Hong Kong Tramways

The trams have run along the northern shore of Hong Kong Island since 1904, and the system is unusual for keeping an entirely double-decker fleet, narrow tall cars that thread between buses and lorries at walking pace through Western, Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and North Point to Shau Kei Wan. Passengers board at the back and pay a flat fare on the way out, whatever the distance, which makes the full run along the line, some thirteen kilometres end to end, one of the cheapest long rides anywhere. The front seat on the upper deck is the object: at first-floor height, moving slowly, level with shop signs and awnings, it is the best moving view of ordinary Hong Kong street life there is.

History

A tramway was first proposed in a bill of 1881, but the Peak Tram took priority, and only on 23 May 1902 was the Tramways Ordinance passed, as the growing city looked for quick transport and less dependence on sedan-chair bearers. Track construction began in September 1903, and regular service started on 30 July 1904 with twenty-six single-deck cars, electric from the start; ten open-top double-deckers came in 1912 because of rising ridership, canvas roofs were added for the rain by 1913, and wooden roofs from 1923 (Wikipedia, Hong Kong Tramways).

What to look for

• The upper deck front seat - shop signs and awnings at eye level.
• An all double-decker fleet - a rarity among tram systems.
• A flat fare for any distance - the full route for the price of one stop.
• Chun Yeung Street market - the section where the tram runs among stalls.

When to go

Year round; the trams have open windows rather than air conditioning on most cars, which is pleasant in winter and hot in summer. One to two hours for a long ride.

Things to know

Most cars are not air conditioned and summer rides are genuinely sweltering. They are slow, which is the point for visitors and a problem for commuters. Cars are crowded at rush hour. The front seat upstairs is competed for.

Nearby

Central is mid-route; Causeway Bay and North Point lie east.

Key facts