Hong Kong — The Trams of Hong Kong

Summary

The article discusses the unique experience of riding the trams in Hong Kong, emphasizing the leisurely pace, authentic experience, and the scenic views from the top deck.

Abstract

The author of the article, "Hong Kong — The Trams of Hong Kong," published in January 2017, shares a personal account of traveling by tram in Hong Kong. The narrative begins with the author's decision to take a tram from Chai Wan to Wan Chai, opting for a slower, more immersive journey over the faster Metro (MTR) option. The tram ride, costing HKD 2.30, took approximately 50 minutes, during which the author highlights the importance of boarding the correct tram to avoid going to the wrong final destination, such as Happy Valley instead of the western market route. The article describes the trams as surprisingly bumpy with a charming array of sounds, and suggests that sitting on the top deck offers a delightful perspective of the city. The author notes the varying conditions of the trams and the protocol of boarding and paying at the end of the ride with exact coin fare. The experience is punctuated by the author's own photographs showcasing the trams and the views from them, concluding that the tram is a great way to see and experience Hong Kong.

Opinions

The author considers the trams a "hidden gem" of Hong Kong, offering a novel experience different from the Metro.
Taking the tram is recommended for those with time to spare and a desire for a unique Hong Kong experience.
The author appreciates the scenic views from the top deck of the tram, suggesting it as a great way to see the city.
There is a cautionary note about the ease of accidentally boarding a tram going to the wrong destination.
The trams are described as bumpy with characteristic bangs and rattles, which may be part of their charm.
The author points out that some trams are in better condition than others, indicating a possible range in the quality of the tram experience.
The payment system is noted as requiring exact change, with machines that do not give change or accept notes.
Overall, the author enjoyed the tram ride and endorses it as a worthwhile activity for visitors to Hong Kong.

Riding the trams of Hong Kong

January 2017

For me, one of the hidden gems of Hong Kong is the trams, and if you have the time (the trams are not fast) and you want a genuinely novel Hong Kong experience, then take a tram.

I was down at Chai Wan in Hong Kong and needed to return to Wan Chai. I could have taken the Metro (MTR) from Chai Wan to Wan Chai, and the trip would have taken 20 to 30 minutes; however, as I had some spare time, I decided to take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan and then board a tram at Kam Wa Street (///ideals.astounded.crest). The trip took around 50 minutes and cost HKD 2.30 (£0.25; $0.45 USD).

When you catch a tram from Kam Wa Street, you must be careful as picking a tram to the wrong final destination is easy. The trams go to the Happy Valley or on the western market routes. I needed the western market.

The trams are surprisingly bumpy, with numerous bangs and rattles. And sitting on the top deck is a great way to see Hong Kong.

Some trams appear to be in better condition than others. You can’t stand downstairs. You get on the trams at the back and off at the front, and you pay as you leave the tram. You should note that the trams require an exact fare in coins as the machines on the trams will not take notes, and there is no change. However, the machines will take ‘over the amount’ in coins.

Photo by Author — The Trams of Hong Kong

Photo by Author — The Trams of Hong Kong

Photo by Author — the view from the top of a Hong Kong Tram

Photo by Author — the view from the top of a Hong Kong Tram

Photo by Author — the view from the top of a Hong Kong Tram

Photo by Author — inside a Hong Kong Tram

I enjoyed my ride on the tram, a great way to see and experience Hong Kong.

Hong Kong — The Trams of Hong Kong

Riding the trams of Hong Kong

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