- The tram will stop service for a six month makeover beginning today, in part to create bigger cars that can carry more passengers
- It has been in operation since 1888 and has undergone several renovations, most recently in 1989
A photo of the 4th generation Peak Tram, which was in operation from 1959 to 1989. Photo: Hong Kong Peak Tramways via APThe city’s famous Peak Tram is a fixture in the memories of many residents and tourists, ferrying passengers up Victoria Peak for a bird’s eye view of the city’s many skyscrapers.
Enthusiasts and others have been rushing for one last ride before the Peak Tram closes for
renovations. The tram will stop service on Monday for a six-month makeover, in part to reduce waiting times for the growing crowds.
This undated photo provided by Hong Kong Peak Tramways shows a 1st generation Peak Tram, which was in service from 1988 to 1926. Photo: Hong Kong Peak Tramways via AP
Cedric Yu, who said he hadn’t ridden the tram for years, called it a collective memory for Hong Kong people and part of the city’s history. “Taking the Peak Tram just now reminds me of my childhood memories,” he added.
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The Peak Tram started operations in 1888, when Hong Kong was a British colony, to transport people up Victoria Peak instead of using sedan chairs. The original carriages were made of varnished timber and seated 30 passengers in three classes.
Since then, the tram has undergone several makeovers. The current fifth-generation Peak Tram, with a burgundy exterior and varnished wood interiors, began running in 1989 and carries 120 passengers.
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“The Peak Tram ... has evolved and transformed itself from an essential mode of transport to a very popular tourist attraction in Hong Kong,” said May Tsang, general manager of Hong Kong Peak Tramways.
The company is investing over HKD $700 million to upgrade the system, the tram cars and renovate the terminus, she said.
The Peak Tram pictured with a backdrop of Hong Kong on June 17, 2021. Photo: AP
Longer trams cars will boost capacity from 120 passengers to 210.
For Alan Cheung, a former president of the Hong Kong Collectors Society and a Peak Tram enthusiast, the makeover is welcome.
“Anything that can survive for over 100 years – that is not easy,” he said. “They must keep this treasure.”