Name: Guided Tram Party" from Western to North Point on a tram on Hong Kong's developing urban geography
Start: 2026-05-26T18:30:00+08:00
End: 2026-05-26T21:00:00+08:00
Location: Witty Street , Kennedy Town

Guided Tram Party" from Western to North Point on a tram on Hong Kong's developing urban geography

The Hong Kong tram system has been running ever since 1904. It is the world’s largest double decker tram fleet in operation and carries an average of 200,000 passengers every day. The Hong Kong trams are also the only on-land vehicle in the city to emit zero roadside emissions making it the greenest mode of public transport in Hong Kong.

Professor Ben Gerlofs is set to deliver an engaging talk on the urban geography of Hong Kong, focusing on the evolving landscapes of Kennedy Town and Sai Ying Pun.

In 2014, three new MTR stations were opened in these neighbourhoods, since which they have experienced a profound shift, witnessing the rise of trendy bars and upscale dining establishments, that have reshaped the area into a vibrant and sought-after locale for millennials and expats alike.

However, this transformation has ignited a thoughtful dialogue among residents, exposing worries regarding the impact of gentrification on the community. Ben delves into these tensions, exploring the challenges faced by residents and the possibility of ensuring a delicate balance between economic development and the preservation of local character.

Dr Ben Gerlofs is from the United States and is an assistant Professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Hong Kong. He received his PhD from Rutgers University, his MA from Syracuse University and his BA from Aquinas College, all in the USA. Prior to moving to Hong Kong, he was a Postdoctoral Research Associate at Princeton University, a Visiting Assistant Professor at Dartmouth College and a Lecturer the City University of New York, all in the USA.

Rupert McCowan is a British geographer, financier, explorer and Director of the Royal Geographical Society – Hong Kong. Educated at Eton College and Oxford University, he spent 17 years in finance before moving to geography and exploration. His recent journeys include a camel trek across the Sahara and expeditions to Lake Turkana. Rupert also founded and owns Asian Capital Consultancy Inc., advising on urban development and heritage property. A former British reserve forces member who saw active service in Cyprus, he has lived in Hong Kong for 30 years and is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, the Royal Asiatic Society and the Explorers Club.
Details:
6:30pm – 9:00pm
Meet at Whitty Street Tram Depot
Round trip from Whitty Street to North Point
Cost:
Members and their guests are most welcome to attend this event, which is HK$480 for Members and HK$580 for their guests, including free-flow wines and snacks in a Tram.

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The opinions expressed in this talk are those of the speaker and do not necessarily reflect those of the Royal Geographical Society - Hong Kong.