Day 91 – Hong Kong
Today was our first day to explore Hong Kong. We decided to go to Victoria Peak, via the Peak Tram. After catching the 101 Bus we arrived at the lower Peak Tram Station.
Here we waited one hour in line to buy tickets. I recommend pre booking tickets or getting there early to beat the crowd. The pre booked line was so much shorter than the standard line. The tram can take 120 people at a time and it came every 8 minutes. So I estimate 900 people were in line in front of us!
Peak Tram
That being said the ~10 minute tram ride was awesome, the buildings appear to be tilting and you can feel the force of gravity pulling you into the seat. It was a worthwhile experience. We bought a Single Sky pass, which includes the journey up only and entry to the 428 Sky Tower.
After disembarking from the tram, we left the building (exit was actually hard to find, but the main exit is on the same level as the information desk so go up 2 flights of escalators). Once outside we had some lunch, before going on the Peak Circle Walk, which is a flat 60 minute walk with amazing views of the city below.
We went to the 428 Sky Tower, and realised it really isn’t worth the price tag. The views are similar to the ones along the walk. Also we saw a pavilion from the Sky Tower which had hoards of people there. From the Lions Pavilion Lookout you get free views of the city.
After enjoying the views, we walked down to town. Along the way we stubbled across the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens. This was a pretty large zoo that was actually free to walk through. After all my travelling I think I have lost my love for zoo’s so the place made me a little sad for the animals. But hey, if you like zoo’s go check this one out.
The highlight of walking down town were the Mid Level Escalator. This is pretty much some elevated escalators that is apparently 800m long through the city and just gets you from A to B.
We then walked around to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (as recommend by Tourist Information Centre) to view the famous City Lights at 8pm. We got there a little early and it was cool to see all the business people having drinks near the harbour’s bars.
The light show was amazing. If you are ever down here, go watch it. The entire section of the city lights up synchronised to music was unique for me and I enjoyed it. That being said, an alternative building across the river was my favourite as it had its own show.