For the last two decades, the Peak has been more than just a tourist destination for Peak Tramways general manager May Tsang.
She first took the tram to visit the Peak as a child. "My memory of the experience is very fuzzy," said Tsang. "I was less than 10, traveling with my family to the Peak for its scenery."
The Peak Tower was still in its original form, shaped like a Chinese temple censer. "There were some restaurants inside but we couldn't afford to eat there, so we only took the tram to the Peak to enjoy the view."
Having worked as a fund-raiser before her current position, Tsang had no experience in tourism prior to joining Peak Tramways as the director of marketing. She did not understand tourism jargon so she had to learn and work extra hard after getting the position.
"I was looking for self-improvement and wanted to widen my horizons," she said. "By chance, someone told me that there was a marketing opening with Peak Tramways, so I went for an interview. Luckily, my employers were kind enough to give me a chance."
She learned more about the Peak tram on the job and was fascinated by its history, which she incorporated into the Peak experience.
For example, in 2007, Peak Tramway added a historical gallery to its terminal on Garden Road, showcasing more than 200 pieces of memorabilia.
"History is not just for old people. I grew up in Hong Kong and the tram is a collective memory for Hongkongers."
One of the most memorable events during Tsang's 20-year tenure is also history-related: the 120th anniversary of the Peak Tram in 2008. "We treasured that anniversary a lot. Leading the marketing team, I decided that we should make a big deal out of it," she said.
Her team recreated a tram experience from the year of its opening in 1888, with
19th- century costumes, newspapers and tickets. Visitors could get their tickets punched by staff dressed as train operators, complete with an authentic ticket puncher and a bag for carrying loose change.
"There was a line outside before we opened that day," she recalled. "So it was a spectacular event, even though it was challenging with the large crowds and drizzling rain."
When it first started in 1888, the Peak tram was the first funicular railway in Asia and was considered an engineering marvel.
"We have a double reverse funicular system," Tsang explained. "The principle is simple. It is like a huge pulley system, but instead of strings, we have thick cables."
The two cars at each end of the cables counterbalance each other, causing them to pull in opposite directions. This concept was considered revolutionary at the time.
The system is also ecofriendly as it does not require an enormous amount of energy to haul the trams uphill.
The Peak tram has evolved in its over 130 years of existence and is currently in its fifth generation - the iconic red car that has become associated with the Peak in many people's hearts.
More than just a mode of transport to work to Tsang, it is also an opportunity to learn about different disciplines and meet great colleagues, and she also values its historic significance to Hong Kong.
The previous generation's green tram cars can still be seen on the Peak. One is located there and serves as a tourist station. The other can be found on a disused spur track along the tram's path, an extra attraction to look out for while taking a Peak tram ride.
Although the iconic burgundy tram has been serving the city since 1989, the team behind it has upgraded it throughout the years to ensure safety, including enhancing the emergency escape route.
When she was promoted to general manager in 2009, Tsang had the chance to participate in different areas of its operation, including joining the engineering team on tram route inspections, which she found a unique task.
"I am very glad that I am a part of the Peak and Peak Tram's development," she said. "While I am not part of its history, I am proud to be a part of this iconic landmark's development in the past two decades and near future."
With the increasing number of visitors to Victoria Peak, Peak Tramways has been looking for new solutions to reduce queuing times and lengths since 2013.
After securing operating rights until 2035, the Peak Tram has been going through renovations for a longer and roomier tram car and a new set of tracks.
The track has already been shortened by 70 meters to make way for a larger and lower terminus during the previous suspension in mid-2019. The second phase of suspension is due in the coming summer, retiring the current tracks and fifth-generation tram cars.
The burgundy cars are set to retire on June 28, and will be decorated with Hong Kong-themed artwork by eight local artists in June, accompanied by limited-edition collectible tickets to celebrate their retirement.
"Everyone in Hong Kong has fond memories of the Peak Tram, and we would like to give people a chance to say farewell to this beloved local icon. We welcome everyone to come and take a last ride on the Peak Tram over the next few weeks," said Tsang.
