The Central–Mid-Levels Escalator and walkway system in Hong Kong is the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. The entire system covers over 800 metres in distance and the elevates is over 135 metres from bottom to top. It was constructed in 1993 to provide a better commute by linking areas within the Central and Western District on Hong Kong Island. Built in 1994, the Hong Kong Central-Mid-Levels escalator now carries upwards of 60,000 people a day.From 6 a.m. To 10 a.m. the escalator moves downhill and then uphill from 10.15 a.m.to 12 a.m.

　　The escalator reaches three stories at points and offers great views down into the wet markets and dai pai dongs below. At the end of the line, you’ll also get to see the jungle of housing skyscrapers in Mid-Levels, the preferred living quarters for expats. There are several junctions along the route meaning you can stop and take a few snaps of the sights below. The system is free and takes around 25 minutes one-way. For most city-dwellers, the daily commute is characterized by congested streets, packed subway cars, or perilous bike rides. But for many commuters traveling between Hong Kong’s Central and Mid-levels districts, the trip to and from work can be as easy as standing in place and holding the handrail while roughly a mile’s covered escalators and moving sidewalks moves them through the surrounding hills.
　　Plans for the Central-Mid-Levels escalator system were proposed in 1987 as a means of transporting a growing population through the island’s challenging slopes. Prior to the project’s completion in 1993, commuters were obliged to take a circuitous route consisting of several miles of zigzagging roads in order to travel between the two districts. The Central-Mid-Levels escalators introduced a pedestrian option that was much more direct. It takes roughly 20 minutes to cover the entire length of the network, which at times weaves its way through residential blocks as well as more commercial areas. Most commuters shorten the trip by walking some or all of the way while the escalators are in motion.

　　The escalators also provide a free, leisurely option for tourists looking to explore the area. Numerous entrances offer ample opportunities to enter and exit in order to investigate nearby restaurants, markets, and shops. Visitors should keep in mind that the system runs in one direction only — downhill during the morning rush hour and uphill from 10:30 am to midnight. A stairwell runs alongside the elevators, providing pedestrian access for those traveling in the opposite direction.