Why Hong Kong’s slowest transit is also its best

Published 2023-08-19
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Hong Kong’s trams have been rolling through the streets for nearly 120 years and through historic events including the Japanese occupation during World War Two and riots coinciding with China’s Cultural Revolution. Although faster forms of transport such as buses and the MTR underground railway are now in place, the trams have continuously served passengers moving across Hong Kong Island and evolved into a cultural symbol of the city. In bustling Hong Kong, the slow-paced trams are also a prized and practical way for tourists and locals alike to get around.

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All Comments (21)
  • @TrimeshSZ
    I always considered the slower speed of the trams to be a feature, not a bug. Sure, if you are in a hurry to get somewhere you are going to be better off taking the MTR, but if you have spare time, the trams are a nice change of pace. It's a bit like the Star Ferry in that respect - not the most practical, but still fun.
  • @ctrl-del630
    How wonderful to see that old traditions are kept alive by the citizens who (in this case) ride the trams on a daily bases. It some point it said that in the beginning there were many accidents with pedestrians. Here in the Netherlands we had the same issue. People were not used to how silent these trams were and would cross the street without looking. There is even a nickname for the trams, "the killer". There is even a song written about it. It is a beautiful song. I don't come to the city very often anymore but I do love to see those trams ride. The belong in the infrastructure.
  • @Den-rw7oq
    As an EX Islander; I have many fond memories riding the trams in Hong Kong and the last was in 2017 with two old school friends as a reminisce, we met and chatted with an elderly gentleman who still used it daily. It may be slow but it doesn't pollute and it gives you the opportunity to view the growing metropolis that it has become. A real jewel of the far east as is the star ferry, long may it continue.
  • @azuma892
    While other cities have closed most of their tram/interurban lines or replaced most of their fleets with soulless low floor articulated units, Hong Kong's double decker trams continue to trundle the busy streets. Just shows we don't always need the most modern things to get the job done.
  • @benjaminmtang
    it's one of the most economical and scenic ways of travelling on the island side. Especially when the crisp autumnal air descends around october through winter, it's one of the best ways of finding an oasis in the manic energy of HK. pair this with the star ferry and you have an instant time machine. i used to get out of bed 20 minutes early just to use the tram instead of the bus, great way to start the day
  • @tong.clement
    Within 2-3 stops of the MTR the tram makes the most sense.
  • @roberthewko6715
    The trams and the Star Ferry are some of the best ways to see Hong Kong, and the cheapest. I lived there for a few years and this video made me feel nostalgic. I'm craving shrimp won ton soup now.
  • @BreakawayBites
    I was in Hong Kong in 2017 ..... The trams, The ferry ride , the neon lights, ....All part of Kong Kong unique identity.... if i would to re-visit HK again, i will do it all again...
  • @c_cma1971
    I also love the trams in BUCHAREST, Romania. They are cozy and nice and have something special. I will try HK trams next year for sure! Greetings from Romania!
  • @williamchan8866
    Great vid, yes the trams are wonderful way to get around. They free your mind and just let your eyes wonder …..certainly nostalgic and romantic way to travel.
  • @user-vy4ge4dp3l
    Slow isn't a problem it's fast. If you go fast you can't just relax and enjoy the view.
  • @Gatecrasher1
    What a wonderful piece! I was so glad I tried the ding ding on my last trip to Hong Kong primarily to get from part of the city to the other, not realizing the slow ride actually opened up the true city before my eyes.
  • @bluejedi723
    its nice to move slow in a crazy fast paced world
  • @wdubb
    Tram is a healing spot..chill2 in the most hectic city in the world
  • @Aficionado2023
    I would love to take the tram. It is slow because it wants people to slow down and enjoy what is around them. People still continue to take it because they have to be fast and quick with everything else in life. This gives them a chance to relax and collect their thoughts.
  • @Sacto1654
    A big advantage of the HK Trams is the cheap cost per ride. Travel on MTR can get quite expensive on longer trips.
  • @jericomp
    We love Tram, we were on July 2023 ❤ 🇮🇩🇭🇰
  • The tram is therapeutical. No matter how intense work is, a Friday late night cruise through the city just slows everything down again.