Sarner International, the leading experiential design expert, has helped transform the Peak Tram experience, one of Hong Kong’s most renowned tourist attractions. The project opened to the public in August 2022, ushering in a new chapter in the history of one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
The Peak Tram, which has been in operation since 1888, is one of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways. It transports both tourists and inhabitants to the higher levels of Hong Kong Island as the most direct way from Garden Road to The Peak, running along a 1.27-kilometre track providing front-row seats to the city’s iconic skyline.
Travel back in time
The unique in-station entertainment experience places the funicular Tram in the centre of the story. Using floor-to-ceiling LED displays, theatrical effects, and numerous immersive technologies, the redesigned visitor experience at Central Terminus introduces five engaging zones: Eye of Infinity, The Beating Heart, An Icon is Born, Once Upon a Tram, and Go Wild at the Peak.
Lindy Lee, an Australian artist of Chinese descent, created the 10-metre-tall Eye of Infinity sculpture, which is located at the Peak Tram Central Terminus and incorporates an ever-changing lighting display.
The Beating Heart is a collection of vintage haulage equipment. Covering history back to 1888, an expressive AV display paired with vintage equipment depicts the evolution of haulage and operational systems.
An Icon is Born is a 1st Generation Peak Tram Replica installation. Visitors get a one-of-a-kind opportunity to climb aboard the wooden 1st Generation Peak Tram, snap photographs, and learn about the world-famous funicular’s history.
Once Upon a Tram is an audio-visual experience that revisits major occasions in Hong Kong and the Peak Tram’s history.
“A rare opportunity”
The centrepiece of the visitor experience, aside from the tram ride, is the hyperreal immersive exhibition Go Wild At The Peak, in which visitors are surrounded by LED screens on all wall and ceiling surfaces showing the various flora and wildlife present at the Peak. The wraparound full-immersion video experience is intended to inspire visitors to learn about and safeguard the Peak’s unique species.
“Working on the Peak Tram upgrade has given us the rare opportunity of being part of the Tram’s historical development, a legacy for future generations,” says Sarner International lead designer Alex Prescott.
“The fruition of four years of creative and technical direction by Sarner, the dynamic and engaging audio-visual experience enriches the passenger journey as the visitors make their way from the concrete streets of Central through the green heights of The Peak to enjoy the stunning views across Hong Kong Island.”
Martyn Sawyer of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (HSH) adds: “We are incredibly excited to launch the sixth generation Peak Tram, marking a significant milestone in the history of this much-loved icon which has served Hong Kong residents and visitors since 1888.
“The Peak Tram has always been a must-see attraction and with this upgrade project, we believe we have taken it to the next level, and it can take its place among the world’s best visitor experiences.”
The National Museum of Scotland was recently patrolled by cybermen from the classic BBC sci-fi drama Doctor Who, ahead of the launch of a new exhibition by Sarner International in Edinburgh.
Images: The Peak Tramways Company, Limited
