Victoria Peak, Magnificent Views from the Highest Point in Hong Kong

Though none offer tours, some angles offer a glimpse of homes that show how Hong Kong's wealthiest residents live. Many homeowners here are entrepreneurs who made their fortunes in Hong Kong after starting out as poor residents of Canton and other parts of mainland China.

Looking down, you can get an expansive view of the ultra-modern city and the ancient harbor Victoria Harbor, always buzzing with the departure and arrival of ships that carry passengers and goods to and from China to every port on the globe.

Near where the ships dock, a pair of binoculars will help you get a better look at some of the many boat families that still populate Hong Kong's wharves. Here, as they have for over 200 years, fishermen and their families ply their trade in some of the toughest circumstances found anywhere.

But to see all this, first you have to get there. Visitors have several choices, including tram and bus.

The bus is decidedly less crowded, and you can still get a pretty good view as the winding road to the top circles around the mountain. This route has the added 'benefit' that you won't feel the need for a rollercoaster ride again anytime soon.

Most, for good reason, take the tram up. This funicular railway is among the world's steepest and most scenic rides in Asia. Though the term may be unfamiliar, almost everyone has seen one in person or at the movies. It's a long, suspended-cable system in which cabs go up and down the mountain in tandem. The weight of one cab coming down helps pull the one going up.

The wait can be long so be prepared, but it is well worth it, as you can get another spectacular view of the harbor looking down and of the mountain looking up. This is one ride you will definitely want to take at least twice - once during the day, and again at night.