Cover Lavish villas nestled in The Peak’s exclusive enclave (Photo: Martin Chan).
Lavish villas nestled in The Peak’s exclusive enclave (Photo: Martin Chan).
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The Peak is one of the most prestigious addresses in the world, home to a constellation of powerful individuals—including Evergrande founder Hui Ka Yan and Alibaba’s co-founder Jack Ma.
On 17 March 2025, a spokesperson for the Hong Kong-based Henderson Land Group confirmed the passing of its founder, billionaire Lee Shau Kee, at the age of 97. A towering figure in Asia’s real estate landscape, he had long been counted among the continent’s wealthiest individuals. As recently as February 2025, he ranked second in Hong Kong’s rich list, with a fortune estimated at USD 30 billion.
Lee Shau Kee’s influence stretched far beyond bricks and mortar. His story—from modest beginnings to becoming a real estate titan—has served as inspiration for countless aspiring entrepreneurs. In 1996, he was not only Asia’s wealthiest individual, with a net worth of USD 12 billion, but also the fourth richest man globally, following Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and Paul Sacher.
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Since 2019, he had gradually passed the reins of Henderson Land Group to his two sons, Li Ka-shing and Lee Ka-kit. The family continues to reside in one of The Peak’s stately villas—an address known for attracting the world’s financial elite.
The Peak: Among the most expensive neighbourhoods on the planet
In 2010, Lee Shau Kee’s youngest son, Li Ka-shing, acquired a prime plot at 35 Baker Street on The Peak via private auction. The winning bid—USD 234.2 million—was, at the time, the highest ever paid per square foot, according to Koh Keng Shing, managing director of Hong Kong’s Landscope Surveyors.
As reported by The Standard, the Lee family went on to develop three opulent villas on the site, covering a combined area of 2,486 square metres. By 2018, the project was completed, featuring a grand swimming pool and parking for 16 cars.
Though unconfirmed, several reports suggest that Jack Ma purchased a mansion in The Peak in 2015 for approximately USD 191 million.
Adding to the area’s legend, in 2018, property consultancy Knight Frank LLP revealed that a discreet buyer paid around USD 180 million for a villa spanning 9,217 square feet (roughly 856 square metres). At the time, it was the priciest residential transaction in Asia, with each square foot fetching up to USD 19,400.
Such eye-watering sums underscore The Peak’s ultra-premium status. According to Bruce Li of Asia Pacific Properties, while luxury homes in Hong Kong generally command around USD 4.9 million, prices at The Peak typically start at USD 40 million and can reach heights of USD 100 million.
Li also noted that The Peak primarily attracts wealthy expatriates working in global finance. Apartments here range between USD 5 million and USD 13 million.
With its dramatic vistas and opulent residences, The Peak has also found fame on screen. In 2023, it featured as a backdrop in Expats, an Amazon Prime Video original starring Nicole Kidman. The series, which explores the lives of affluent expatriates in Hong Kong, chose The Peak as its cinematic stage.
Producer Lulu Wang and production designer Yong Ok Lee explained their decision to film at The Peak was inspired by the striking contrast between its sleek luxury high-rises and the enveloping greenery. The pair behind Expats felt the setting offered a mood rich with emotion—perfect for a story laced with mystery.
What makes The Peak so alluring to the upper class?
The Peak, also known as Victoria Peak, is celebrated for its refreshing climate and sweeping views—qualities that have made it a longstanding symbol of luxury and privilege.
Historically, Hong Kong’s wealthy were drawn to The Peak in search of peace and comfort. With its winding roads and thick tropical foliage, the area offered an escape from the clamour of urban life.
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In time, The Peak became a sought-after retreat for the elite and well-known. Joshua Miller, president of the luxury property agency OKAY.com, noted that its promise of privacy continues to appeal to high-flying businesspeople, political figures and celebrities.
Above Luxurious detached villas nestled amidst lush greenery at The Peak. (Photo: Sotheby’s International Realty)
Luxurious detached villas nestled amidst lush greenery at The Peak. (Photo: Sotheby’s International Realty)
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Security here is another defining feature. Beyond robust fencing, security personnel are stationed around the clock at every residential entrance. Villas are set well back from the main roads, shielded behind large, gated drives.
Despite its secluded mountaintop location, The Peak remains remarkably self-contained, offering residents access to essential amenities including boutique shopping centres, private schools and manicured parks.
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Architectural variety is yet another hallmark. While some homes maintain a traditional colonial style, most embrace a more contemporary and forward-thinking design, echoing the refined tastes and global outlook of their owners. Noteworthy properties include Frank Gehry’s sculptural Opus and the Twelve Peaks development—twelve multi-storey villas, each with its own private pool.
Above Despite its elevated and tranquil setting, The Peak provides a full suite of high-end services for its residents. (Photo: Oliver Raw)
Despite its elevated and tranquil setting, The Peak provides a full suite of high-end services for its residents. (Photo: Oliver Raw)
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To join this rarefied community, residents are typically affiliated with a selection of elite private clubs. With annual fees in the thousands, these memberships grant access to a curated lifestyle—from childcare and concierge medical care to chauffeuring services and private tutors for the next generation.
It’s little wonder, then, that The Peak continues to embody the ideal of luxurious living. Here, residents enjoy a level of comfort and refinement that reflects the considerable investment it demands.
