One of the iconic and beloved “vintage” transport mode in Hong Kong is the Tram, operated by Hong Kong Tramways since 1904 with now a fleet of 165 tramcars carrying up to 200,000 passengers every day on Hong Kong Island.

The efforts of Hong Kong Tramways to develop a world-wide recognised icon, while offering the greenest and the most affordable and joyful transport mode in Hong Kong, have been acknowledged lately. Not only it has been awarded the title of “Largest double-decker tram fleet in service” by Guinness World Records, but its iconic green colour has just been recognised by Pantone Color Institute as the “HK Tram Green”.

According to Pantone Color Institute, this new green shade “HK Tram Green” is “a vivid and verdant deep grassy green that celebrates the heritage and cultural significance of HK Tramways and its unique distinction as a globally recognised iconic mobile landmark”.
Indeed, this green has been part of the city’s collective memory since the 1940s, where trams were painted in green using leftover paint from factories producing them in abundance for the military during World War II.

“Leveraging the power of color in design to preserve and celebrate the history and heritage of Hong Kong’s rich social and cultural past whilst simultaneously communicating a vision for the future, “HK Tram Green” showcases this globally renowned first of its kind mobile landmark as a pleasurable mode of transport, one whose ability to bring all people together nourishes our sense of connection to others and creates a welcoming feeling of community”, expressed Laurie Pressman, Vice-President of Pantone Color Institute.

Affectionately called “Ding Ding” by locals because of the sound of the bells, the Hong Kong trams are not only affordable and eco-friendly, but they also offer a unique experience for citizen to slow down in a busy city and to enjoy a time travel bubble.

Tram number 88 dressed as a Pantone colour chip