Holiday in Hong Kong March 2012 - Part 2

Welcome to the second portion of my vacation in Hong Kong in March 2012. This section will mainly explain my days of exploring Tsim Sha Tsui, journey on the Airport Express (MTR) Line & Victoria Peak, and another journey on the Airport Express & Tung Chung.

Part 1 ~ First Day of Explorations in Tsim Sha Tsui

On Saturday (10 March), I woke at around nine o' clock early that morning. After having a shower and changing up to start the day, the view of Victoria Harbour was rather beautiful, which made me take some pictures from my room. My mum and younger brother were still asleep by this time.

At around 9.15 a.m., while my brother and mum were still asleep, my dad and I decided to go all the way up to The Horizon Club for breakfast. With that, we took the elevator all the way up to the 20th and 21st floor, arriving there no later than 9.20 a.m.. Upon arriving at The Horizon Club, we went to a table, where the breakfast menus were provided for the two of us, and took some time to make our selections.

The morning view of Hong Kong Island from my hotel room on a cloudy Saturday morning

Nathan Road and the corniche by the island harbour sea facing towards Hong Kong Island

The interior of The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La during the mid-morning hours

The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La breakfast menu

After making a good review through the breakfast menus, a waiter came to my table to take our breakfast orders for the day. I ordered myself some scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausage, mushrooms, and hash browns. I also asked him to bring me some water and a glass of orange juice. Our breakfast and drinks were delivered to us after a while of waiting.

We then tucked in to our sumptuous breakfast courses. The scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausages, mushrooms, and hash browns tasted really tender and flavourful. It was one of the best breakfasts I have ever eaten in a hotel. My dad had to agree as well, since he too enjoyed his breakfast. I'd give Kowloon Shangri-La a 5-star rating for that.

Two glasses of water and orange juice for myself

My breakfast main course: Scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausage, mushrooms, and hash browns

My dad's main breakfast course: Minute-steak served with fried eggs, sautéed potatoes and backed tomato with pesto

Another view of The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La in the morning

The view of The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La in the morning before heading back down to our rooms

After having a hearty and mouthwatering breakfast in The Horizon Club, the clock was finally showing 10.10 a.m.. As we left the lounge for our Rooms No. 1126 and 1127, the attendants thanked us for our patronage, and told us that we could come up to The Horizon Club any time we wanted to.

Upon arrival back at our rooms by 10.30 a.m., my mum and younger brother were already awake. As they freshened themselves up for the day, we had some rest in the room prior to deciding to go exploring within the area near our hotel. By the time we were all ready to go out, it was already 11.45 a.m..

With that, we left our rooms at 11.55 a.m., and took the elevator all the way down towards the main hotel lobby. In the hotel lobby, we decided upon going to Tsim Sha Tsui Centre first. Once we left the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, we walked along the street towards the Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, browsing the mall for a good restaurant to eat at for lunch.

The main hotel lobby of the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel during the early afternoon hours

The streets of Mody Road near the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel

Finally stumbling upon AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant

After looking through the various restaurants available at Tsim Sha Tsui Centre, we finally stumbled upon a Japanese restaurant, known as AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant. Entering the restaurant and requesting a table for the four of us, a waiter ushered us into the restaurant and showed us to an empty table.

Once we were ushered to an empty table, we were left with the food and beverage menus for lunch. With these items in our hands, we decided to have a good review through them before placing our main meal orders for lunch on our first day in Hong Kong.

The exterior of AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant at Tsim Sha Tsui Centre

The cover page for the lunch menu of AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant at Tsim Sha Tsui Centre

The interior of AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant at Tsim Sha Tsui Centre

Reviewing the lunch menu of AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant at Tsim Sha Tsui Centre

After having a good review through the food and beverage lunch menus of AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant, a waiter finally came by to our table to take down our meal orders for lunch. We ordered several items off the menu that seemed to be suitable for our taste and preferences. That afternoon, we had a rather weird but filling Japanese lunch at AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant.

A plate of grilled meat coared with vegetables

A sashimi platter to be shared among us

A Japanese claypot dish to be shared among us

A salmon egg and sea urchin dish to be shared

A grilled yakitori platter to be shared among us

After having lunch at AKU Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant, the clock was finally showing 12.50 p.m.. Feeling quite stuffed to the brim, we simply requested for the bill. Once our bill had been paid up, we decided to head back towards the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, since there was nothing much to do later that afternoon.

Upon payment of our lunch bill, we left the restaurant at 12.55 p.m. for a short walk back to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. Arriving back at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel by one o' clock, we took the elevator all the way back up to our rooms located on the eleventh level. For the rest of the entire afternoon, we were simply left to our own devices and had the time of our lives.

The infrastructure of Mody Road near the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel on a cloudy afternoon

Our room chairs with a small table facing Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour

The morning view of Hong Kong Island from my hotel room on a cloudy afternoon

After having a very good afternoon rest in our hotel rooms for approximately close to five hours, the clock was finally showing six o' clock. Feeling rather bored, we decided to go up towards The Horizon Club Lounge before going out for dinner. With that, we left our rooms by 6.05 p.m. and took the elevator all the way up towards the 21st floor.

Arriving at The Horizon Club Lounge at 6.10 p.m., we immediately went to an empty table facing Hong Kong Island and Victoria Bay. While in the lounge, we had some liquors, tea and chocolates, as we enjoyed the evening view of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Bay.

The beautiful evening view of Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour from The Horizon Club Lounge

The self-service liquor bar in The Horizon Club Lounge

The overall interior of The Horizon Club Lounge during the early evening hours

A nice, refreshing glass of Bailey's Irish Cream for myself

The view of The Horizon Club Lounge from my table

A nice, warm pot of Earl Grey Tea for myself

A viking-shaped ship sailing through the waters near Victoria Harbour

The evening view of the financial business districts on Hong Kong Island

A small passenger ferry sailing through the waters near Victoria Harbour

After having some beverages and light bites in The Horizon Club Lounge, the clock was finally showing 6.30 p.m.. Feeling quite hungry for dinner already, we decided upon going to a steamboat restaurant located in Kimberly Road, by the name of Little Sheep Hot Pot. With that, we took the elevator all the way down towards the main hotel, and arranged for a cab to take us towards Kimberly Road.

Soon enough, a red cab finally showed up at the hotel's main entrance by 6.50 p.m.. Once we told the driver our intended destination, we hopped on board and departed the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. The entire journey between the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel and Kimberly Road took no more than just 10 minutes.

Arriving at Kimberly Road by seven o' clock, we paid our taxi fare and headed over towards a restaurant building. We then took the elevator up towards the second floor, where Little Sheep Hot Pot was located, arriving there by 7.05 p.m.. Soon enough, a waitress finally showed us towards an empty table, and left us with the food and beverage menus to make our reviews before placing our orders for dinner.

The main entrance to Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

The logo of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

The interior of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road from our table

The cover page for the food and beverage menu of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

Reviewing the food and beverage menu of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

After having a good review through the food and beverage menus, a waitress finally came by to our table to take down our main meal orders for lunch. We ordered several meat items off the menu that would suit our likings. As the hot pot was being set up on our table, several drinks were also provided for us. Once all the ordered meat items were delivered to our table, we had a nice Chinese steamboat dinner at Little Sheep Hot Pot that night.

Our steamboat hot pot with the broth placed on the hot pot pad in the centre of our table

Our first platter of sliced beef and lamb ready to be cooked in the hot pot

A platter of thinly-sliced pork ready to be cooked in the hot pot

A platter of sliced luncheon meat ready to be boiled in the hot pot

A platter of udon noodles ready to be boiled in the hot pot

A platter of large mushrooms ready to be boiled in the hot pot

Our second platter of sliced beef and lamb ready to be cooked in the hot pot

The broth boiling in the hot pot

A platter of beef liver ready to be boiled in the hot pot

A platter of beef balls ready to be boiled in the hot pot

A platter of Australian sliced beef ready to be boiled in the hot pot

Several meat sediments bubbling within the hot pot

Several meat and vegetables ready to be cooked within the hot pot

Several vegetable sediments bubbling within the hot pot

The interior of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road during dinner hours

After having a sumptuous Chinese steamboat dinner at Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant, the clock was finally showing 8.10 p.m.. Feeling rather stuffed to the brim, we simply requested for the bill before leaving the restaurant. Upon payment of our bill, we left the restaurant by 8.15 p.m. and took the elevator back down towards the first floor of the restaurant building.

We then headed over towards a nearby taxi stand, where we hailed a nearby cab in order to return to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. Soon enough, we finally departed the lively streets of Kimberly Road by 8.30 p.m. for a short journey time of 15 minutes towards the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel.

The logo of Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant in Kimberly Road

The night streets of Kimberly Road near Little Sheep Hot Pot Restaurant

The tall infrastructures near the night streets of Kimberly Road

The night streets of Kimberly Road

Travelling along Mody Road near the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel

Finally arriving back at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel

After a short 15-minute taxi ride from Kimberly Road, we finally arrived back at the main entrance to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel at 8.45 p.m.. Being sure to check that none of our belongings had been left behind, we paid the taxi driver and went into the hotel lobby. Once we were inside the hotel lobby, we took the elevator all the way to our eleventh floor rooms, arriving back there by nine o' clock. As soon as we were all in our rooms, we had a nice, hot shower before changing up for the night.

The main hotel lobby lounge of the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel during the late night hours

The main hotel lobby of the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel during the late night hours

The view of Nathan Road and Hong Kong Island with Victoria Harbour from my hotel room at night

The view of my bedroom shortly after we arrived back

The view of Hong Kong Island with Victoria Harbour from my hotel room at night

The view of my bedroom late at night

After having a nice, hot shower and changing up for the night, we were finally left towards our own devices to keep us company. I then did some stuff on my laptop before setting my mobile phone alarm for 8.30 a.m. the next morning. We then finally turned in slightly past midnight for a good night's rest.

Part 2 ~ Airport Express (MTR) & Victoria Peak

On Sunday (11 March), I woke up at 8.30 a.m. after a good night's sleep the previous night. This day, being 11 March, marked the first anniversary of the horrific Tohoku-Pacific Ocean tsunami in Japan the previous year.

After having a shower and doing some stuff on my laptop computer, I decided to go upstairs to The Horizon Club on the 21st floor for a hearty breakfast. Once I arrived at The Horizon Club, a waitress welcomed and escorted me to a table facing both Hong Kong Island and Victoria Harbour. She then provided me with the breakfast menu, and gave me some time to make my selections.

A waiter then came to my table to take my breakfast order for the day. I ordered myself some scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausage, mushrooms, and hash browns. I also asked him to bring me some earl grey tea and a glass of orange juice.

My breakfast and drinks were delivered to me after a while of waiting. I then tucked in to my sumptuous breakfast. Again, the scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausages, mushrooms, and hash browns tasted really tender and flavourful. It was one of the best breakfasts I have ever eaten in a hotel. I'd give Kowloon Shangri-La a 5-star rating for that.

A view of Hong Kong Island, with the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in the background, in the morning

The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La breakfast menu

The interior of The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La during the mid-morning hours

A cup of earl grey tea and a glass of orange juice on my breakfast table

My breakfast main course: Scrambled eggs with soft bacon, veal sausage, mushrooms, and hash browns

Another view of The Horizon Club Kowloon Shangri-La in the morning

After a hearty and filling breakfast, I thanked the staff and went back down to my room to do a final battery charge of my necessary electronic devices for the day. I then left the room to walk to Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station by 9.35 a.m.. My itinerary for the day would be to take the Tsuen Wan MTR Line between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central Hong Kong, and change to the Airport Express there.

However, the nearest MTR station towards the Kowloon Shangri-La was East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, serving the West Rail Line (formerly KCR West Rail). Both East Tsim Sha Tsui and Tsim Sha Tsui Stations are connected to each other via a passageway between the two stations. I have known the MTR lines in Hong Kong very well since December 2005, when I first went there. Since September 2009, my three core MTR lines are the Airport Express, Tsuen Wan Line and Tung Chung Line.

The entrance to East Tsim Sha Tsui Station

The passageway between East Tsim Sha Tsui and Tsim Sha Tsui Stations

The MTR system map in the passageway between East Tsim Sha Tsui and Tsim Sha Tsui Stations

The entrance to the Tsuen Wan Line concourse of Tsim Sha Tsui Station

The Tsuen Wan Line concourse of Tsim Sha Tsui Station

Once I arrived at Tsim Sha Tsui Station, I went to the customer service counter to top up my Octopus Card for HK$300. After topping up my Octopus Card, I went down to the platform to catch the nearest Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Central Station. By 9.50 a.m., I was on my way to Central Hong Kong.

The Tsuen Wan Line platform of Tsim Sha Tsui Station

The sign above the platform screen doors of Tsim Sha Tsui Station indicating the direction to Central

The interior of a Tsuen Wan Line MTR M-Stock train between Tsim Sha Tsui and Admiralty

At Admiralty Station

The MTR route map in an MTR M-Stock train

The interior of a Tsuen Wan Line MTR M-Stock train between Admiralty and Central

After 5 minutes of travelling from Tsim Sha Tsui on the Tsuen Wan Line, I finally arrived at Central Station at 9.55 a.m.. Determined to catch the Airport Express train which would leave at 10.20 a.m., I immediately took an escalator up to the passageway between Central and Hong Kong Stations.

The Airport Express is my most favourite MTR line in Hong Kong. It is very comfortable, quiet, and not so crowded (except during rush hours). Hanging out on this MTR line also helps to relieve my mind of certain things. I usually go for a maximum of three rounds each day I use it when on vacation in Hong Kong. For every second round, I would stop at the airport for a brief lunch, drink, bathroom, and commercial aviation model shopping break.

On the Airport Express, I usually like to film videos on the sectors mostly between Tsing Yi Station and Hong Kong International Airport. Of the 8-car configuration, I mainly find seats in Car No. 1 for the journey towards AsiaWorld-Expo end, and the seat patterns vary on the return trip to Central Hong Kong.

The Tsuen Wan Line platforms of Central Station

The busy hustle and bustle of Central Station in the late morning hours

The sign in Central Station leading to the Airport Express platforms at Hong Kong Station

The passageway between Central and Hong Kong Stations

The Airport Express (Traditional Chinese: 機場快綫; Simplified Chinese: 机场快线) is one of the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) lines serving Hong Kong. It mainly links the major urban districts of Hong Kong to Hong Kong International Airport, and the AsiaWorld-Expo exhibition and convention centre.

Although it is part of the MTR system, the Airport Express is NOT a traditional rapid transit line. Instead, it is dedicated express rail service to and from the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo. Since the start of the revised Airport Express timetable on 15 January 2012, the service frequency is every 10 minutes during the morning, daylight, and evening hours, and 12 minutes during the late night hours.

The Airport Express line currently uses 11 8-car A-Stock train sets, manufactured by Adtranz and CAF in Spain. The first 7 cars have 2 doors on each side, and the Car No. 8 (K Car) functions as the baggage container car. They appear to be very similar to the A-Stock trains used on the more conventional and commuter Tung Chung Line. However, the only difference is that the trains look more like luxury express trains than normal commuter trains. A typical Airport Express 8-car configuration would be E100-F100-G100-H200-F200-G200-J400-K400.

Passengers travelling on the Airport Express can use the in-town check-in service for flights for selected airlines and receive boarding passes for their flights at Hong Kong and Kowloon Stations, with no extra cost. Free Airport Express shuttle buses from Hong Kong and Kowloon Stations are available. They mainly travel to major hotels in Hong Kong Island, Yau Tsim Mong District, and to Hung Hom Station.

Because of the relatively high fares and small catchment areas on the Airport Express, some travellers may opt to take the cheaper, local Tung Chung Line, combined with a bus or taxi route to reach their desired destinations whenever possible. They may also use other methods of transport to reach their destinations. The Airport Express is also usable with the Octopus Card.

As soon as I arrived at Hong Kong Station, I had to go through a ticket gate in the Tung Chung Line concourse and take the elevator up to the Airport Express concourse. I also had to go through another ticket gate on the Airport Express platform itself. I was on the platform at 10.05 a.m., with 15 minutes to spare before my 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train.

Hong Kong Station is one of the major railway stations of the MTR network in Hong Kong. It serves as the eastern terminus for the Airport Express and Tung Chung Lines, and is located between Man Cheung Street and Harbour View Street, Central, Hong Kong Island, and sits underneath the International Finance Centre. The station is directly connected to Central Station via two passageways, with the walk taking approximately two to five minutes.

The Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station

The Airport Express ticket gate in Tung Chung Line concourse of Hong Kong Station

The elevator to the Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station

The Airport Express ticketing gates of Hong Kong Station

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station, with a train about to depart at 10.10 a.m.

The departure information screen showing the departure time for my train

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station, while waiting for my train

After a few minutes of waiting, the Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo, which would leave at 10.20 a.m., finally arrived at Hong Kong Station. I immediately boarded the train, grabbed a seat in Car No. 1 (E101) at the AsiaWorld-Expo end, and settled in for the beginning of the first round. I would then move to Car No. 7 (the Hong Kong end) between the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo, or after arrival at AsiaWorld-Expo, in preparation for the Central Hong Kong-bound sectors.

The 10.20 a.m. Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo just after arriving at Hong Kong Station

The interior of the Airport Express train in Car No. 1 (E101), where I mainly take a seat for the Hong Kong to Hong Kong International Airport and AsiaWorld-Expo sectors

The carry-on baggage storage rack on the Airport Express

The train section router on the Airport Express train

At exactly 10.20 a.m., the train doors were closed and the Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo via Hong Kong International Airport pulled out of Hong Kong Station. I then began my first Airport Express round of the day. Here are some pictures and videos during the first half of my first Airport Express round of the day.

The interior of the Airport Express train in Car No. 1 (E101), shortly before departing Hong Kong Station

The carry-on baggage storage rack on the Airport Express, between Hong Kong and Kowloon Stations

Arriving at Kowloon Station

機場快綫 (E101) 行走片段 九龍至機場 (KOW TO AIR) (1/2)

機場快綫 (E101) 行走片段 九龍至機場 (KOW TO AIR) (2/2)

The Airport Express Car No. 1 (E101) interior while at Hong Kong International Airport Station

The train section router on the Airport Express train while at the airport

Track No. 1 of Hong Kong International Airport Station, as seen from the train

The Regal Airport Hotel at Hong Kong International Airport

Arriving at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station

After a 28-minute train ride from Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station at 10.48 a.m.. I then walked over to Car No. 7 (J401) in preparation for the journey back to Central Hong Kong to begin my second round. The train would depart AsiaWorld-Expo at 10.54 a.m. for another 28-minute journey to Central Hong Kong.

The station platform of AsiaWorld-Expo Station

The Airport Express Car No. 7 (J401) interior

The disused station platform of AsiaWorld-Expo Station

After six minutes of waiting, the Airport Express train finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station at 10.54 a.m. for the 28-minute journey to Central Hong Kong to begin my second round. More passengers began to board the train at Hong Kong International Airport Station. These are some pictures and videos during the second half of my first round.

At Track No. 2 of Hong Kong International Airport Station

The carry-on baggage storage racks while at the airport

機場快綫 (J401) 行走片段 機場至九龍 (AIR TO KOW) (1/2)

The TV information screen and router map on the Airport Express while at Tsing Yi

The Hong Kong-bound Airport Express platform of Tsing Yi Station, as seen from the train

機場快綫 (J401) 行走片段 機場至九龍 (AIR TO KOW) (2/2)

The Airport Express carry-on baggage rack while at Kowloon Station in the direction towards Hong Kong

The Airport Express platform towards the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo, as seen from the train bound for Hong Kong

After 28 minutes from AsiaWorld-Expo, I finally arrived at the Hong Kong terminal station at 11.22 a.m. to begin my second round. As I knew, I had to stop at the airport to shop for some aviation models and have lunch, before resuming my journeys. Once at the station, I walked over to Car No. 1 (E101) at the AsiaWorld-Expo end and quickly grabbed my usual seating spot. I sat back for the journey to the airport, while waiting for departure at 11.30 a.m..

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station, just before I was on board Car No. 1

My usual seating area in Car No. 1 (E101) on the Airport Express train

The carry-on baggage storage rack on the Airport Express, while waiting for an 11.30 a.m. departure from Central Hong Kong

The train section router on the Airport Express train, while waiting for an 11.30 a.m. departure from Central Hong Kong

After most of the passengers boarded the train, we finally pulled out of Hong Kong Station at 11.30 a.m., as planned. I then began my second Airport Express round of the day. Here are some pictures and videos during the first half of my second round.

機場快綫 (E101) 行走片段 香港至九龍 (HOK TO KOW)

The Airport Express platform towards the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo, as seen from the train

The train about to pass through Olympic Station

One of the scenes between Olympic and Nam Cheong Stations

Passing by Nam Cheong Station

Catching up with a Tung Chung Line A-Stock train bound for Tung Chung

Racing with the Tung Chung Line A-Stock train bound for Tung Chung on the viaduct between Nam Cheong and Lai King Stations

The Tung Chung Line entering the tunnel to Lai King Station, whereas my Airport Express train entering the Airport Express passage tunnel of Lai King Station

The empty Airport Express carry-on baggage rack between Lai King and Tsing Yi

Crossing the Rambler Channel

Arriving at Tsing Yi Station

機場快綫 (E101) 行走片段 青衣至機場 (TSY TO AIR)

After a 24-minute journey on the Airport Express from Central Hong Kong, I finally arrived at Hong Kong International Airport at 11.54 a.m.. Both the train doors opened on both sides. The left exit led to Terminal 1, while the right exit led to Terminal 2. I then alighted the train on the left side.

Track No. 1 of Hong Kong International Airport Station

An overall view of Hong Kong International Airport Station

The entrance to the Terminal 1 Departure Area from Hong Kong International Airport Station

I then made my way to a hobby shop known as Toys & Games. There were various aviation models in a glass display. Immediately, I went inside to see what was in stock. From the shop, I managed to purchase four new Herpa commercial aviation aircraft models, all of which are Airbus A340s. After a quick shopping, I went to the bathroom and then to Burger King in the arrival hall for something to eat as I was feeling hungry. My meal at Burger King was rather filling. As for my new aircraft models, they were:

1) Cathay Pacific Airbus A340-313X Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)

Cathay Pacific Airbus A340-313X Herpa Scale 1:500 (CXcitement Exclusive)

2) Cathay Pacific Airbus A340-313X "Oneworld" Herpa Scale 1:500 (504768)

Cathay Pacific Airbus A340-313X "Oneworld" Herpa Scale 1:500 (504768)

3) Etihad Airways Airbus A340-642 "Formula 1 - Abu Dhabi 2011" Herpa Scale 1:500 (518789)

Etihad Airways Airbus A340-642 "Formula 1 - Abu Dhabi 2011" Herpa Scale 1:500 (518789)

4) Swiss International Air Lines Airbus A340-313X Herpa Scale 1:500 (507493)

Swiss International Air Lines Airbus A340-313X Herpa Scale 1:500 (507493)

On the automated walkway to the Terminal 1 departure area of Hong Kong International Airport

The Toys & Games hobby shop in Hong Kong International Airport

The Terminal 1 departure area of Hong Kong International Airport

The Terminal 1 arrival area of Hong Kong International Airport

The sign of Burger King at Hong Kong International Airport

The Terminal 1 arrival area of Hong Kong International Airport, as seen from Burger King

My quick meal at Burger King Hong Kong International Airport

An overall view of Burger King at Hong Kong International Airport

As soon as I finished my meal, I quickly walked over towards Hong Kong International Airport Station to resume my second round on the Airport Express. I decided to board the train which would leave the airport at 12.59 p.m. for Central Hong Kong to begin my third and final round of the day.

The entrance to Hong Kong International Airport Station, as seen from the arrival hall

The 12.38 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong about to depart from Track No. 2 at Hong Kong International Airport Station

Airport Express Track No. 2 towards Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station

Airport Express Track No. 2 towards Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station, with a 12.48 p.m. Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong about to depart

Airport Express Track No. 2 towards Central Hong Kong at Hong Kong International Airport Station, just before my 12.59 p.m. Airport Express train arrived

After 20 minutes of waiting, the 12.59 p.m. Airport Express train, bound for Central Hong Kong, finally entered Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.55 p.m., on Track No. 2. Immediately, I boarded the train and grabbed a seat in Car No. 7 (J410) towards the Hong Kong end. I then settled in for the 24-minute journey on my second round back to Central Hong Kong to begin my third and final round of the day.

The interior of Car No. 7 of the Airport Express train while at the airport

The carry-on baggage storage racks while at the airport and waiting for departure

After waiting for approximately three minutes, the train finally pulled out of Hong Kong International Airport Station at 12.59 p.m., as planned. I was then on my way back to Central Hong Kong to begin my third and final Airport Express round of the day. Here are some pictures and videos during the second half of my second round.

機場快綫 (J410) 行走片段 機場至青衣 (AIR TO TSY)

The carry-on baggage rack on the Airport Express towards Central Hong Kong, while at Tsing Yi Station

The Airport Express platform of Tsing Yi Station, in the direction towards Central Hong Kong, as seen from the train

Crossing the Rambler Channel on the way to Central Hong Kong

On the viaduct between Tsing Yi and Lai King Stations

Nearing Lai King Station

Bypassing Nam Cheong Station, meeting up with a Tung Chung Line A-Stock train bound for Tung Chung

Nearing Olympic Station

Arriving at Kowloon Station

The empty carry-on baggage rack on the Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong at Kowloon Station

機場快綫 (J410) 行走片段 九龍至香港 (KOW TO HOK)

After 24 minutes on the train from Hong Kong International Airport, I finally arrived at Hong Kong terminal station at 1.23 p.m. (13 23) to begin my third and final round of the day. I then did my usual carriage changeover to Car No. 1 (E110) for the journey to AsiaWorld-Expo. The train would then leave Central Hong Kong at 1.30 p.m. (13 30) for the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo.

An overall view of the Airport Express track of Hong Kong Station

Car No. 1, my usual Airport Express seating area towards AsiaWorld-Expo

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station, while waiting for a 1.30 p.m. departure

At exactly 1.30 p.m. (13 30), the train pulled out of Hong Kong Station, and I began my third and final Airport Express round of the day. Here are some images and videos I have taken during the first half of my third and final round.

The empty carry-on baggage rack of the Airport Express between Hong Kong and Kowloon Stations

Arriving at Kowloon Station

機場快綫 (E110) 行走片段 九龍至機場 (KOW TO AIR) (1/2)

機場快綫 (E110) 行走片段 九龍至機場 (KOW TO AIR) (2/2)

The cabin of the Airport Express train bound for AsiaWorld-Expo while at the airport

The Regal Airport Hotel Hong Kong International Airport hidden behind the road bridge and some trees

One of the runways at Hong Kong International Airport, as seen from the Airport Express

After 28 minutes, I finally arrived at AsiaWorld-Expo terminal at 1.58 p.m. (13 58). I alighted the train and did my usual carriage shift to Car No. 7 (J410) towards the Hong Kong end. The train would then depart AsiaWorld-Expo at 2.04 p.m. (14 04) to head back to Central Hong Kong.

The station platform of the AsiaWorld-Expo terminal station

The station name plate of AsiaWorld-Expo Station

Car No. 7 interior of the Airport Express at AsiaWorld-Expo Station

After 5 minutes of waiting, the Airport Express train finally pulled out of AsiaWorld-Expo Station at exactly 2.04 p.m. (14 04) for another 28-minute journey to Central Hong Kong. I knew that my Airport Express rounds of the day would be completed once I arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station. Here are some images and videos I have taken during the second half of my third and final round.

Approaching Hong Kong International Airport Station

Arriving at Hong Kong International Airport Station on Track No. 2

One of the cabin views of the Airport Express bound for Central Hong Kong

機場快綫 (J410) 行走片段 機場至九龍 (AIR TO KOW) (1/2)

機場快綫 (J410) 行走片段 機場至九龍 (AIR TO KOW) (2/2)

The Airport Express platform towards the airport and AsiaWorld-Expo, as seen from the Airport Express train heading towards Central Hong Kong

The Airport Express route indication map showing that the train is at Kowloon Station

The carry-on baggage rack on the Airport Express train bound for Central Hong Kong while waiting for departure from Kowloon Station

After 28 minutes from AsiaWorld-Expo, I finally arrived back at the Hong Kong terminal station at 2.32 p.m. (14 32). I finally completed all my three Airport Express rounds of the day. I then alighted the train and snapped some more images before going through the ticket gate.

The interior of the Airport Express train just after arrival at the Hong Kong terminal

The Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station just after I alighted

Another view of the Airport Express platform of Hong Kong Station

The Airport Express concourse of Hong Kong Station

After taking my usual photographs, I decided to head back to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel by taking the Tsuen Wan Line back to Tsim Sha Tsui from Central Station. Knowing that I was to have a family dinner at Cafe Deco Victoria Peak later that night, I had to charge my portable electronic devices and rest in the hotel room.

I then took the elevator back down to the Tung Chung Line concourse, and walked along the passageway between Hong Kong and Central Stations. These are some pictures on the way to the Tsuen Wan Line platforms of Central Station.

The Airport Express ticket gates in the Tung Chung Line concourse

The concourse and shops in Hong Kong Station, near the passageway towards Central Station

On the automated walkway in the passageway between Hong Kong and Central Stations

The Island Line platform towards Chai Wan of Central Station

As soon as I reached the Tsuen Wan Line platforms, I caught the nearest Tsuen Wan Line train bound for Tsuen Wan. I departed Central Station at 2.45 p.m., reaching back at Tsim Sha Tsui Station at 2.50 p.m..

The Tsuen Wan Line station platform of Central Station

The Tsuen Wan Line route map above the platform screen doors at Central Station

Part of the MTR system map found on a Tsuen Wan Line M-Stock train

The interior of the Tsuen Wan Line M-Stock train bound for Tsuen Wan

The Tsuen Wan Line station platforms of Tsim Sha Tsui Station

As soon as I arrived at Tsim Sha Tsui Station at 2.50 p.m., I walked through the ticket gate and along the passageway to East Tsim Sha Tsui Station to reach the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. The walk was rather challenging as I unknowingly took a longer route.

The ticketing concourse at Tsim Sha Tsui Station

The West Rail Line ticketing gates at East Tsim Sha Tsui Station

The exterior view of the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, as seen from East Tsim Sha Tsui Station

After finding the correct exit at East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, I finally arrived back at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel at 3.10 p.m.. I then took the elevator back up to my hotel room and charged my electronic devices while resting.

The Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel lobby and lounge

An old pirate ship sailing in the sea between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island

A view of Hong Kong Island from my hotel room on a foggy evening

At around close to 6 o' clock, my parents and younger brother came back from their shopping trip. My dad then told me that he made a reservation for 4 people at Cafe Deco located at Victoria Peak (Chinese: 太平山) at 8 o' clock later that night. So we all had a good rest in the hotel room for a while.

A view of our living room in the evening

A view of the room I shared with my brother

After having a good rest, the clock suddenly struck 6.15 p.m.. We decided to head to Victoria Peak to do some shopping at The Peak Galleria (Chinese: 山頂廣場). Immediately, we took the elevator down to the lobby, and asked for the bellboy to hail a taxi for us.

Once the taxi arrived, the bellboy told the driver our destination, which was to Victoria Peak. We then boarded the taxi and we were finally on our way to Victoria Peak. We would be crossing the Cross-Harbour Tunnel between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island, and climbing up the roads leading to Victoria Peak.

Victoria Peak (Chinese: 太平山), most commonly known as The Peak, is one of the mountains in Hong Kong. It is quite popular among both foreigners and locals as it offers spectacular views over Central, Victoria Harbour, and the surrounding islands. This makes it one of our favourite landmarks in Hong Kong.

The Peak is easily accessible via The Peak Tram, which links between Garden Road Station at the base, and The Peak, located at the summit. Two shopping centers, which are The Peak Galleria and Peak Tower, are available to cater to the people's shopping needs. Usually, the best time to visit The Peak would be at night, as the night views of Hong Kong are extremely spectacular and breathtaking.

Making our way to the Cross-Harbour Tunnel

Getting closer to the Cross-Harbour Tunnel

About to enter the crowded Cross-Harbour Tunnel

Finally in Hong Kong Island after crossing the Cross-Harbour Tunnel

Passing by several hotels in Hong Kong Island

The Bank of China Tower in Hong Kong

Climbing up a lighted and steep road towards Victoria Peak

Climbing up another lighted and steep road towards Victoria Peak

Approaching the taxi stand at The Peak Galleria

After a 25-minute journey from the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, we finally arrived at The Peak Galleria at 6.55 p.m. at the mall's taxi stand. My dad then paid the taxi fare, and we all alighted the taxi. We then did some shopping around The Peak Galleria before heading to Cafe Deco for dinner.

The taxi stand at The Peak Galleria

The overall interior view of The Peak Galleria

The Peak Tower in a foggy Victoria Peak

The Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria

The entrance to The Peak Galleria

The sign welcoming people to The Peak Galleria just beside the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour

The various ice cream flavours in the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria

Inside the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria

A cup of chocolate chocolate chip ice cream for myself in the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour at The Peak Galleria

After having some ice cream at the Häagen-Dazs ice cream parlour, my parents and brother met me there to have a sit down for a chat. We then went to Cafe Deco for dinner at around 7.30 p.m., but not without looking at some shops for a while.

The television advertisement about Cafe Deco Victoria Peak at the cafeteria's entrance

The sign of Cafe Deco outside the upper entrance on the top floor of The Peak Galleria

The top floor of The Peak Galleria

The entrance to Cafe Deco located on the top floor of The Peak Galleria

At 7.40 p.m., we entered Cafe Deco. A waitress at the reservation counter came to check our names correctly. Once we were confirmed, she directed us to our table in the lower floor of the cafe, and supplied us with menus. We then had a look through the menus before making our orders.

The upper floor of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

The Peak Tower covered in fog, as seen from the restaurant

The overall view of Hong Kong Island totally covered in fog at night

The food and beverage menus of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria resting on my table

The overall food menu of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

A closer look into the main dishes page of the food menu of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

A picture of the lower floor Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

Another picture of the lower floor Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

A closer look into my desired main dish in the food menu of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

The overall beverage menu of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

A waiter then came to our table to take our orders. We ordered a variety of sides and main dishes, along with certain beverages. Here are some pictures of our meals I took. The service at Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria was top notch, and flawless. It was indeed a huge feast.

My mum's lobster-flavoured soup

A platter of oysters

Futomaki sushi served on a stand

My main dish: Cafe Deco Mixed Grill

A plate of rib-eye steak

A plate of french fries

A plate of sautéed mushrooms

A plate of mashed potatoes

A plate of pizza

An overall view of our dishes

An overall picture of the lower floor Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

The staircase leading to the upper floor of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

The oyster bar on the upper floor of Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

An overall picture of the upper floor Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

Another picture of the lower portion Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria

After the sumptuous dinner feast at Cafe Deco @ The Peak Galleria, we decided to head back to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. We then paid our bill and went to The Peak Station to take the Victoria Peak Tram down to Garden Road terminal.

The entrance to The Victoria Peak Tram The Peak Station

The entrance to The Peak Galleria from The Victoria Peak Tram The Peak Station

The Peak Tram (Chinese: 山頂纜車) is a funicular railway in Hong Kong, which carries both tourists and locals to the upper levels of Hong Kong Island. It offers good views of the harbour and skyscrapers of Hong Kong, thus being crowded almost daily.

As soon as my family purchased their Peak Tram tickets, we were on the platform at 9.20 p.m. to wait for the nearest Peak Tram. At 9.25 p.m., the tram arrived and we boarded it, along with several other passengers. We then pulled out of The Peak Station at 9.30 p.m., heading down to the Garden Road Terminal.

The Peak Tram station platform of the Peak Station

The Peak Tram at the station platform of the Peak Station

The interior of the Peak Tram

The driver's cab at the front (upper) part of the Peak Tram

Hong Kong Victoria Peak Tram - The Peak to Garden Road

After a short ride of five minutes on the Peak Tram, we finally arrived at the Garden Road Terminal station at 9.35 p.m.. We then hailed a taxi back to the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel, via the Cross-Harbour Tunnel once again.

About to enter the Cross-Harbour Tunnel from Hong Kong Island

Inside the Cross-Harbour Tunnel in the direction to Kowloon

Approaching the toll area just after exiting the Cross-Harbour Tunnel

A view of the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel at night

After a half-an-hour taxi ride from Hong Kong Island, we finally arrived back at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel at 10 o' clock late that night. We then took the elevator back up to our 11th floor rooms, had a shower, did some stuff and went to bed by around 1 o' clock in the morning.

It was indeed an enjoyable ride on the Airport Express for me, and a good time at Victoria Peak on this day. For all Japanese citizens affected by the March 11 Tohoku-Pacific Ocean tsunami in 2011, I would like to offer my deepest sympathies and condolences. R.I.P. (Rest In Peace) to those who lost their lives in the 2011 Tohoku-Pacific Ocean Tsunami.

This officially brings the second section of my vacation in Hong Kong in March 2012 to a close. The remaining two sections will be published with the best quality pictures and videos.