Nestled in the hillside of Hong Kong is Victoria Peak, one of the highest vantage points in all the region.  It is well-situated in an area that allows for spectacular views on both the north and south sides (though really it has a great panoramic view), which is probably why it has become a tourist destination.  Atop “the Peak,” as it’s known, sits the Peak Tower, a funny goblet-looking building that houses a shopping complex and offers unbeatable views from its rooftop.  And so, one sunny day, I went to seek out what the Peak had to offer.

The view going up.

I took the MTR to Central Station and began to follow the sparse signs to get to the Peak Tram.  After climbing up a very steep hill, I finally found a sign that assured me I was going in the right direction.  Right around that corner was the tram station, tucked away under one of the many high rises in the area.  I got myself a ticket and waited for the tram to arrive, marveling at the steep grade of the hill.  I don’t think even San Francisco has such a steep incline!

The tram eventually made its way down, gently halting before letting off its people.  I got in and grabbed a window seat, wondering what the grooves in the ground were for.  It wasn’t until we were climbing up the mountain that I realized without those grooves, people would slide the entire length down the aisle.  Along the way were some stops, which showed us just how vertical we were.  Eventually, we got high enough to begin seeing some wonderful views.  Everyone stared out the right side of the tram car to enjoy the landscape before us.  After a few minutes, we reached our destination and filed out into the gift shop of the Peak Tower.  Clever move on their part.

So many shiny things!

I, however, ignored all the flashy items and headed straight up.  I came across the Bubba Gump’s that is up in the Tower and decided to settle for a quick lunch.  I got a table with a fantastic view of the harbor and enjoyed a lovely meal there.  As soon as I could, I took the final escalator up to the roof, where a gentle breeze filled the air and beautiful photos ops were everywhere.  I took some pictures myself and asked another tourist to take some for me as well.  Below me lay a clump of buildings on Hong Kong Island.  On the opposite end was a view of the ocean dotted with islands, stretching out into the horizon.  Along the face of the hill was a windy road for cars to drive along and in the distance, housing for those privileged enough to get such nice property.  There was even a little garden for strolling that I wish I had the time to go visit!

I wanted to stay longer to enjoy the peaceful view and bright skies, but I had a ferry ride to catch, so I took a quick spin around the perimeter of the roof and headed back down to catch the next tram down.  My visit, though brief, was still satisfying.

The south side view, in case you were wondering.