Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong - The History & Insider Guide
Timeless Elegance Since 1928 - the Grand Dame of the Far East
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A Resident since 1972 - Sharing Hong Kong as Only a Local Can
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The Peninsula Hotel - Front Entrance | 1974 | Hong Kong
We arrived in Hong Kong as a family on January 2nd 1972 - Mum, Dad and 4 kids, a new adventure for us all, a family from Yorkshire in England coming to exotic Hong Kong, how exciting
On the day we arrived we came from the Airport and booked into the Hotel Merlin which was literally at the back of the Peninsula Hotel about 25 yards away, after check in I marched across the road and into the Peninsula, totally in awe as to the opulence of the lobby, I was 11 years old and on the spot I decided I would never leave Hong Kong
50+ years later I am still here and I have visited the Peninsula Hotel many thousands of times, I love to walk through the lobby and then check out the cars outside the main entrance
I visit all the fancy hotels in Hong Kong on a regular basis in my capacity of a Private Tour Guide but to me personally, they are not quite at the same level, they may have better staff, service and rooms but their lobbies are just not at the same “wow factor” and that is that.
My only gripe and it is a minor one, is that other than the young people opening and closing the main doors and the valet parking attendants, I might as well be the invisible man as no one nods or says hi in the lobby and management ignores me, I have had many guests stay at the Hotel and I recommend to them all to pay a visit or even better, book a room for the night, I am not after anything other than acknowledgement that I actually exist, I am not hard to miss, I wear the same thing every day of the week (I have 12 pairs of jeans and shirts, all identical!) all the fancy Hotels in Hong Kong are the same, they are all a bit snooty!
So that image above, well it was taken 2 years after we arrived and this is exactly how I remember it!
In the image below, the construction site in the bottom right hand corner turned into the Sheraton Hotel which opened in 1974, I am in there almost as much as the Peninsula Hotel and it is also still going strong!
On a personal note, it is common to call the Hotel “The Pen” funny I never do this, to me it has always been the Peninsula Hotel not “The Pen”, just saying
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The Peninsula Hotel | around 1970 ish | Hong Kong
History of The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
The Peninsula Hong Kong, often referred to as the "Grand Dame of the Far East," is a colonial-style luxury hotel located in Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon. It is the flagship property of The Peninsula Hotels group, which is part of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels Group, and remains one of the most iconic and historic hotels in Asia. Founded by brothers Ellis and Elly Kadoorie of the wealthy Kadoorie family from Baghdad, the hotel was envisioned as the successor to the earlier Hongkong Hotel (opened in 1868) and aimed to be the "finest hotel east of the Suez." Plans for the hotel were first disclosed in 1921, with construction delayed until it officially opened its doors on December 11, 1928, after a reported cost of HK$3 million at the time. Positioned near the Kowloon-Canton Railway terminus, it originally catered to affluent passengers arriving by ocean liner or train, quickly becoming a hub for Hong Kong's vibrant social scene and transforming Kowloon from a backwater into a focal point of elite society.
This all came to a screeching halt in late 1941 but more on that later
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The Peninsula Hotel Lobby | a long time ago | Hong Kong
The hotel's early years were marked by glamour, attracting Hollywood stars, dignitaries, and high society. However, its history took a dramatic turn during World War II. On December 8, 1941, Japanese forces invaded Hong Kong, and by December 12, they occupied the Peninsula, renaming it the "Toa Hotel" and using it as their military headquarters. On Christmas Day, December 25, 1941, British Governor Sir Mark Aitchison Young and Major-General Christopher Maltby formally surrendered Hong Kong to Japanese General Takashi Sakai in the hotel, marking the start of the 3-year, 8-month Japanese occupation. Young was briefly imprisoned in the hotel for two months before being transferred to a prisoner-of-war camp in Shanghai. The Peninsula served as a symbol of the occupation until British forces regained control in August 1945, after which it provided temporary housing for residents displaced by the war.
Post-war, the hotel resumed its role as a beacon of luxury, with Leo Gaddi appointed as manager in 1948. It underwent significant expansions and renovations, including a major HK$450 million upgrade in 1994 that added a 30-story tower, doubling the room count and incorporating modern amenities like a spa, fitness center, and rooftop helipads while preserving its colonial charm. Another renovation in 2012-2013 refreshed the interiors with creamy tones, polished woods, and high-tech features like bedside control panels for lighting, sound, and temperature. Over the decades, it has hosted countless celebrities, political figures, and events, solidifying its status as a living archive of Hong Kong's social and historical evolution. The hotel has navigated financial crises, protests, and pandemics, including maintaining operations during COVID-19 with adapted services for locals.
For the record Leo Gaddi was a legend in the industry and have eaten at the restaurant in the hotel named after him (Gaddi’s) a rather charming and insanely expensive French Restaurant.
Ownership of The Peninsula Hotel Group
The Peninsula Hotels are owned and operated by The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (HSH), a publicly listed company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. The group remains firmly under the control of the Kadoorie family, a prominent Hong Kong dynasty of Iraqi Jewish heritage originally from Baghdad. The family has been involved since the hotel’s founding in 1928 by brothers Ellis and Elly Kadoorie.
Today, Sir Michael Kadoorie (son of Lord Lawrence Kadoorie) serves as Non-Executive Chairman, with his son Philip Kadoorie as Deputy Chairman. The Kadoorie family holds a substantial majority stake — currently around 60% (with past increases pushing it higher through family trusts and holding companies) - giving them enduring influence over the group’s direction alongside their other major interests, including a significant shareholding in CLP Holdings, Hong Kong’s main electricity provider and I get out electricity from his company CLP.
Sir Michael Kadoorie is a real gentleman and has a most impressive fleet of cars in his private collection, I have photographed quite a few of them and yes, he has a thing for Rolls Royce’s and Bentley’s!
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The Peninsula Hotel | Room 336 | Hong Kong
Historic Significance of Room 336 at The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
I have always been intrigued by room 336 which is why I went up there to take a photograph! and I had heard a few people talk about the ghosts of room 336
It is primarily famous for its historical rather than supernatural significance, as the site where British Governor Sir Mark Aitchison Young and Major-General Christopher Maltby formally signed the surrender documents to Japanese forces on Christmas Day, December 25, 1941. This event marked the beginning of the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, which lasted until 1945.
Despite the hotel's dramatic wartime history - including its use as Japanese military headquarters (renamed the Tōa Hotel), where interrogations and alleged torture occurred - specific ghost stories or paranormal claims tied directly to Room 336 appear rare or nonexistent in public accounts.
The broader hotel has occasional mentions of being "haunted by war-torn ghosts" due to its occupation-era role, with some sources suggesting lingering spirits from that dark period. However, these references are general to the property as a whole, not pinpointed to Room 336. The room itself remains a standard bookable accommodation, with no plaques, official acknowledgments, or reported supernatural incidents highlighted in hotel lore, guest reviews, or local ghost-hunting discussions., that is all well and good but some people will draw their own conclusions
Hong Kong has abundant ghost stories associated with other hotels, buildings, and sites (often linked to WWII tragedies, suicides, or accidents), but Room 336 doesn't feature prominently in those narratives. The hotel's discretion in downplaying the surrender event (likely to avoid offending guests, including Japanese visitors) may contribute to the lack of publicized eerie tales about the room.
Anyway, no matter, it is still an iconic happening this iconic Hotel had historically
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The Peninsula Hotel | The Grand Dame | Hong Kong
The Remarkable Doormen and Door Ladies of The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
Please see image no. 6 above, my guest with one of the door people
One of the most heart-warming aspects of arriving at The Peninsula is being greeted by the smartly uniformed young men and women at the main entrance. Many of these dedicated team members are deaf, and they communicate with each other — and often with guests - through fluent sign language. Far from being a limitation, their presence adds an extra layer of warmth, professionalism, and humanity to the hotel’s legendary service.
Sir Michael Kadoorie and the Peninsula management deserve genuine credit for this inclusive approach. In Hong Kong, where cultural attitudes can still make it challenging for deaf people to find good employment, the Peninsula has quietly become a leader in offering real opportunities and dignity through meaningful work.
I have a personal theory about the non-deaf doormen and door ladies: many of them are likely junior hotel staff who are deliberately rotated through the front door role as a lesson in humility, teamwork, and respect - working shoulder-to-shoulder with their deaf colleagues. Not every doorman or door lady is deaf, but the entire team beautifully reflects the hotel’s long-standing values of care, respect, and giving back to the community. It is a special and often overlooked detail that makes the welcome at the Grand Dame feel even more genuine.
Current Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong Details
Number of Rooms The Peninsula Hong Kong has a total of 300 rooms and suites, comprising 246 rooms and 54 suites. Room types include Superior, Deluxe, Deluxe Courtyard, Grand Deluxe, Grand Deluxe Kowloon View, Grand Deluxe Harbour View, and various suites such as themed options like the Peninsula Suite with private rooftop access., I should point out that many luxury Hotels in Hong Kong have more rooms, the Mandarin Oriental had around 450 and the Four Seasons Hotel around 400 and the newly renovated Regent Hotel has 500 rooms.
Room Sizes, Rates & Loyalty at The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
As mentioned above The Peninsula Hong Kong offers 300 elegantly appointed rooms and suites across the historic main building and the modern Peninsula Tower. Rooms are notably spacious by Hong Kong standards:
Deluxe Rooms (most common entry-level category): 41- 45 sq m (441 - 484 sq ft)
Grand Deluxe Rooms: around 43 sq m (463 sq ft)
Suites: range from approximately 80 - 130 sq m (860 - 1,400 sq ft) for standard suites, all the way up to the palatial Peninsula Suite at a staggering 377 sq m (4,111 sq ft) with its own private landscaped terrace.
Rates are in line with ultra-luxury positioning in Hong Kong. As of 2026, starting nightly rates for a Deluxe Room typically begin from around HK$4,600 - 5,500 (approx. US$590 - 700), while Grand Deluxe Harbour View rooms start from HK$5,600+. Suites and special categories climb significantly higher, with the most exclusive options reaching several thousand US dollars per night, especially during peak seasons. Rates fluctuate with demand, events, and booking channels, and always include the hotel’s impeccable service and facilities.
Loyalty & Booking Perks The Peninsula does not operate a traditional large-scale points-based loyalty programme like many international chains. Instead, it focuses on personalised recognition for frequent guests and works closely with select partners. Direct bookings or bookings through approved luxury travel advisors (via the Peninsula PenClub programme) often unlock meaningful benefits such as room upgrades (subject to availability), flexible “Peninsula Time” check-in/check-out, complimentary breakfast for two, and property credits. In Greater China properties (including Hong Kong), the Peninsula Perfect Companion digital programme offers additional perks for direct bookers, including breakfast, transfers, and dining/spa discounts. Many guests also access enhanced benefits through American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts or other elite travel programmes.
List of Bars and Restaurants The hotel features eight award-winning restaurants and bars, blending international cuisines with elegant settings. Here's a comprehensive list and yes, I have eaten in all of them except Imasa and yes, top notch.
The Lobby: Iconic venue for the legendary Peninsula Afternoon Tea, served amid grand pillars and live music; offers all-day dining with international classics.
The Verandah: Buffet-style restaurant with continental and Asian dishes in a relaxed, garden-like setting.
Gaddi's: Fine French dining since 1953, known for its opulent decor, live music, and dishes like foie gras and caviar.
Spring Moon: Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant specializing in dim sum, tea culture, and classics like Peking duck in a 1920s Shanghai-inspired ambiance.
Chesa: Swiss chalet-style eatery offering hearty Alpine fare like fondue and rösti.
Felix: Modern European cuisine on the 28th floor with Philippe Starck design, panoramic views, and innovative cocktails at its bar.
Imasa: Japanese restaurant focusing on kaiseki, sushi, and teppanyaki with fresh seasonal ingredients.
The Bar: Sophisticated lounge for craft cocktails, fine wines, and light bites in a club-like atmosphere.
The World-Renowned Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong Afternoon Tea
No visit to The Peninsula Hong Kong is complete without experiencing its legendary Afternoon Tea in The Lobby - widely regarded as one of the finest and most iconic in the world. Having enjoyed this ritual on roughly 20 occasions over the years, I can honestly say it remains one of my favourite Hong Kong traditions.
Served daily from 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm (last order 5:00 pm) amid soaring marble columns, accompanied by the live classical music of the Lobby Strings quartet, the classic set includes delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, exquisite pastries, and your choice of fine loose-leaf teas.
Current pricing (2026) is approximately HK$488 - 528 per person or HK$868 - 918 for two, plus 10% service charge (prices vary slightly by season and inclusions; champagne options are higher). There is a minimum spend of around HK$350 - 400 per guest.
Practical tips: The Lobby does not accept reservations for non-hotel guests - it is strictly first-come, first-served, and queues can form well before opening, especially on weekends and public holidays. However, as a hotel guest, you receive clear priority and are usually seated much more easily. I always recommend arriving by 1:30 pm on weekdays or opting for a later slot after 4:00 pm to avoid the longest waits. It’s a true Hong Kong institution and well worth the experience.
As usual I should point out that many 5 star Hotels in Hong Kong now offer afternoon tea and they are all rather splendid, however they have one flaw, they do not have the iconic Peninsula Hotel Lobby!
Dress Code at The Peninsula Hong Kong
The Peninsula maintains an elegant but approachable Smart Casual dress code, especially in The Lobby for Afternoon Tea. According to the hotel’s current policy, guests should avoid sports attire (vests, athletic shorts, leggings), beachwear, flip-flops, beach sandals, or any plastic footwear. That said, during lunch and afternoon tea hours, the hotel is reasonably flexible: knee-length shorts, jeans, collared or smart t-shirts, and clean sneakers are generally acceptable.
In the evening (after 6:00 pm), standards rise slightly - gentlemen are expected to wear long trousers. my observation is spot on: most guests (and certainly those who want the full elegant experience) dress neatly and avoid very casual beach or gym looks. In my years of guiding, I always advise clients to err on the side of smart casual - it shows respect for the hotel’s heritage and helps you feel completely at home in one of Hong Kong’s most iconic spaces, or translated into my speak, NO RIFF RAFF!
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The Peninsula Hotel | Felix Bar & Restaurant | Hong Kong
Felix - Spectacular Views from the 28th Floor of the Peninsula Hotel Extention
Yes, it has it’s own private elevator!
Perched on the 28th floor of the Peninsula Tower, Felix is one of the hotel’s most dramatic dining and drinking experiences. Designed by the renowned Philippe Starck, this modern European restaurant and bar features floor-to-ceiling windows offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. Guests are whisked up in a private express lift directly from the Lobby level, adding an immediate sense of exclusivity. (you need to ask a staff member for the location of the lift as it is not in the main lobby but near the back entrance)
By day it serves an elegant lunch and dinner menu; by night it becomes a sophisticated cocktail bar with creative drinks and a lively yet refined atmosphere. Current pricing (2026) is in the upscale range - expect set lunches from around HK$580 - 780 and dinner mains from HK$680 - 1,200+, with cocktails at HK$180 - 280.
Dress code is Smart Casual to Elegant: collared shirts and long trousers are preferred for men in the evening, with no shorts, flip-flops or athletic wear. Many guests dress up a little to match the spectacular setting and it really is spectacular
Whether you’re there for the food, the cocktails, or simply to soak in those unforgettable views, Felix remains one of the most memorable dining experiences in Hong Kong and a firm favourite among many of my guests.
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The Peninsula Hotel | The Grand Dame | Hong Kong
Art at The Peninsula: Bold, Unexpected and Sometimes Controversial
The Peninsula has long treated its public spaces as a living gallery, and few hotels in the world display art as boldly or inventively. The grand Lobby regularly hosts major installations as part of the hotel’s Art in Resonance programme. During certain exhibitions you might find yourself walking past towering sculptures, immersive works, or even multi-million-dollar hypercars such as a real Pagani displayed right in the middle of the marble hall. These free-to-view exhibitions (especially prominent during Hong Kong Arts Month and Art Basel) add a dynamic, contemporary edge to the hotel’s classic elegance.
One of the most talked-about installations involved a series of large, glossy black marble sculptures by Colombian artist Fernando Botero. Locally known as the “fat naked ladies,” these voluptuous, larger-than-life female figures were placed both inside the hotel and prominently outside near the entrance. According to well-placed government sources, the hotel was eventually asked to remove the outdoor sculptures due to cultural sensitivities around public nudity. The pieces were taken down or relocated, and the episode was reportedly covered in the South China Morning Post, becoming part of Peninsula folklore.
The Remarkable Restrooms (and Coat Rooms) at The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
On the first floor, one up from Graff and tucked discreetly next to The Verandah restaurant and Chesa is one of the most quietly impressive details in the hotel: the exceptionally elegant public restrooms. These are not ordinary hotel facilities - they are spacious, immaculately maintained marble sanctuaries with high ceilings, beautiful fixtures, fresh flowers, and that unmistakable old-world Peninsula polish and yes wheelchair accessible!
What truly sets them apart, however, are the dedicated, manned coat rooms right beside them. Attendants are on hand to look after coats, bags, umbrellas, or shopping purchases while you dine or enjoy afternoon tea. In an era where self-service cloakrooms are the norm, having uniformed staff personally caring for your belongings is a rare and genuinely luxurious touch that speaks volumes about the hotel’s old-school service standards. Many long-time guests consider these restrooms among the best in Hong Kong - a small but memorable example of why the Peninsula Hotel still feels special.
Hidden Treasures Most Guests Overlook
Just one floor up the iconic marble staircase - perfectly framed and clearly visible from the Lobby - sits the ultra-exclusive Graff jewellery boutique (Mezzanine shops ML8 & ML9). Founded by London-born Laurence Graff, a member of the Jewish community like the Kadoorie family who own the hotel, Graff is one of the world’s most prestigious names in high jewellery and diamonds. Its presence feels entirely natural in this setting: discreet, breathtakingly expensive, and quietly reinforcing the Peninsula’s position as Hong Kong’s ultimate address for timeless luxury., I have had guests buy jewellery in there.
While you’re up there, step into the sophisticated lounge simply known as The Bar. Unlike the hotel’s other venues with grand names (Gaddi’s, Felix, Spring Moon), this elegant first-floor space carries the most understated name possible - “The Bar.” It’s deliberate: a classic, club-like retreat with no pretension, where the focus is purely on exceptional cocktails, fine wines, and relaxed conversation. Long-time staff and regulars love that it has never tried to be anything more than exactly what it is — the perfect counterpoint to the grandeur downstairs.
.. and the best hidden treasure is a little shop called Shun Tak Tong, same floor as Graff, this shop sells jade jewellert at very reasonable prices and the owner likes to talk about Jade, you should check it out.
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The Peninsula Hotel | The Cars | Hong Kong
The Peninsula Hong Kong Fleet: Arrival in Style
All the green cars above are for Hotel use, it is that very special green paint! the Pagani’s well Sir Michael loves his cars, so he stuck one in the lobby for a while and quite often Pagani owners turn up en masse (we have 11 in Hong Kong) and they can cost US$3 to 4 Million!
One of the most memorable experiences at The Peninsula Hong Kong is the legendary arrival. Guests are greeted by a fleet of impeccably maintained vehicles in the signature Peninsula Green, embodying the hotel’s commitment to timeless elegance and modern comfort.
The Evolution of The Peninsula Hong Kong’s Legendary Fleet
From its opening in 1928, The Peninsula understood that the journey begins the moment guests step off the ship or train at the Kowloon terminus. In the early decades, the hotel relied on a mix of high-end vehicles suited to the era, including American cars such as Ford Fairlanes and later Lincoln Continentals (some converted to right-hand drive), which provided reliable, spacious transport for airport runs and city transfers.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the fleet had diversified to meet different guest needs. Luxury sedans (including Jaguars, as seen in my 1974 photo with licence plate 3286) handled VIP arrivals, while practical, high-capacity vehicles were essential for airport baggage transfers, group tours, and regular guest shuttles from Kai Tak Airport. This is where the Volkswagen Kombi (Type 2) vans came in - the white, nine- or ten-seater microbuses with roof racks that I remember so well. Branded with “Peninsula Hotel” and route markings (e.g., Marco Polo, Peninsula Court, Hongkong Hotel, Repulse Bay), these VW vans were a common sight at the hotel entrance in the 1960s and 1970s. They were used primarily for baggage collection from Kai Tak, group airport pick-ups, sightseeing tours, and shuttle services to sister properties. Their reliability, spaciousness, and distinctive rounded shape made them perfect workhorses alongside the more formal limousines.
A major turning point came in 1970 when Lord Lawrence Kadoorie challenged his team to explore Rolls-Royce as an option for the main fleet. The result was an order for seven Rolls-Royce Silver Shadows in the now-iconic Peninsula Green - at the time, the largest single order Rolls-Royce had ever received. This launched a legendary partnership that continues to this day. Subsequent record-breaking orders followed: more Silver Shadows in 1976 and 1980, Silver Spirits in 1987, Silver Spurs in the 1990s, and the current fleet of 14 long-wheelbase Phantom Extended models (with six new bespoke units delivered in 2025).
There was a brief return to American Lincolns in the early 1980s, but Rolls-Royce has remained the flagship ever since. The fleet has since expanded with modern additions: the four Bentley Bentayga EWB Azure SUVs (2024), multiple latest-generation Toyota Alphard hybrid MPVs for practical luxury transfers, the restored 1934 Phantom II Sedanca de Ville (often displayed at the entrance), rooftop helicopter service, and the private custom World Star Ferry for harbour cruises.
I have it on good authority that the Hotels added Bentleys for the younger and very affluent set. I certainly do not mind, I love a nice Bentley!
The 1974 photo above perfectly captures this transitional era - the practical white VW Kombi on the left for tours and baggage, contrasted with the elegant Jaguar (or similar luxury sedan) on the right for distinguished guests. It’s a wonderful visual reminder of how the Peninsula has always balanced practicality with unparalleled glamour.
Current Fleet (as of 2026):
Rolls-Royce Phantom Extended14 long-wheelbase models - the cornerstone of the fleet. All finished in deep Peninsula Green with bespoke interiors. This includes the original fleet plus six new bespoke Phantoms delivered in April/May 2025, featuring updated technology and enhanced passenger comfort. These majestic sedans are the hotel’s flagship vehicles for airport transfers and special journeys.
Bentley Bentayga Extended Wheelbase (EWB) Azure SUVsFour bespoke units added in December 2024. These luxurious super-SUVs offer more space, higher seating, and refined features such as quilted leather, rear entertainment systems, and mood lighting - perfect for families, groups, or guests seeking a blend of presence and versatility.
Toyota Alphard Hybrid MPVsMultiple premium units (at least 3 - 4 active, with more in rotation). The latest-generation hybrid Alphards (as seen in my photo with plate ZH 2030) provide spacious six-seater comfort, excellent efficiency, and a more discreet luxury option. These brand-new vehicles are increasingly popular for airport transfers and city movements, striking the ideal balance between prestige and practicality.
Historic 1934 Rolls-Royce Phantom II Sedanca de Ville The grand old lady of the fleet (license plate 327). This fully restored vintage masterpiece is often displayed at the hotel entrance and available for special occasions. Acquired in 1994, it remains a beloved heritage icon that perfectly symbolizes the hotel’s nearly century-old legacy.
All vehicles are maintained to the highest standards and staffed by professional chauffeurs in traditional livery. The Peninsula’s fleet is not just transportation — it is an extension of the hotel’s legendary service and one of the most photographed aspects of any stay in Hong Kong.
Electric vehicle charging is also available on-site.
Additional Signature Experiences:
Helicopter Service from the Rooftop Helipads
The Peninsula Hong Kong is the only hotel in the city with private rooftop helipads (two helipads were added during the 1994 tower expansion). Helicopter sightseeing tours and private charters are operated by Heliservices (HK) Ltd, a company fully owned and controlled by the Kadoorie family, with Sir Michael Kadoorie serving as Chairman. Heliservices maintains a small premium fleet (currently around 3–4 helicopters, including new H135 models) and is the premier (and for all practical purposes the only) provider of rotary-wing sightseeing and private charter services based in Hong Kong.
(Note: Sky Shuttle operates very limited cross-border helicopter shuttles to Macau and Shenzhen, but these use a dedicated heliport in Sheung Wan and do not operate from the Peninsula or other hotel rooftops.)
The Custom World Star Ferry Experience
One of the most delightful ways to experience Victoria Harbour in true Peninsula style is aboard the World Star - a beautifully appointed and customised Star Ferry vessel operated in exclusive partnership with the historic Star Ferry Company (owned by Wharf Holdings). The Peninsula does not own the ferry outright, but has a special collaboration that allows them to offer refined Afternoon Tea voyages, Sunset Cocktail cruises, private charters, and other signature experiences on the water. Guests enjoy Peninsula-level service, live music, and harbour views while cruising between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central/Hong Kong Island. It’s a wonderful modern extension of the hotel’s legendary transport heritage..
Relevant and Interesting Facts about the Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong
The hotel is one of only 13 worldwide with a triple five-star Forbes rating and has been EarthCheck-certified for sustainability, banning shark fin early and reducing its carbon footprint by half through tech and practices.
It employs over 200 chefs across its outlets and features a 12,000-square-foot spa, Roman-style indoor pool, shopping arcade, music room, and business center.
Cultural programs via The Peninsula Academy include caviar tastings, artisan workshops (e.g., paper-tearing or lion dancing), and traditional Chinese medicine spa treatments., see below for a more detailed explanatio
A reimagined Fu dog statue by pop artist Jim Dime guards the entrance, blending heritage with modern art.
In 2025, it launched an "Art in Resonance" program collaborating with the Victoria & Albert Museum to support emerging artists.
The Peninsula Academy - Experiential Learning at Its Finest
No it is not staff training which was what I thought
The Peninsula Academy at The Peninsula Hong Kong is a guest-facing experiential programme — one of the most impressive parts of the hotel’s offering
One of the most impressive initiatives at The Peninsula Hong Kong is The Peninsula Academy, a bespoke programme created specifically for hotel guests (both adults and children). It offers unique, hands-on cultural and educational experiences that go far beyond standard hotel activities. Led by the hotel’s own experts and local masters, the Academy runs private or small-group sessions such as traditional Cantonese dim sum making in the Spring Moon kitchen, caviar tasting and connoisseurship, Chinese calligraphy, lion dance workshops, traditional Chinese medicine consultations, pastry and chocolate-making classes for kids, personal shopping and styling sessions, and even exclusive helicopter tours of the Hong Kong Geopark.
For the full current programme and booking details, visit: https://www.peninsula.com/en/hong-kong/peninsula-academy
It’s an outstanding way for guests to connect more deeply with Hong Kong’s heritage and culture while enjoying true Peninsula luxury.
Newsworthy Details Recent highlights include seasonal events like Valentine's Day romances, National Day feasts, and restorative autumn programs with traditional Chinese medicine at the spa. The popular sunset cocktail and afternoon tea cruises on the Star Ferry returned in 2025, offering live music and harbor views. Amid regional challenges, the hotel saw a 19% increase in revenue per available room in Q3 2025 due to higher occupancy, though average daily rates dipped slightly. Parent company Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels reported ongoing focus on experiential luxury, AI integration for personalized service, and flexible check-ins to adapt to evolving traveler preferences. In early 2026, a theft of a HK$838,000 watch from a guest room made headlines, with police investigating. Holiday 2025 celebrations featured pop-up Alpine dining and festive spa packages.
The Peninsula Hotels: A Global Portfolio of 12 Properties (as of 2026)
The Peninsula Hotels, operated by The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited, is one of the world’s most exclusive luxury chains. Every property in the portfolio maintains the brand’s signature blend of timeless elegance, impeccable service, and thoughtful local touches. The group was the first (and remains the only) luxury hotel brand to achieve a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating across its entire portfolio. In the latest Michelin Key Hotels guide (2025 ratings, still current in 2026), all 12 properties received recognition, with varying levels of distinction (e.g., Three Keys for London, Two Keys for several flagships including the Hong Kong and Shanghai properties).
Here’s the complete list, sorted chronologically by opening year:
The Peninsula Hong Kong (Hong Kong) - Opened 11 December 1928 The original “Grand Dame of the Far East.” 300 rooms and suites. The iconic flagship that defined the brand.
The Peninsula Manila (Makati, Philippines) - Opened 1976 469 rooms. Long-standing landmark in the Philippines.
The Peninsula New York (New York City, USA) - Opened 1988 235 rooms. Classic Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue.
The Peninsula Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills / Los Angeles, USA) - Opened 1991 195 rooms. Residential-style elegance in the heart of LA’s Golden Triangle.
The Peninsula Beijing (Beijing, China) - Opened 1996 230 rooms. Near the Forbidden City.
The Peninsula Bangkok (Bangkok, Thailand) - Opened 1998 370 rooms. Riverside retreat on the Chao Phraya River.
The Peninsula Chicago (Chicago, USA) - Opened 2001 339 rooms. On the Magnificent Mile.
The Peninsula Tokyo (Tokyo, Japan) - Opened 1 September 2007 314 rooms. Facing the Imperial Palace in Marunouchi.
The Peninsula Shanghai (Shanghai, China) - Opened 2009 235 rooms. Art Deco-inspired landmark on the historic Bund.
The Peninsula Paris (Paris, France) - Opened 2014 200 rooms. Haussmannian masterpiece near the Arc de Triomphe.
The Peninsula Istanbul (Istanbul, Turkey) - Opened February 2023 Waterfront property at Galataport on the Bosphorus.
The Peninsula London (London, UK) - Opened September 2023 190 rooms. Neo-classical gem in Belgravia’s Hyde Park Corner.
All properties are consistently awarded the highest accolades in luxury hospitality (Forbes Five-Star, Michelin Keys, and frequent appearances on “World’s Best” lists).
My Considered Opinion: How The Peninsula Hong Kong Stacks Up Against Other 5-Star Hotels in Hong Kong (2026 Perspective)
As a Hong Kong resident and someone who’s guided thousands of tours here, i already know the answer to this! and I always tell my guests that you cannot beat it’s location
The Peninsula Hong Kong remains the undisputed “Grande Dame” of Hong Kong luxury hotels. It stands out for its heritage, location, and theatrical arrival experience like no other. The colonial architecture, legendary afternoon tea in the soaring Lobby, the fleet of Peninsula-green Rolls-Royces (and now Bentleys and Alphards), and those unbeatable Kowloon-side harbour views still make it feel like the classic Hong Kong experience. It’s where history, glamour, and old-world service meet in one perfect package - and that emotional connection is hard to beat.
In the current 2026 landscape of ultra-competitive 5-star hotels in Hong Kong, here’s how it compares to the main rivals (all of which also hold Forbes Five-Star ratings) and these are my personal opinions, I am a big fan of most 5 star Hotels in Hong Kong and have a soft spot for the YMCA Salisbury Hotel next to the Peninsula Hotel
Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong & Landmark Mandarin Oriental → More centrally located (Central/IFC) and slightly more contemporary/elegant in feel. Excellent for business or shopping, with superb Cantonese dining. But they lack the Peninsula’s sense of history and that grand “arrival moment.” (in English, the lobby!)
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong → Sleek, modern, and perfectly positioned above IFC Mall with direct airport train access. Outstanding restaurants (Lung King Heen, Caprice). Feels more polished and efficient - but less characterful than the Pen. (but I did meet the Wu Tang Clan in this hotel and the Princess I did a tour with stayed there)
The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong & St. Regis Hong Kong → Sky-high (102nd floor for Ritz-Carlton) with jaw-dropping views. Very modern and dramatic. Great for wow-factor stays, but the Peninsula wins on timeless elegance and ground-level atmosphere, I really like the Ritz Carlton but the St. Regis is in a very odd location
Rosewood Hong Kong → The newest heavyweight (opened 2019, frequently voted among the world’s best). Ultra-luxurious, design-forward, and right next door in Tsim Sha Tsui. Many say it’s now the most “of-the-moment” option, but the Peninsula still edges it on heritage and that unmistakable “old Hong Kong” soul., I have been in the rooms of this hotel, very nice and very nice views!
Regent Hong Kong (reopened/revamped) → Stunning harbour views and strong Kowloon location. Excellent service, but the Peninsula’s brand legacy and consistency give it the edge for many repeat visitors. I have a history with the Regent that peaked in the early 1990’s and then it became an Intercontinental Hotel, I still love the lobby lounge!
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The Peak Tram + The Peak Tower | Owned by the Peninsula Hotel | Hong Kong
A Hidden Peninsula Hotel Connection Most Tourists Never Realise
Few visitors to Hong Kong have any idea that The iconic Peak Tram and The Peak Tower are both owned and operated by The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited (HSH) - the same company that owns The Peninsula Hotel Hong Kong.
Since acquiring the Peak Tramways Company, HSH has been responsible for this historic funicular railway (Asia’s first, opened in 1888) and the landmark Peak Tower at the upper terminus. When you ride the tram up for those breathtaking views, enjoy a meal, or buy souvenirs at the tower or you go to the Sky Terrace 428 for the view, you are quietly supporting the same Kadoorie-controlled group behind the Grand Dame of Kowloon.
You will note the new (2022) Peak Tram is the same green colour as the Rolls Royce’s at the Peninsula Hotel
The Peak Tower and the Menorah Theory One fascinating detail that often surprises visitors - particularly my Jewish guests - is the distinctive shape of the Peak Tower. Many people immediately see a strong resemblance to a traditional seven-branched Menorah, the ancient symbol of Judaism. Given that the Kadoorie family, who control The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels group, are of Iraqi Jewish heritage, this visual connection feels particularly meaningful to many of my clients I’ve guided over the years. I simply ask, “Do you know what the Peak Tower’s design reminds you of?” and the recognition is instant and I have not told them the story yet!
While the architect, Sir Terry Farrell, officially described the wok-like / bowl-shaped design as inspired by the natural contours of the site, Chinese temples, a boat, and a dove (with multiple multicultural interpretations), he has never publicly confirmed any Menorah symbolism. Whether intentional or a happy coincidence, it remains a delightful and thought-provoking detail for many who visit
It’s a wonderful example of how the Peninsula Hotel Group’s influence quietly extends into some of Hong Kong’s most iconic tourist experiences.
Noble House
Still my Favourite Book
A Literary Connection
Fans of James Clavell’s epic 1981 novel Noble House will be delighted to know that The Peninsula Hong Kong features in the story.
While the main characters stay at the fictional “Victoria and Albert Hotel” (widely believed to be based on the old Hong Kong Hilton), the real Peninsula is openly mentioned as one of the city’s iconic landmarks and is still here to this day
James Clavell knew the hotel very well - he actually stayed there during his research - and the 1988 TV miniseries adaptation even used the Peninsula Hotel for filming, with its grand lobby and famous green Rolls-Royces appearing on screen. A lovely literary nugget for any book lover visiting Hong Kong, you should stay at the Pen!
His research was exceptionally thorough in my humble opinion
For the record:
In 1963, James Clavell moved to Hong Kong with his wife April and their two young daughters. They lived there in an apartment for approximately one full year.
This extended stay was primarily to research his novel Tai-Pan (published in 1966), which is set in 1840s Hong Kong. He immersed himself in the city - talking to locals, studying old newspapers, court records, and historical documents - and absorbed the atmosphere, culture, and details that later made both Tai-Pan and Noble House (set in 1963) feel so authentic.
He had visited Hong Kong briefly before (around 1962), but the 1963 year-long residency was the deep-dive research period. He returned for shorter visits in later years while working on Noble House.
This is why the books feel so lived-in and accurate -th he didn’t just visit; he actually lived the setting for a full year with his family.
A Personal Hong Kong Memory
James Clavell’s dramatic landslide climax in Noble House was inspired by the real Kotewall Road disaster of 18th June 1972. I was just 11 years old at the time, living with my family in an apartment building right next to the one destroyed. We lost many friends that terrible night. My father and I drove down Kotewall Road in our Jaguar literally one minute before it was swept away. (the road and the apartment block next to ours) Even today, more than fifty years later, the memory still haunts me. It is a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be in this beautiful but unforgiving city - and why stories like Clavell’s, and places like The Peninsula Hotel, remain so important in preserving Hong Kong’s collective memory.
Jamie’s Hong Kong Insider Chat
AI Itinerary Rescue Service - Bring your AI-generated plan (or any self-designed itinerary) and I will spend the full two hours reviewing it with you. I’ll fix the impossible timings, suggest smarter routing, add interesting places that AI never finds, adjust for your group’s energy levels, and create a realistic, enjoyable day-by-day flow that actually works in real Hong Kong. Most guests leave saying “This is exactly what we needed”
I do not do Food Tours in Hong Kong but I know people that do!
I do not do food tours as mentioned above, I have very specific reasons and part of it is that I do not speak Cantonese or write Chinese, I am from Yorkshire in England and I lack the language gene and it is not through lack of trying and yes a lot of restaurants do not have English menu’s or staff who speak conversational English.
.. and yet I have eaten at close to 1,400 restaurants in Hong Kong since January 2nd 1972, my wife was born in Hong Kong and we have been together over 40 years and her first language is Cantonese and a lot of her family are Chinese or half Chinese so I have never had much of an issue!
This does not translate to doing food tours though, yes, I could do them, no problem there but they would never ever be as good as the food tours done by my friends (see the 3 links above) most of their awesome guides are locally born Hong Kong Chinese and obviously food culture is part of their DNA, it is impossible for me to compete with that!
So please feel free to contact them for food tours
I do not do Hiking Tours in Hong Kong but I know someone that does!
I do not do Hiking Tours, never have and never will even though I used to go Hiking a lot when I was a lot younger, The Hong Kong Government is promoting hiking tours so I urge you to contact my friend Sabrina at Hong Kong Trails and Tours, she is a long time Hong Kong resident and and a very experienced hiker with close to 700 Hikes in 15+ years under her belt, please click on the link below
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