How to Get Around Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a destination where you must get out and explore the city. How? You can take the MTR or one of these forms of public transportation:

Star Ferry

The Star Ferry has existed since 1888 and it is a form of transportation that must be experienced by both everyday locals and tourists. Not only do you get the most amazing views of Victoria Harbour, but you also skip all traffic on the roads, the crowds at the MTR, and it is so cheap, $2.5 HKD ($0.32 USD)

You can take the ferry from the Central Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui and vice versa, as well as Wan Chai Ferry Pier to Tsim Sha Tsui and vice versa.

Hong Kong Star Ferry
The famous Star Ferry. Take the Upper Deck for best seats and best views during the short ride across the harbour. The ferry boat goes back and forth, and so the backrests of the seats also swing back and forth according to the direction of the journey

 

Taxi

Taxi is the most common form of transportation on the road. Depending on where you stay in Hong Kong, you will likely see the red taxis zooming by. There are 3 taxis colors in Hong Kong servicing the 3 regions – red for Hong Kong Island, green for New Territories, and blue for Lantau Island.

Not all taxis accept credit card or Octopus cards and typically expect cash. Be aware that language may be a barrier. The service and ride may also be rough with sharp turns. Speaking on these sharp turns, get ready to slide left and right.

 

Uber

For those wanting to ride on the roads, but not necessarily experience the Hong Kong taxi system, Uber is ideal for luxury travelers. Your car will arrive within minutes, you get to your destination in a cleaner vehicle, and you do not have to take out cash. Plus, if you choose an Uber Black you may even ride in a Tesla.

 

Double-Deck Tram

The double-deck tram system has been running through Hong Kong Island since 1904. The tram goes circulates between Shau Kei Wan and Kennedy Town. Like the Star Ferry, it is popular among both tourists and locals because of its cheap rate, $2.3 HKD ($0.30 USD)

The famous double-deck trams on Hong Kong island. Hop on for the same rate, using coins or your Octopus card. The best seats are on the upper deck to take in the best views. Photo credit Simon Clancy

 

Buses

Buses in Hong Kong are another typical sight on the roads. The double-decker buses, run by 5 bus companies, are even clean and comfortable. The bus routes extend throughout all of Hong Kong from Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. You can pay with coins or use your Octopus card.

 

Minibuses

Mini-buses are shuttle vehicles with no more than 16 seats. These buses go to local destinations that larger buses typically cannot reach. Green buses have fixed routes, whereas red buses are not on a specific route and can load and unload passengers at any point.

Hong Kong’s Minibuses. This form of transportation is most usually used by locals, as signs are in Chinese and drivers have extremely limited English. However, it is another excellent form of transformation in the city. Photo credit shanker s

 


 
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