One of the world’s longest escalators takes visitors up to a serene neighborhood with fresher air, upscale towers, shopping, parks and views.

The Mid-Levels district of Hong Kong is a prosperous and tranquil zone known for the scenic harmonization of its buildings with the forested mountains. Its topsy-turvy peaks are connected to the lower Central district via an innovative set of escalators. Explore the winding streets of this zone on foot and appreciate the stunning views of the rest of the island.

Ride the Mid-Levels Escalators up to the neighborhood from the Central area of Hong Kong. This outdoor covered escalator system is thought to be the world’s longest, running for 2,600 feet (800 meters). The conveyance delivers passengers downward in the early mornings for the daily commute, before changing direction for the rest of the day. If you’re going the opposite way, take the adjacent steps.

Stop at some of the many shops, cafés and restaurants lining the escalator, which has become an attraction in its own right. The system is made up of 20 individual escalators and three moving walkways, with many stops on the way to the top.

Once in the Mid-Levels region, revel in the youthful vibe of this area, which contains the University of Hong Kong at its western end. Visit the main building and admire the central clock tower and white domed roof.

The higher elevation benefits from fresher air nowhere is this more evident than in the Hong Kong Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Bring your kids to its children’s playground and huge aviary. Explore the exotic vegetation on display in the Fountain Terrace Garden of this 19th-century park. Continue this leafy theme at West End Park and see the military relics in Lung Fu Shan Country Park.

The district lies in the northwestern corner of Hong Kong Island. Take the escalator from its lower terminus near the metro stations of Hong Kong and Central.

Mid-Levels exudes comfort and sophistication, with its steps and escalators taking you high above city congestion.