Ding Ding! Riding the Heartbeat of Hong Kong

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“Ding ding!” The bell sings through the bustling streets, a cheerful chime that has echoed across Hong Kong for over a century. Like a heartbeat of the city, the sound invites you to slow down and step aboard a journey through history.

A Century of “Ding Ding”

One of the most special experiences you must try when visiting Hong Kong is hopping on the iconic tram. Affectionately nicknamed the “ding ding” by locals, these charming double decker trams have been rolling through the city for more than 100 years, connecting east to west in a steady, rhythmic glide.

Some visitors might think of them as trolleys, but in Hong Kong they are proudly known as trams.  They are a piece of living history still clattering along the streets today.

My Love Affair with the Tram

Living in Hong Kong for four plus vibrant years, I never tired of riding the trams. There’s something magical about climbing up to the open upper deck, feeling the breeze on your face, and watching the city unfold like a living movie. With their rattling windows, creaking wooden seats, and steady hum, the trams carry both nostalgia and charm.

Each tram is painted in bold splashes of colour, from emerald greens, neon blues, lipstick reds, and hot pinks.  Special rolling artworks that brighten up the busy avenues. They’re slower than the MTR, but that’s the beauty of it, the tram teaches you to slow down, look around, and savour the rhythm of Hong Kong.

Why Ride the Tram?

• It’s cheap! For just a few Hong Kong dollars, you can ride from one end of the city to the other.

• Hop on, hop off freedom. Jump off to explore street markets, tiny noodle shops, or cultural landmarks, then hop right back on.

• Unbeatable views. From the upper deck, you see everything from glittering skyscrapers to traditional herbal tea shops, sometimes on the very same street.

The Tramways Museum

For those who want to dive deeper into tram culture, the Hong Kong Tramways Museum is a hidden gem. Here, you’ll discover fascinating stories, historic photos, and original tram memorabilia that tells the tale of how this humble mode of transport became an icon.

And don’t leave empty handed, because inside the museum you can pick up a miniature tram model, the perfect souvenir. A tiny “ding ding” to take home, it’s a reminder of Hong Kong’s enduring charm and the little bell that sings through its streets.

Practical Tips for Riding the Tram

• Fare:-D Around HK$3 (less than US$0.50). You pay when you get off, either with exact change or your Octopus card.

• Best Seats:-D Head upstairs and grab a seat at the very front for the best city views.

• Routes to Try:-D

  • Western Market (Sheung Wan) → Causeway Bay for a full cross-city ride.

  • Happy Valley Route for a quieter, more local vibe.

• When to Ride:-D Early evening is magical, as the neon lights flicker on and the city buzzes with energy.

• Frequency:-D Trams come every few minutes, no need to rush!

A Ride Through the Soul of the City

To me, the tram is more than transportation. it’s an experience, a moving balcony where the city reveals its colours, sounds, and soul. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a longtime resident, the “ding ding” invites you to slow down, look closer, and fall in love with Hong Kong all over again.

So when you hear that cheerful “ding-ding,” don’t just let it pass you by, just step aboard, find a seat, and let Hong Kong roll beneath your feet.