How to get around in Hong Kong?

Published on : 05 May 20204 min reading time

When travelling to Hong Kong, it is not always necessary to rent a vehicle. Indeed, the public transport network is widely developed which will allow you to travel without too much expense. To make it easier for you, discover the different means of transport available to you.

Taxis for a pleasant trip

Taxis in Hong Kong are plentiful and generally easy to find. You can easily book by phone or via an application, but it is also possible to stop them on the street, except for certain inappropriate areas. Most of the time, fares are affordable for a comfortable ride (clean and air-conditioned cars). They are in fact metered and must be clearly stated on board.
For your transportation in Hong Kong by taxi, all trips to the airport and Disneyland Resort are possible, but you should be aware that the traffic zones are determined by the color of the taxi. There are 3 categories:

. Red taxis can circulate throughout Hong Kong except Tung Chung Road and South Lantau Island.
. Green taxis can only operate in the new territories.
. Blue taxis are only reserved for travel on Lantau Island.

If you’re in a wheelchair or carry a lot of luggage, it’s best to choose specially equipped vehicles such as the Diamond Cab or SynCab. The former are designed to carry two passengers in wheelchairs accompanied by two other people. Smaller SynCabs can carry one wheelchair passenger who travels with two companions.

Trains and trams for greater speed

If you’re looking for more affordable transportation in Hong Kong, consider a trip by metro. This is a fast but convenient form of public transport that is managed by the MTR network. In order to meet all needs, 10 lines have been developed to serve Hong Kong’s main districts. They allow you to transit easily to the border.
The network also provides you with a train line connecting Tuen Mun to Yuen Long while ensuring the connection in the new territories and the connection to mainland China. Finally, the Airport Express train can take you directly from the city to the international airport.
Many travellers and Hong Kongers particularly appreciate the double-decker tram. In addition to its low fare, it also proves to be a very fun form of public transport. However, the tram only serves only the most dynamic districts.

Buses to get around the country

Taking the bus as transportation in Hong Kong may be more convenient if you need to go to a specific area, either nearby or far away. The bus network is indeed quite poor as most lines cover all of Hong Kong. To travel to Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and Kowloon, there are 3 bus companies providing the connection. Lantau Island is served by New Lantao and Long Win Bus. The latter also offers lines linking the north of the island to the airport. Often, the fare of a journey is calculated according to the distance to be covered.
Another solution to travel throughout the territory is the minibus. Depending on your convenience, you can choose between a green or red vehicle. Green minibuses are easier to get around since they follow fixed routes and have unchanging fares. Red minibuses travel on circuits that can be modified. You can also take them or get off at a place other than a common bus stop. However, you will need to know your itinerary, but above all you will need to have a good understanding of the Cantonese language and the territory.

Other practical solutions to know

If you are looking for transport in Hong Kong that connects to the surrounding islands, you can opt for the ferry. It is a quick and easy way to get around. Ferries depart from Hong Kong Island to the surrounding islands such as Pench Chau, Lamma or Discovery Bay.

If you are new to Hong Kong, there is an easier and more convenient way to pay for your transportation costs, such as the “Octopus Card”. Very popular among Hong Kongers, this prepaid magnetic card allows you to deduct the fare from automatic terminals. You will be able to get one at any time and all public transport (bus, train, tram) accepts this method of payment.

To avoid getting lost, the ideal is to learn some basic language skills before your stay. You will also be able to memorize a few stops and places close to your place of residence. This will save you from many unpleasant surprises as the task can quickly become complicated if you get lost.

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