Getting out and about by public transport in HK | ExpatWoman.com
 

Getting out and about by public transport in HK

Hong Kong has a highly developed transportation network with the public transport.

Posted on

10 February 2014

Last updated on 28 June 2017
Getting out and about by public transport in HK

Hong Kong is a small country with a land mass of just 1102 square kilometers with a large population of over seven million people. The public transport system is extensive in order to ensure that over 11 million journeys are made daily. With a network that includes railways, trams, buses, minibuses, taxis and ferries, getting around Hong Kong is fast and easy.

MTR Hong Kong

 

MTR

The Mass Transit Railway System (MTR) covers all the major districts including stops at the boundary with Mainland China. The MTR consists of ten rail lines, including Island, Tsuen Wan, Kwun Tong, Tseung Kwan O, Tung Chung, West Rail, East Rail, Ma On Shan, Disneyland Resort  and the Airport Express. The MTR also operates a light rail system that runs between Yuen Long and Tuen Mun in the New Territories, plus an inter-city train service to Mainland China.

The MTR tickets include tourist day passes for adults and children which will ensure that travelling is hassle free. The ticket is valid for a month from the date of issue. There are also airport passes available and are valid for 180days from the date of purchase. The airport express card also allows for travel on the MTR Bus as well as the Light Rail. These passes are only available to people who are not residents of Hong Kong.

Tourist Day Pass: HK$55
Child Tourist Day Pass: HK$25
Airport Express Travel Pass: HK$220 or HK$300.

Source: Discover Hong Kong


Airport Express

This is the fastest way to get from the airport to Hong Kong as a single trip is just 24 minutes long. Furthermore Airport Express passengers can enjoy a free shuttle service from the Hong Kong or Kowloon Stations to major hotels.

Trams

Exploring Hong Kong via one of the city’s historic trams is sure to make for some fun memories. The trams have been in operation since 1904 and truly form part of Hong Kong’s rich History. Neighborhoods you might pass through on your journey include some of Hong Kong's most colourful, such as Western district, Wan Chai, Happy Valley, Causeway Bay and North Point. Trams run daily from early morning until midnight. Trams are also one of the most affordable methods of transport with each journey, no matter how far, costing only HK$2.30. You can either pay for the tram in cash when disembarking or simply use your Octopus card.

The Peak Tram

The Peak Tram Hong Kong

Originally the peak tram began operations in 1888 and was for the exclusive use of the British Governor and the Peak’s residents. Today, however, the tram can be ridden by anyone and is truly a mind blowing experience. It is the steepest funicular railway in the world. The experience lasts only seven minutes, but the memories of Hong Kong’sgliding past at impossible angles will last a lifetime. The Peak Tram operates daily between 7am and midnight.


Taxis

There are three different kinds of taxis in Hong Kong and they all have different areas and starting fares. The prices of taxis vary according to colour, destination and time of day and we have all of the taxi information here >>

Ferries
An interesting way to see the city, and an easy way to get from island to island is definitely by ferry. A lot of Hong Kong's activity happens on the water including fishing, sales and many people live on the water too. Have a look at what the ferries in Hong Kong all about.

Bus
Hong Kong Busses are great for getting around the city and seeing some of the cool suburbs around Hong Kong and Kowloon. We have all the buss information for you right here >>

Octapus Cards
Octopus is accepted all over Hong Kong! Use it for transportation and parking, at retail outlets, self-service machines, leisure facilities and schools as well as through online. You can even use it for access control at a growing number of residential and commercial buildings. Simply place the Octopus card over a reader and the correct amount will be automatically deducted from the stored value. Visit the Octapus website for more information about getting an Octapus card.

You can find more information about all the public transport on the Hong Kong Government Website >>