Victoria Peak: Last Sunset of Empire

The Peak was the exclusive domain of British colonials - Chinese were banned from living here from 1904 to 1930 under the Peak District Reservation Ordinance. Only one Chinese was granted permission: Mme Chiang Kai-shek. On June 30, 1997, the sun set on the British Empire here. You can still watch it happen every evening.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Take the Peak Tram Adventure · Price: moderate

   Take the Peak Tram from Garden Road terminal (HK$88 return, buy tickets online to skip queues). Operating since 1888, it's Asia's oldest funicular. Colonial governors and taipans rode this tram to their hilltop mansions. From 1904 to 1930, the Peak District Reservation Ordinance banned Chinese from living above the 788-foot contour.

   Backup: If the tram queue exceeds 30 minutes, take bus 15 from Central Exchange Square (same route, better views, HK$12).

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2. 2 Find the Sunset Viewpoint Adventure · Free

   Walk to the Lion's Pavilion viewpoint via Lugard Road (20 minutes, flat path). This free viewpoint faces west over the harbor. On June 30, 1997, this is where the sun set on 156 years of British rule. It still sets here every day - check sunset times before departing.

   Backup: If Lugard Road is crowded, continue to Victoria Peak Garden for fewer tourists.

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3. 3 Champagne at the Peak Wine · Price: moderate

   Bring a split of champagne from a 7-Eleven or ParknShop at the base (they stock Moët). Or order by the glass at the Peak Lookout restaurant (built 1888, outdoor terrace). Toast as the sun sets over Victoria Harbour. The British flag was lowered 4 km away at HKCEC, but the sunset happened right here.

   Backup: If restaurants are full, the Peak Galleria has outdoor seating with the same views.

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