Hi, I’m Andy
Traveler and photographer.
I don’t travel just to see places. I travel because I want to know if there’s more than just everyday life. More about me
Exploring Hongkong by Public Transport
Hongkong has one of the best and most efficient public transport systems in the world, making it the perfect way to explore the city’s attractions. You can even travel from the airport to the city centre quickly, reliably and affordably by metro. In fact, you can almost completely avoid expensive taxis or ride-sharing apps while visiting Hongkong.
I personally wouldn’t normally call myself a big fan of public transport, but Hongkong’s incredibly easy-to-use and affordable system genuinely impressed even me. Especially in the Central district, you can reach almost every corner of the city by metro.
One experience you definitely shouldn’t miss is riding a Ding Ding, the nickname for Hongkong’s iconic trams. Not only are they the cheapest way to get around, they’re also the slowest, which actually makes them perfect for enjoying the surrounding skyscraper scenery and slowing things down a little in an otherwise hectic city. For me personally, taking a Ding Ding tram ride is already one of Hongkong’s attractions in itself.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the different public transport options and what they are best used for:
MTR (Mass Transit Railway)
The MTR is the backbone of Hongkong’s public transport system. With eleven different lines, it connects most important areas of the city, including shopping districts, tourist attractions and business centres. The trains are fast, clean and highly reliable.
Stations and trains are clearly signposted in both English and Chinese, making navigation very straightforward, even for first-time visitors. Each of the eleven metro lines is colour-coded, which makes it very easy to identify the correct route. Inside every station, you’ll find clear maps displaying all lines and stops.
Google Maps also works extremely well for navigating Hongkong’s public transport network. Simply enter your destination, switch to public transport mode and Google Maps will show you the correct metro lines, colours and transfer stations if needed. A screenshot example can be found below.
Buses and Trams
Buses and the famous double-decker trams, known locally as Ding Dings, offer a relaxed and enjoyable way to explore the city. Bus routes also connect more remote areas and often provide scenic views, especially on the islands and along the coastline.
For example, you can take the bus to destinations such as Victoria Peak, Shek O, Stanley or Repulse Bay.
The historic trams are extremely affordable and mainly operate through the busy northern part of Hongkong Island. From Kennedy Town all the way to Causeway Bay, the tram network covers large parts of the island and is perfect for experiencing the city from a different perspective.
Ferries
The famous Star Ferry is a historic and inexpensive way to cross Victoria Harbour while enjoying breathtaking views of Hongkong’s skyline. Instead of booking an expensive harbour cruise, the Star Ferry offers a much cheaper alternative with equally fantastic views.
You can also reach the Outlying Islands, such as Lantau Island and Lamma Island, by ferry. On several of these islands, you’ll experience the complete opposite of Hongkong’s hectic city centre. Here, you can enjoy scenic hikes, relaxed fishing villages and even beautiful beaches.
Octopus-Karte – Ein Muss für den öffentlichen Verkehr
Die Octopus-Karte ist ein Muss für Touristen. Sie kann für alle öffentlichen Verkehrsmittel verwendet werden und auch in vielen Geschäften und Restaurants. Die Karte ist einfach aufzuladen und spart dir das ständige Kleingeld suchen und ein Ticket am Schalter oder Automaten zu kaufen. Auf den nachfolgenden Abschnitten erläutere ich dir alles Wissenswerte zur Octopus Karte.
Octopus Card – A Must-Have for Public Transport
If you’re travelling to Hongkong, the Octopus Card is an essential tool that will make your trip significantly easier. This versatile smart card can be used for public transport, shopping and many other everyday purchases throughout the city.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the Octopus Card, including how to get one, how to top it up, how to use it and a few insider tips to help you get the most out of your Hongkong trip.
What Is the Octopus Card?
The Octopus Card is a rechargeable smart card that was originally developed for Hongkong’s public transport system. Today, however, it has become much more than just a transport card.
You can use it in supermarkets, restaurants, vending machines and even in some taxis. The card works with contactless technology, meaning you simply tap it against a reader whenever you want to pay.
Where Can You Get an Octopus Card?
- You can easily purchase an Octopus Card at many locations throughout Hongkong, including:
- Hongkong Airport: Right after arrival at the customer service counters in the arrivals hall.
- MTR Stations: At the customer service desks inside every MTR station (Mass Transit Railway).
- Convenience Stores: Many 7-Eleven and Circle K stores also sell and top up Octopus Cards.
Costs and Types of Octopus Cards
There are several types of Octopus Cards available:
The standard adult version costs HK$150. This includes:
- HK$100 usable credit
- HK$50 refundable deposit
Child Octopus Card
Available for children between 3 and 11 years old. The card also costs HK$150 and includes:
- HK$100 usable credit
- HK$50 refundable deposit
Children benefit from reduced fares on public transport.
Tourist Octopus Card
Some tourist versions are specially designed for visitors and may include transport packages or airport transfer options.
Personalised Octopus Card
These cards can include your name and photo. However, for most tourists they usually don’t offer any major advantages compared to the standard version.
Topping Up Your Octopus Card
- You can easily add credit to your Octopus Card at many locations throughout Hongkong:
- MTR Stations: At self-service top-up machines or customer service counters.
- Convenience Stores: Shops such as 7-Eleven and Circle K offer top-up services.
- Supermarkets and Pharmacies: Many supermarkets and drugstores also allow you to recharge your card.
- Online: Via the official Octopus App, although this usually requires a registered account.
Using the Octopus Card
MTR (Metro System)
The Octopus Card is extremely easy to use. When entering and leaving MTR stations, simply tap your card on the card reader at the ticket gates.
The system automatically calculates the distance travelled and deducts the correct fare directly from your balance. You don’t need to worry about buying tickets or calculating prices yourself, everything happens automatically.
Buses and Ferries
The same principle applies to ferries. At the ferry terminals, you’ll find card readers where you tap your Octopus Card before boarding and again when leaving the pier at your destination.
On buses, the card reader is located directly inside the vehicle near the front entrance. You enter through the front door and tap your card so the driver can verify the payment.
Trams (Ding Ding)
The historic Hongkong trams work slightly differently compared to buses. You board the tram through the rear entrance and leave through the front door.
Unlike on the metro, there’s no need to tap your card again when exiting. Simply pay once as you leave the tram.
Shopping with the Octopus Card:
Tips and Tricks
Check Your Balance
At every MTR station, you’ll find machines where you can check your remaining balance. In addition, most payment terminals also display your current balance whenever you use the card.
Automatic Top-Up
If you’re staying in Hongkong for a longer period, you can activate an automatic top-up service. This feature automatically reloads your card whenever the balance becomes too low.
Lost Card
If your Octopus Card is registered and gets lost, it can be blocked. Any remaining balance can then be transferred to a replacement card.
Where to stay in Hongkong
Where I stayed – Dorsett Mongkok (Kowloon)
Located in the heart of Kowloon, the Dorsett Hotel offers a convenient base for exploring Hongkong. You’ll find various shopping and dining options in the surrounding area.
The rooms are simple but functional, and the nearest MTR station (Olympic Station) is about a 10-minute walk away. Popular attractions such as the Ladies Market, Temple Street, Tsim Sha Tsui, and the Avenue of Stars can be reached by metro in around 15 to 20 minutes.
The Dorsett Mongkok is not as centrally located as some other hotels, but for Hongkong standards, it falls into the more affordable range. If you’re not in a rush and want to keep your budget under control, this could be a good option for your stay.
Where I stayed – Gloucester Luk Kwong Hotel (Hongkong Island)
On another visit, I stayed at the Gloucester Luk Kwong Hotel on Hongkong Island. The location is very central, with easy access to the MTR, making it a great base for exploring the city.
For Hongkong standards, the rooms are surprisingly spacious and offer good value for money. You’ll also find plenty of restaurants, shops, and nightlife options in the surrounding area.
If you’re looking for a centrally located hotel with relatively large rooms at a reasonable price, the Gloucester Luk Kwong is definitely worth considering.
The Salisbury – centrally located (Kowloon)
The Salisbury stands out with its excellent location in Kowloon, right by the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. You can reach the Avenue of Stars within just a 5-minute walk. Most rooms offer spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s iconic skyline.
Many of Kowloon’s main attractions are right on your doorstep. Other sights, such as the markets in Mong Kok, can be reached by MTR in around 20 to 30 minutes. The nearest metro station is just around the corner and only a short walk away.
The hotel not only offers functional rooms but also features an indoor pool.
Compared to the Dorsett Hotel mentioned earlier, The Salisbury is priced slightly higher, but it also offers a much more central location. In my opinion, it provides great value for money and strikes a good balance between a prime location and an affordable stay. It’s definitely one of my top choices for my next trip to Hongkong.
Regent Hong Kong (Kowloon)
The Regent Hong Kong also impresses with its perfect location right on the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. Most of Kowloon’s main attractions are within walking distance and can be reached in just a few minutes. There’s also an MTR station nearby.
At the Regent, you can expect true five-star comfort, along with stunning views of Victoria Harbour and Hongkong’s impressive skyline. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and, for Hongkong standards, spacious rooms with excellent amenities.
However, a stay at the Regent is not for budget travellers. All Hotels in Kowloon here.
Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel (Hongkong Island – Central)
Hongkong Island is home not only to many of the city’s top attractions, but also to its iconic skyline and dense forest of skyscrapers. This is where you’ll find international corporations – and those who can afford to live here are certainly at the top end of Hongkong’s price range. As a result, the Central district is one of the most expensive areas in the city, and accommodation here reflects that.
A centrally located option that still offers good value for money is the Butterfly on LKF Boutique Hotel. The hotel is within walking distance of major sights such as Lan Kwai Fong, the Mid-Levels Escalator, and Hong Kong Park.
The Peak Tram, which takes you up to Victoria Peak with its incredible skyline views, is also just a short distance away.
Hotel Madera Hollywood (Hongkong Island – Central)
Hotel Madera Hollywood is located in the vibrant Central district on Hongkong Island and is perfect if you want to be right in the middle of the action. Thanks to its central location, you can quickly reach many of the city’s main attractions, as well as trendy restaurants and bars.
The spacious suites offer a charming mix of modern comfort and retro design. The hotel also features a fitness centre, so you can stay active during your trip.
Wharney Hotel (Stadtteil Hongkong Island – Wan Chai)
Das Wharney Hotel befindet sich im lebendigen Wan Chai-Viertel, einem idealen Ausgangspunkt, um Hongkong zu erkunden. Von hier aus erreichst du schnell das Nachtleben, Restaurants und Einkaufsmöglichkeiten. Die Zimmer sind komfortabel und bieten alles, was du für einen angenehmen Aufenthalt brauchst. Besonders erwähnenswert ist der Aussenpool, der an heissen Tagen für eine willkommene Abkühlung sorgt, sowie die Sauna, die nach einem langen Tag Entspannung bietet.
Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong (Hongkong Island – Causeway Bay)
Holiday Inn Express in Causeway Bay offers a central location at a fair price. Situated right next to Times Square, it’s perfect for convenient shopping.
The rooms are simple and comfortable, and the included breakfast makes for an easy start to the day. The location is especially practical if you want quick access to the city centre or explore the lively surroundings.
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