A valley of excitement

Happy Valley is one of the oldest inhabited areas of Hong Kong Island. Its Cantonese name is Pao Ma Dei and it is famous for its internationally acclaimed racecourse.

However, the area has also witnessed a rapid rise in residential developments in recent years due to its convenient location and proximity to the rest of Hong Kong Island and beyond.

The Hong Kong Tramways extended into Happy Valley in 1922 and the community has been served by trams ever since.

Arguably the best and cheapest tour of Hong Kong (HK$2) is a ride aboard a tram from terminus to terminus.

Snaking its way along the island, Hong Kong's old rattlers follow the island's original shoreline prior to reclamation and pass through each district - a picturesque and colourful snapshot of daily life in contemporary Hong Kong. The racecourse is definitely the focal point of the area and a weekly Wednesday night attraction for Hong Kong residents and international visitors during the racing season from September to June. The grandstand is also home to the Hong Kong Jockey's Club's Archive and Museum, showcasing the illustrious history of racing in Hong Kong.

Attending a race meeting under the dazzling lights of the Happy Valley racecourse is an opportunity to capture the essence and vitality of Hong Kong's culture.

This magnificent course has been the home of horse racing since the first meeting was held on a strip of reclaimed marshland in 1846. Today, the track is ultrasophisticated, with computerised betting and horse races broadcast live on gigantic screens.