How much do you know about Hong Kong transportation? Do you think traveling freely in Hong Kong is difficult? In fact, Hong Kong’s transportation system is very convenient, with many point-to-point routes where you can reach your destination within a 10-minute walk after getting off. The following will introduce the types of transportation available in Hong Kong, their features, recommended transportation apps, and costs. We will also cover popular transportation options such as the Airport Express, Hong Kong Tram, and the Octopus Card. Additionally, we’ll provide helpful tips to make it easier for you to travel around Hong Kong and enjoy your time.
Types of Transportation in Hong Kong
Hong Kong offers a variety of transportation options. The following are the 8 main types of transportation, which will be introduced in detail below:
- Bus
- Minibus
- Taxi
- MTR (Mass Transit Railway)
- Tram (Ding Ding)
- Ferry
- Light Rail
- High-Speed Rail
Hong Kong Transportation Card
Octopus Card
In Taiwan, people use the EasyCard as a transportation card, which can be used for public transport and shopping. Similarly, in Hong Kong, the transportation card is the Octopus Card. It is mainly used for public transport, and some shops or markets also accept it for payments.
Purchasing an Octopus Card does not require real-name registration. The physical card can also be added to Apple Pay for usage. To top up the Octopus Card, you can visit any MTR station’s value-added machine, MTR customer service centers, convenience stores, McDonald’s, Starbucks, Wellcome, ParknShop, and more. To top up, simply insert the card into the machine, insert the cash, and select either “Card Only” or “Print Receipt” to retrieve the card. For other top-up locations, just tell the staff how much you want to add.
In recent years, Octopus has also launched a mobile app: Octopus. If you are worried about losing your card or prefer using electronic payments, you can consider this option. If you can’t find any of the top-up locations mentioned or don’t have cash on hand, you can use the app to top up your card. Just be aware of the exchange rate on that day.
The mobile version of Octopus allows you to check the balance and transaction history. If you forget the balance on your physical card, there are two methods:
- Insert the card into the top-up machine to view the balance, then select “Return Card.”
- Use the check-in machine at any MTR station, which shows the balance and also the last 10 transactions.
Helpful Tips
▶︎ The value-added machines only accept HKD 50 or 100 bills.
▶︎ Adult or child Octopus cards must be topped up in multiples of HKD 50.
▶︎ 7-Eleven and OK convenience stores can print transaction records. For details, refer to the official Octopus website.
At the end of your trip, you can refund the remaining balance on the Octopus Card. Travelers with a physical card can go to MTR customer service centers to get a cash refund. For the mobile version of Octopus, you can select a refund in the app, and the amount will be credited to your account within a few working days.
Electronic Payments
In recent years, more and more people are using electronic payments, whether it’s Line Pay, JKoPay, or Apple Pay. With just a card or smartphone, you can make payments with a simple “beep.” In addition to the Octopus Card mentioned above, cash and electronic payments can also be used for transportation fares in Hong Kong.
The following electronic payment methods can be used on the MTR:
- QR Code (except for the Airport Express): AlipayHK EasyGo, Tencent Ride Code, MTR Mobile Ticket, etc.
- Visa contactless credit or debit cards (only at light blue gates)
Most buses in Hong Kong have also added electronic payment sensors, allowing you to use:
- Contactless payment: Mastercard, UnionPay, VISA, JCB credit cards, American Express, etc.
- Mobile payments: Apple Pay, Google Pay (Android), Samsung Pay
- QR Code payments: AlipayHK EasyGo, Alipay Ride Code, UnionPay QuickPass App “Ride Code,” etc.
Helpful Tip
When using electronic payments, be sure to check the exchange rate for the day.
Hong Kong Transportation: Airport Express / Airport Bus
Hong Kong International Airport, also known as Chek Lap Kok Airport, is located on an artificial island in the Outlying Islands area, near Lantau Island. There are usually three ways to travel to and from Hong Kong Airport: airport bus, Airport Express, and taxi. Locals choose based on their residence and needs, while travelers are advised to take a taxi or the Airport Express for convenience, as these options help avoid getting lost after disembarking.
Hong Kong Airport Express
The Airport Express is the fastest way to travel from the airport to the city. It offers services such as pre-check-in, free shuttle services, and hotel shuttle services. It passes through the Expo Station, Tsing Yi Station, Hong Kong Station, Kowloon Station, and Central Station.
The travel time from the airport to Kowloon Station is about 20 minutes, and to Central Station, it’s about 24 minutes—very quick. The fare for the Airport Express is higher compared to other MTR lines, and you can purchase tickets or use your Octopus Card for direct entry.
MTR offers two types of tickets: one-way tickets and round-trip tickets. Tickets can be purchased at the customer service center at the Airport Express station, through automated ticket machines, or online via the MTR website. You can also scan a QR Code to board, or even pre-book discounted tickets via KKday!
Hong Kong Airport Bus
The airport bus mainly operates between Hong Kong Airport and tourist areas or the city, and it is divided into two routes. One route directly connects to the city, and routes starting with “A” refer to “Airport.” The other route, starting with “E,” connects to the external routes of North Lantau, and it often makes a detour through the logistics area before traveling along the North Lantau Expressway to the city.
Airport buses operate from early morning until midnight, with the earliest departures around 5 AM. For late-night arrivals, travelers can take the NA-starting airport bus, which operates until about 2 AM.
Most airport buses are orange and white, with three large luggage racks inside for passengers to store their bags. The upper deck is equipped with a monitor for passengers to keep an eye on their luggage. Most buses also offer USB charging ports, allowing passengers to charge their phones during the long ride.
Payment Methods: No special ticket purchase is required. You can pay with cash (no change provided), Octopus Card, or electronic payment. Fares range from HKD 20 to 40, depending on the destination, and are cheaper than the Airport Express.
Hong Kong Transportation: Hong Kong City
Hong Kong MTR (Mass Transit Railway)
The Hong Kong MTR is similar to Taiwan’s MRT, running across Kowloon, New Territories, and the Outlying Islands. It has a total of 10 lines, each represented by a different color.
Each station has multiple exits with clear signage, making it very convenient. Some stations are directly connected to shopping malls. For example, the D exit of Mong Kok Station leads directly to Langham Place, where you can simply take an escalator to enter the mall.
In the MTR map, stations that are connected by a dashed line indicate that passengers can transfer between them. For example, from Tsim Sha Tsui Station, you can take the MTR to East Tsim Sha Tsui Station, and vice versa. The Ma Chao Station on the light blue line is only open on race days.
Hong Kong MTR Fares: By entering your starting and ending stations on the MTR website, the fare and travel time will be displayed.
The MTR also sells a Day Pass, which allows unlimited travel on MTR, Light Rail, and MTR buses for any day (except for the Airport Express, East Rail Line head station, and travel to and from Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau stations). This is ideal for travelers who plan to use the MTR throughout the day.
Helpful Tip
Cash is not accepted on the MTR. You need to purchase a single-journey ticket, use an Octopus Card, or opt for electronic payment.
Single-Journey Ticket Purchase: At the MTR station’s single-journey ticket machine, simply tap the destination station on the route map, select the quantity and ticket type, and insert coins or bills (change will be provided) to obtain your single-journey ticket.
The MTR also has its own app: MTR Mobile. It can be used to check fares, find route suggestions, purchase tickets, view station stores, and more. If you don’t want to search the MTR website or save the MTR route map on your phone, consider downloading the app.
Hong Kong Buses
In addition to the MTR, buses are also a popular mode of transportation for most people in Hong Kong, with frequent schedules. Hong Kong’s bus services, which were previously operated by five companies (with New World First Bus merged into Citybus), are now operated by four companies:
- Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB): Operating in Kowloon and the New Territories, KMB is the largest bus company in Hong Kong.
- Lantau Bus (Long Win): Serving Tung Chung, Disneyland, and the airport, with routes to the New Territories (except Tseung Kwan O).
- Citybus: Mainly operating on Hong Kong Island, including areas like Tuen Mun 54 District and the Kai Tak New Development Area. It is the bus company with the most extensive service coverage in Hong Kong.
- New Lantao Bus (NLB): Operating on Lantau Island, and also managing routes to Shenzhen Bay Port.
Hong Kong buses run from early morning until midnight, with most services starting around 5:30 AM and the last buses leaving around 11 PM. There are also overnight buses, typically with routes starting with “N”, so don’t worry if you’re out late and need to get home.
Most buses in Hong Kong are double-decker, and some have small TVs displaying programs. Announcements for each stop are made in three languages (Cantonese, English, and Mandarin), and the station names are displayed in both Chinese and English.
The fare varies for each route. Passengers must tap their Octopus Card or pay with cash (no change given) when boarding. There’s no need to tap when alighting, and passengers must board through the front door and exit through the back. This is different from Taipei buses, where you can board and exit from both the front and rear.
Here are two recommended bus apps for Hong Kong:
- KWB.LWB: This is the official app for Kowloon Motor Bus and Long Win Bus (sister companies). The homepage shows nearby bus stops, estimated arrival times, and fares. You can search for bus routes by entering the bus number and save your favorite bus stops. The app does have ads, but other than that, it’s quite convenient to use.
- HKBUS—Hong Kong Buses: This app is ad-free and allows you to search for bus stops within 100/200/400 meters. You can plan your route by selecting your starting and ending points, and the system will suggest bus routes. Other features are similar to those of the “KWB.LWB” app. Some bus stations in Hong Kong now use English codes, such as A3, so you don’t have to worry about getting confused with directions and bus stop signs.
Helpful Tip
Taking a bus in Hong Kong is similar to taking a bus in Taiwan—you’ll need to signal the driver to stop and board.
Hong Kong Minibus
Hong Kong minibuses are similar in size to Taiwan’s mini buses and come in two colors: red and green. The color of the roof indicates which type of minibus it is.
- Red Minibuses: These mainly operate in older districts such as Mong Kok, Central, and Tsuen Wan. They are not allowed to operate in restricted areas. Generally, passengers pay cash when getting off, although a few red minibuses accept the Octopus Card.
- Green Minibuses: Passengers must pay when boarding (either using Octopus or cash). Some routes have segment-based fares. Before tapping your Octopus Card, you should inform the driver of your destination. The driver will adjust the fare accordingly or you may press the button on the card reader yourself.
Minibuses are usually faster than buses because they don’t stop at every station. When you want to get off, you need to signal the driver either by calling out or pressing the “get off” bell (though some minibuses don’t have the bell). If the driver waves, it means they’ve heard you, otherwise, the minibus will continue. There are no announcements or digital displays inside the minibus, so most passengers are familiar with the route. Otherwise, you may need to use Google Maps to track the stops, as some places are only serviced by minibuses.
Minibuses have a seating capacity of 16 to 19 seats, and there is a speedometer inside that shows the current speed. If the driver exceeds 80 km/h, the speedometer beeps.
Hong Kong Tram (Ding Ding)
The Hong Kong tram is a unique form of transportation with over 100 years of history. It runs along the streets of Hong Kong Island, passing through lively areas like Wan Chai, Central, and Causeway Bay. Its design resembles a double-decker bus, but it appears lighter with fewer seats, making it more compact inside.
The tram line is a long one, divided into an Eastbound and a Westbound route, which differ only in direction. The “Eastbound” route runs from Sheung Wan to Causeway Bay, while the “Westbound” route goes from Causeway Bay back to Sheung Wan. There are 6 main tram routes:
- Sheung Wan (Western Market) ⇄ Shau Kei Wan
- Happy Valley ⇄ Shau Kei Wan
- Shek Tong Tsui ⇄ North Point
- Shek Tong Tsui ⇄ Causeway Bay
- Kennedy Town ⇄ Happy Valley
- Kennedy Town ⇄ Shau Kei Wan
The fare for the tram is very cheap and the same regardless of the route. Adults pay HKD 3 upon alighting. There are four payment methods: Octopus Card, cash (no change given), monthly pass, and electronic payments.
Helpful Tip
Remember: You board the tram through the back door and exit through the front door.
Hong Kong Taxis
There are three types of taxis in Hong Kong, each indicated by a different color, representing different areas of operation:
- Urban Taxis (Red): These operate in most areas of Hong Kong (except for Tung Chung Road and roads in southern Lantau Island).
- New Territories Taxis (Green): These primarily operate in the northeastern New Territories (north of Sha Tin) and northwestern New Territories (north of Tsuen Wan).
- Lantau Island Taxis (Blue): These operate only on Lantau Island and at Chek Lap Kok.
All taxis are permitted to operate at Hong Kong International Airport’s passenger terminal.
Taxi Fare Calculation
Taxis in Hong Kong start with a base fare, and after the first 2 kilometers, the fare meter increases every 200 meters or for every minute of waiting time.
If you’re taking a taxi from the airport, there is a large sign directing passengers to the appropriate colored taxis. Airport staff will help estimate the fare to your destination. You can also check the fares on the Hong Kong International Airport’s official website.
Helpful Tip
Hong Kong taxis charge an additional fee for luggage. For more details, you can refer to the Transport Department’s official website.
Hong Kong Ferries
Hong Kong is home to several small islands, each with scenic views and unique geographical features. The ferries in Hong Kong offer routes to these islands, divided into Inner Harbour routes and Outer Harbour routes.
- Inner Harbour Routes: These operate within Victoria Harbour, with main routes such as:
- Star Ferry: Central/Wan Chai ⇄ Tsim Sha Tsui
- New Ferry: North Point ⇄ Hung Hom / Kowloon City
- Fuk Yu Ferry: North Point ⇄ Kwun Tong ⇄ Kai Tak, Hung Hom ⇄ Central, Water Taxis
- These are the routes most tourists will use.
- Outer Harbour Routes: These operate from the outlying islands to other islands. Main routes include:
- New Ferry: Central ⇄ Cheung Chau / Mui Wo
- Kowloon Ferry: Central ⇄ Ping Chau / Yung Shue Wan / Sok Kwu Wan
- Discovery Bay Shipping: Central ⇄ Discovery Bay
- Perry Bay Transport: Central / Tsuen Wan ⇄ Perry Bay
- Fuk Yu Ferry: Tuen Mun ⇄ Tung Chung ⇄ Sha Lo Wan ⇄ Tai O
- These are the main ferry routes to outer islands.
Recommended Route
For those traveling between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central, the Star Ferry is a highly recommended choice. The ride lasts about 9 minutes, offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour. In just a short time, you can admire the skyline, with sunlight glistening off the buildings.
The seats on the Star Ferry are made of varnished wood, and the backs of the seats can be adjusted for comfort, ensuring passengers face the direction of travel and reducing seasickness (though this still depends on the sea conditions of the day).
Payment Methods for Star Ferry
You can pay using an Octopus Card, electronic payments (AlipayHK “Easy Ride Code”, Alipay “Ride Code”, or UnionPay QuickPass “Ride Code”), or purchase a token at the service counter. Once you enter the gate, if the ferry hasn’t departed yet, you can wait inside (seats are available). The Star Ferry operates with a frequency of about 6 to 10 minutes per departure. When it’s time to board, the green gate will open, and you can follow the path to the ferry.
Helpful Tip
The Star Ferry has two levels, with different gates for each. The lower level is slightly cheaper than the upper level, so be mindful if you have a preference.
For ferries to outlying islands, schedules are fixed, with slight variations on weekends and weekdays. Some routes also offer fast ferries (at the same fare), so you can plan according to your time.
Hong Kong Light Rail
The Hong Kong Light Rail is the only open-fare transportation system in Hong Kong. There are no fare gates on the platforms, and no ticket inspectors are present (though occasional checks may occur). The Light Rail mainly operates in the western New Territories, including the Yuen Long, Tin Shui Wai, and Tuen Mun areas. It uses a zonal fare system, and passengers can use Octopus cards or purchase single-ride tickets. Transfers to the Tuen Ma Line or MTR buses offer discounts (only applicable with Octopus cards).
How to Use the Octopus Card
Before boarding, swipe your Octopus card at the orange entry fare reader on the platform. The system will deduct the highest fare possible for your trip. Upon alighting, swipe your card again at the green exit fare reader, and the system will automatically refund any excess fare back to your card.
Helpful Tip
▶︎ The journey should not exceed two hours.
▶︎ Always remember to swipe your card when exiting, or you will be charged the maximum fare.
Single-Ride Ticket Usage
Single-ride tickets can be purchased at the “two-in-one” ticket machine on the platform. You can use an Octopus card or cash to buy a ticket, with change available. The ticket is valid for up to two hours.
Helpful Tip
Single-ride tickets can only be purchased for one-way trips between stations on the same route.
Hong Kong to Macau Transportation
Hong Kong and Macau are very close to each other, making a 4-day, 3-night trip to both places a great option. There are various transportation methods for traveling between Hong Kong and Macau. Below are three main ways to make the journey:
Ferry
Before the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, the main way for Hong Kong residents to travel to Macau was by ferry. Two well-known ferry companies, TurboJet and Cotai Water Jet, operate the routes. The ferry ride takes about one hour, and tickets can be purchased in advance or on-site.
- TurboJet:
Hong Kong Sheung Wan ⇄ Macau Taipa
Hong Kong International Airport ⇄ Macau Taipa (currently suspended) - Cotai Water Jet:
Hong Kong Sheung Wan ↔ Macau (Outer Harbour / Taipa)
Hong Kong International Airport ↔ Macau Taipa
Macau GMB (Golden Bus)
After the opening of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, the Macau GMB bus has become the preferred option for Hong Kong residents traveling to Macau. Many airport buses have Hong Kong Port of the bridge as their terminus, and you can board the bus at the Hong Kong Port. The journey takes about 35 minutes, and buses run frequently.
Tickets can be purchased on-site with cash (HKD, RMB, MOP), Octopus cards, or electronic payments. Tickets can also be pre-purchased on the official website, costing HKD/MOP 65.
From the Macau Port of the bridge, buses are available to take you to the city center for MOP 6. For those wanting to save money, many hotels offer free shuttle buses that go to the city center or casinos.
Direct Bus
For those who are prone to seasickness or don’t want to travel the long way to the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, a direct bus might be a good option. Companies like “Hong Kong-Macau One,” “Hong Kong-Macau Express,” and “Wing Tung Bus” offer buses that go directly from Hong Kong’s city center (Prince Edward, Jordan, etc.) to Macau’s city center: casinos, The Parisian, and Cotai. You can purchase tickets from the official websites or ticket counters in Hong Kong or Macau.
Of the three main transportation options between Hong Kong and Macau, the Macau GMB or direct bus is recommended. The bus is more comfortable because you don’t need to worry about seasickness. Additionally, after the pandemic, ferry services have become less frequent, so it’s important to plan your schedule around ferry times. Lastly, if you are staying near Jordan or Prince Edward, the direct buses offer a more convenient point-to-point connection to Macau’s city center.
Hong Kong to Mainland China Transportation
There are several ways to travel from Hong Kong to Mainland China: the Hong Kong High-Speed Rail, cross-border buses, and trains. The Hong Kong High-Speed Rail opened in 2018, covering a total length of 26 kilometers with a maximum speed of 200 km/h. Departing from the Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, the high-speed rail offers short-distance routes to Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Dongguan, as well as longer routes to Foshan, Guilin, and Xiamen.
Cross-Border Buses
Cross-border buses can travel from Hong Kong’s city center to Mainland China. You can also choose to take a cross-border bus from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge Hong Kong Port to the Zhuhai Port.
Trains
For trains, you can head to the Hong Kong Lo Wu/ Lok Ma Chau Station, then transfer to the Shenzhen Metro.
This overview introduced all major Hong Kong transportation options, including features, fares, and key notes. Despite being compact, Hong Kong’s transportation system is very convenient. In summary, for a trip to Hong Kong, you’ll mainly rely on the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) and buses. Taking the Hong Kong Tram (Ding Ding) and the Star Ferry (Tsim Sha Tsui to Central) will also allow you to enjoy different scenic views of Hong Kong. I hope you have a pleasant trip, enjoy the delicious food, and experience the unique city atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hong Kong Transportation
- Which Hong Kong transportation options accept electronic payments?
The Hong Kong bus, MTR, and ferries all accept electronic payments. However, only buses and MTR accept Visa cards. - Is it recommended to drive in Hong Kong for a free-and-easy trip?
It is not recommended. Hong Kong has very convenient public transportation, and most places are easily accessible by MTR and buses. Additionally, parking fees in Hong Kong are very expensive, and parking spaces are hard to find. Lastly, driving in Hong Kong is not recommended for those unfamiliar with the left-side driving system, which is opposite to that of Taiwan. It’s best to rely on public transport for your trip. - What should be kept in mind when using Hong Kong transportation?
- Cash fares on buses do not offer change.
- It’s advisable to have your Octopus card, cash, or ticket ready when boarding and alighting.
- On buses, you only need to tap your Octopus card once when boarding.
- Buses require boarding from the front door and alighting from the rear (for Ding Ding trams, it’s the reverse).
