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Useful and interesting resouces

Useful and interesting resouces

Things to do in Hong Kong

Victoria Peak Past and Present

What is the story behind Victoria Peak before it was transformed into a modern tourist spot? Find out more in this short article.

Victoria Peak is the highest mountain on Hong Kong Island, surrounded by lush hills and the Pok Fu Lam Country Park, it is one of the most visited sites in Hong Kong. Standing at the lookout point, you can overlook the city from a bird-eye view and be astonished by the density of the city’s skyscrapers. What is the story behind Victoria Peak before it was transformed into a modern tourist spot?

The History of Victoria Peak

Tracing its history back to the Colonial period, the peak was once an area that was reserved exclusively for the expats and privileged to avoid the sweltering weather in Hong Kong during summer. Without any advanced transportation systems, people used to travel uphill and downhill by sedan chairs. When the peak was further developed with the launch of a tram line in 1888, it began to attract visitors by the sublime views of the city and the harbour, making it one of Hong Kong’s most well-known destinations. When the Peak Tower was unveiled to the public in 1972, the Tower Restaurant that was featured at the Peak Tower came with this interesting lookout deck. It was called ‘Fools Pavilion’, which suggests that you are on the top of the peak, standing above all the fools below.

The Peak offers some of the best views of the Hong Kong skyline

The best thing about the Peak is that everything you do up there is complemented by the spectacular view, including dining. Speaking of food and dining, there is a very wide selection of food that would cater to everyone’s palate, from Italian food, Japanese food to local Cantonese food. Great food with perfect views, what more can you ask for? Additionally, the shopping centre at the Peak is home to numerous luxury brands and local designs shops, if you feel like rewarding yourself whilst taking a break at the Peak, surely you won’t be disappointed by the variety of shops they have.

Looking down into Victoria Harbour from The Peak

 

See some of the attractions at the Peak

One of the highlights of your trip to Victoria Peak has to be visiting the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. Pay a visit and see if you can meet your favourite celebrities including Lady Gaga, Yayoi Kusama, and even The Hulk! If you are a big Monopoly fan, then you won’t want to miss Monopoly Dreams, the first Monopoly-themed attraction in the world which will give you a glimpse into the luxurious life of Mr. Monopoly.

 

Monopoly Dreams at the Peak

 

What’s the best way to get to The Peak?

Well, there are many ways that can take you to the Peak. However, as a tourist or first-timer, it is definitely worth taking the Peak Tram, as the experience is surely one of a kind! Apart from the Peak Tram, some other cheaper ways of reaching there are taking buses, taxis, or simply hike up there. In fact, there are several hiking trails that lead you to the peak, you may start from Central, Aberdeen, Pok Fu Lam, or Stanley.

Depending on your level of hiking experience and personal preferences, hiking to the Peak can be an absolutely amazing weekend activity!

 

View The Peak from a different perspective with the HKOW AR App

The Hong Kong Observation Wheel has recently launched its Augmented Reality App (AR App), which allows visitors to view Hong Kong history from three distinct eras- the 1900s, the 1960s and present day, whilst riding the Wheel. The world-first AR experience on a moving platform, features The Peak and points of interest surrounding Victoria Harbour. Find out more info on the AR App

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