior (65 and above) | HK$31 | HK$44 |
Day or Night - Two Faces of Victoria Peak
Daytime at the Peak
During the day, Victoria Peak is a sanctuary of natural resplendence. As you ascend in the historic Peak Tram, your eyes will be treated to the sprawling cityscape gradually giving way to lush greenery. The Peak is a gateway to tranquility amidst the city's hustle and bustle, with walking trails like the Peak Circle Walk that provide panoramic views of the city, the harbor, and the verdant hills beyond.
The daytime view from the Sky Terrace 428 is a sight to behold, offering a sweeping perspective of architectural in Hong Kong marvels bathed in daylight. You'll see the bustling Victoria Harbour, with its continuous parade of vessels, and the city's skyscrapers standing tall against the backdrop of mountains.
Nighttime at the Peak
As dusk falls, Victoria Peak unveils its nocturnal beauty. The city below transforms into a glittering sea of lights, with buildings illuminated in a kaleidoscope of colors. The skyline at night, viewed from the Sky Terrace 428, is truly a spectacle - twinkling lights outlining the architectural wonders, and the star-studded sky overhead reflecting on the calm waters of the Victoria Harbour.
The emphasis shifts from the natural beauty and daytime activities of the city to the vibrant energy of Hong Kong after dark. The Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light and sound show involving numerous buildings, is a highlight not to be missed.
Learn more about Hong Kong at Night
How to Get to Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak, located at 33 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong Island, is indeed very close to Central (Hong Kong's financial district). It's just a short walk of a few hundred meters from Central to Victoria Peak. From Tsim Sha Tsui's Avenue of Stars, Victoria Peak is also just 2.5 kilometers away, and you can reach the foot of Victoria Peak in about a 10-minute ferry ride.
While the Peak Tram is a popular way to reach the top, there are several other options including buses, taxis, and even hiking.
Taxi
It takes ca. 20 minutes to travel by taxi from Central to Victoria Peak, depending on the traffic conditions. Please note that taxis in Hong Kong operate on a metered fare system, and the prices may vary based on the time of day and the route taken.
Bus
From MTR Central Station Exit A / MTR Hong Kong Station Exit B1 - The Peak Terminal: Bus 15 or X15
From MTR Hong Kong Station Exit E - The Peak Terminal: Green minibus 1
Hiking (1 Hour)
Route 1: Central Ferry Pier - Garden Road - Old Peak Road - Lugard Road
Route 2: The University of Hong Kong - Lung Fu Shan Fitness Trail - Hatton Road - Lugard Road
Learn more about Hong Kong Public Transport >>
Victoria Peak Tickets: Cost and Where to Buy
While Victoria Peak itself is free to visit, several attractions such as Sky Terrace 428, the Peak Tram, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, and others require admission tickets. There are various ticket combinations available as well.
Tickets for the Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428 can be bought at the Lower Peak Tram Terminus on Garden Road. To avoid queues, consider purchasing tickets online. Online tickets can be bought up to 30 days in advance and will save you time on your visit.
Tickets | One-way | Round-trip |
---|---|---|
Peak Tram | HK$62 | HK$88 |
Sky Terrace 428 | HK$ 75 | - |
Madame Tussauds | HK$ 230 | - |
Peak Tram + Sky Terrace 428 | HK$122 | HK$148 |
Peak Tram + Madame Tussauds | - | HK$ 310 |
Peak Tram + Madame Tussauds + Sky Terrace 428 | - | HK$ 380 |
How to Plan A Victoria Peak Hong Kong Tour
If you plan to visit Victoria Peak and other iconic attractions in Hong Kong within a day, you can start your itinerary in the morning by visiting Victoria Peak. Take the Peak Tram to reach Sky Terrace 428 and explore the Peak Gardens.
Then, head to Aberdeen Fishing Village to experience traditional fishing village life and visit the Stanley Market for a leisurely stroll through the seaside market stalls. You can also include attractions like Wong Tai Sin Temple and Nan Lian Garden in your itinerary. In the evening, enjoy a pleasant time walking along the Avenue of Stars, marvel at the unique skyline of Victoria Harbour, and catch the Symphony of Lights performance.
When you want to explore Victoria Peak in-depth, it's a good idea to dedicate a whole day to it. Start your day by taking the Peak Tram to reach the summit and enjoy the panoramic views of the city. Explore attractions like Sky Terrace 428 and the renowned Madame Tussauds wax museum.
Then take a leisurely stroll along the walking trails around the Peak, savoring the tranquil moments. Witness the stunning transformation of the city from day to night as the sun sets. In the evening, head to the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront promenade for a relaxing walk or experience the Symphony of Lights, a captivating light and sound show that showcases the enchanting nightlife of Hong Kong.
Learn more about Things to Do in Hong Kong >>
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