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If there is only one thing you can do in Hong Kong, go to The Peak. If you have many things to do here, still go to The Peak. It is a must-visit attraction simply for its incredible views. Situated atop the highest point on west-side of Hong Kong Island, known as Mount Austin, and locally as The Peak (Victoria Peak). With an elevation of 552 m (1,811 ft).

If a single image could encapsulate Hong Kong, it would be the panorama from The Peak. Looking down at the city from this famous vantage point, you’ll see one of the finest harbors on Earth and a skyline so improbable, audacious and lofty. Beyond the mountains to the north of the city, the rest of China simmers and strains. Everything you’ve heard about Hong Kong’s restlessness and energy is dramatically reaffirmed by the view from The Peak.

Vantage Points

There are are multiple vantage points atop the mountain, including the Peak Tower (has a large viewing platform called Sky Terrace 428, in addition to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong) and the Peak Galleria, with the latter offering access to its observation deck free of charge. There is also the 2-mile-long Peak Circle Walk, which takes you along cliff-side paths to the scenic Lugard Road lookout point. There are also dining and shopping options at the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria, as well as the Lions View Point Pavillion.

How to get there?

You can reach the peak via the Peak Tram, the 130+ year-old funicular railway that departs from its terminus on Garden Road (nearest MTR: Central).

Trivia: The opening and closing scenes of the 1955 movie Soldier of Fortune, starring Clark Gable, were filmed in the Peak Tram. You can discover more about the Peak Tram’s fascinating history at the Peak Tram Historical gallery, which is located at the Peak Tram Lower Terminus.

Other options,

• Take bus 15C from Central Pier 8 or walk from MTR Central Station Exit J2 to take the Peak Tram from the Peak Tram Lower Terminus on Garden Road;
• or, bus 15 from Exchange Square bus terminus (near MTR Hong Kong Station, Exit D);
• or, minibus 1 from the public transport interchange at MTR Hong Kong Station, Exit E.

If I had only sufficient time during my visit in Hong Kong I would prefer sunset. Still, I enjoyed the great view even when it was cloudy. Traveler’s recommendation is at least half an hour before sundown to witness the city lights come on in their varicolored brilliance.