Standing 552m, Victoria Peak is the highest point on Hong Kong Island. And it’s one of the most visited places for tourists, and it’s not hard to see why. A sweeping view of the big city, lush forests and easy but amazing walks can all be reached in just eight minutes from Central via the 125-year-old Peak Tram, defying gravity. Guessing, it has become a circus that makes money with restaurants and two grocery stores, but there is still magic up here if you can go beyond that.
The peak terminus of Peak Tram spits you out of Peak Tower. Climb level 5 and you will reach Sky Terrace 428, so-called because it stands 428 meters above sea level. According to Hong Kong, this is a world-class event and you will be notified of a 360-degree view of the Hong Kong forest of architects, harbor and Kowloon beyond (if you can avoid Instagrammers and the official photographer looking for business before a well-planned view).
If you are not worried about a very high point, and even if you are, it is worth looking for the Lions View Point Pavilion - a beautiful look with a beautiful Chinese pagoda and a gate, full of images of a lion. This is where older people live and enjoy watching. It is a two-minute walk signed from the top tram terminus.
Another 500m northwest of the upper terminus, high on Mt Austin Rd, is the site of an old summer bed, which was burnt down by Japanese soldiers during WWII. Beautiful gardens remain, however, and revitalized with faux-Victorian gazebos, sundials, benches and stone pillars. They are open to the public; It takes about 30 minutes to get up here and your reward is that you have a happy peace. Walk through the gardens and get a second viewing point with island and sea views.
To travel long distances, including the 3.5km Morning Trail, take maps from the Hong Kong Visitor Center in an unused tram along the Peak Tower, or download the Enjoy Hiking Hong Kong app.
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