Eric's Beijing Diary

Took the Star ferry from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central today, in order to catch the tram to Victoria Peak. Couldn't help noticing the barges dumping fill in the bay, slowly stealing a little more land for the developing city. If they keep doing this, the Star Ferry will become the Star Bridge. Victoria Peak hails from the days when the colonialists sought relief from the summer heat by heading up to their summer homes above the harbor. But they had to be carried up by porters, and it was a steep ride. Thus the tram, which powers it's way up the side of the mountain, and greatly increased the number of summer occupants. The tram is still there, running today just like it did then, and providing the same kind of living history for this city that the cable cars in San Francisco provide for that one. The difference is that the San Francisco cable cars are still a major means of transportation. The Peak Tram is primarily a tourist attraction, so the experience is a little too Disneylandish. But I suppose everyone needs to see it once. Then again, maybe not, I don't know. It's up to you.