At a glance

  • Central to Wan Chai is eastbound. Check the destination sign on the front of the tram and choose one that goes beyond Wan Chai, such as North Point or Shau Kei Wan. Save both your boarding and exit stops on the official route map. Use a crosswalk to reach stops in the middle of the road.
  • Trams share the tracks, but they don’t all go to the same terminus. If you’re heading to Causeway Bay, note that trams bound for Happy Valley branch off onto the Happy Valley loop. Check your destination and the branch point on the route map first. If you board the wrong tram, get off at a stop and choose another.
  • Board through the rear entrance, and try a seat on the upper deck if one is available. It’s easy to miss your stop when you’re busy looking out the window, so check your location on the map one stop ahead. Hold the handrail on the stairs, and don’t hurry up or down while the tram is moving.

Day by day

Suggested itinerary

See each day's route, highlights, background and stay together in one place.

First ride

Central Station Exit G → Pedder Street eastbound tram stop (stop 27E) → check the destination sign → board at the rear → if you used the upper deck, go safely downstairs while the tram is stopped at the stop before your intended exit, and get ready to get off → pay and exit through the front door in Wan Chai. If there is not enough time to go downstairs, do not use the stairs while the tram is moving; wait until the tram stops again to go downstairs.

Tram fares and getting ready to exit

How much do I pay, and how?

Regular tram fares are HK$3.30 for adults, HK$1.60 for children ages 3–11, and HK$1.50 for passengers age 65 and over, regardless of distance. When you exit, tap Octopus or a supported credit card on the reader at the front, or put in cash. The fare box doesn’t give change, so bring the exact amount. Your card issuer may charge a fee for an overseas card.

Why a short ride can take a while

Trams stop at traffic lights and at every stop, and traffic can slow them down. Allow 30–60 minutes for the Central–Wan Chai ride, including waiting and walking time. If you have a tight restaurant reservation, take the MTR and save the tram for another short ride. You don’t have to ride the entire route to enjoy the experience.

Exiting in order helps the next passengers

As your stop approaches, get your payment method ready and move toward the front. Exit only after the tram has stopped completely and the doors are open. If the tram is too crowded for you to move safely, it’s better to get off at the next stop and walk back. If you’re traveling with someone who has heavy luggage or difficulty using stairs, wait for a seat downstairs or choose the MTR or a taxi. Keep in mind that the regular tram still has a step at the entrance.

How to fit it in

Choose an eastbound stop in Central and ride to Wan Chai, then continue with lunch or a walk past the Blue House. During rush hour, focus on finding a seat rather than getting the front seat upstairs.

Reality check

Transport

The tram runs along the northern coast of Hong Kong Island, from Kennedy Town in the west to Shau Kei Wan in the east, with a Happy Valley branch. Before boarding, check the destination sign and stop. Board at the rear and exit and pay at the front.

Time

For a short ride between Central and Wan Chai, allow about 15–30 minutes for the tram ride itself, with extra time for waiting and traffic. Check the app on the day for the exact arrival time.

Cost

The current adult one-way fare is HK$3.30; children and seniors pay different fares. Cash fares receive no change, so bring the exact amount or use a supported electronic payment method. Check with your card issuer about foreign card fees.

Safety

For safety, board and get off only after the tram has stopped. Do not get on or off while the doors are opening or closing. Keep stairs and exits clear, and do not use the upper-deck stairs while the tram is moving.

If plans change

If traffic might make you late for an appointment

Get off at a stop where you can exit safely, then switch to a nearby MTR station. You’ll have an extra fare and a walk to the station.

If the boarding steps or heavy luggage are a concern

Use an MTR exit with an elevator or take a taxi. Even if you sit downstairs, there’s still a step at the regular tram entrance.

Small tip

The front seats on the upper deck offer good street views, but can be crowded during rush hour. If you have large bags or stairs are difficult, choose a seat on the lower deck. Board and get off only after the tram has come to a complete stop.

Final check before departure

  • Save your boarding and exit stops, and note whether you’re traveling eastbound or westbound.
  • Choose a payment method: Octopus, a supported card, or the exact HK$3.30 in cash.
  • Pick your first stop after the ride and allow 30–60 minutes in case the tram is delayed.

As of October 4, 2026, the adult one-way fare is HK$3.30. Fares, payment methods, routes, and first and last tram times can change, so check the official service information and notices on the day of your trip.

Information checked: 2026-10-04

Google Maps

Check the location on the map

Use Google Maps to review the location and nearby route. Recheck opening hours and prices with the official source before visiting.

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