As the 120th anniversary of the legendary Peak Tram approaches, The Peak Tram Historical Gallery opens to provide visitors with a walk back in time. |
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Courtesy of The Peak Tram Historical Gallery |
The Peak Tram has long been a symbol of Hong Kong. Inaugurated on May 28 1888 by the then the tram carries more than four million passengers up
to The Peak every year.
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 Victoria Peak has always been a sought after location in Hong Kong thanks to its spectacular views and
marginally cooler climate. Before the construction of The Peak Tram, workers would transport goods and people by sedan chair up the precipice with no
mechanical help. The tram solved the transportation problem, to the relief of the human carriers, and became the first funicular railway in Asia. On its first
day of service, the tram carried 600 passengers. By the end of its first year, it had ushered 80% of the population of Hong Kong up and down The Peak.
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As time went on, The Peak Tram was continually updated by first switching from a steam-powered engine that burnt coal as fuel to an electric-powered
system, and then to the most recent micro-processor-controlled electric drive system. As it climbs the steep hillside, the incline and the views are astoundingly
exciting.
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Today The Peak Tram is one of Hong Kong's most famous icons, attracting both residents and tourists, and it now leads up to the revamped Peak Tower for shopping, dining, entertainment and a 360-degree panorama at the top of the city. This month, The Peak Tram Historical Gallery opens at The Peak Tram Lower Terminus to commemorate its history.
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Visitor's Tips |
The tram departs every 10-15 minutes from 7am to midnight from the Peak Tram Station, Garden Road, Central. One-way tickets: $22 adults, $8 child;
return tickets: $33, $15. Entrance to the Historical Gallery is included. Enquiries: 2522 0922.
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19th century |
1920s-1940s |
1950s |
1970s-1980s |
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14oC 70% 
