As it prepares to close for up to three months for renovations, a look at the history of Hong Kong’s iconic Peak Tram
- Services on the 130-year-old funicular will be suspended from April 23 for the first of two periods of upgrades
Emblematic of Hong Kong’s history is the Peak Tram. The image of the tramway chugging along its steep uphill journey – its deep red hue against the incline’s greenery – is dear in the hearts of Hongkongers.
Now in its 131st year of operations, the Peak Tram is about to undergo renovations for the first time since 1989. For up to three months from April 23, the tram will suspend its services as part of a HK$684 million dollar upgrade, which will be completed in early 2021. The overhaul will continue in late 2020, after a hiatus for the summer months. The project is privately funded by the Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, who own the tram system.
According to the Peak Tramways Company, the upgrades will make the system much more passenger-friendly and efficient, resulting in a larger, “temperature-controlled” waiting area, and new carriages that will increase capacity from 120 to 210. Queuing times are projected to be reduced to around 20 minutes.
All in all, these renovations will involve relaying tracks, replacing control systems, and extending the tramway terminus to accommodate the expansions.
The Peak Tram has come a long way from its early days as a steam-powered funicular running up and down a wooden structure. In light of the upcoming renovations, City Weekend explores the colourful narratives behind one of Hong Kong’s beloved icons.
