Written by George Major
Getting around Hong Kong on public transport can be fast, cheap and convenient. But it can take a while to work out how to get the best out of the different transport options. With this in-depth guide, we’ll show you how to reach every corner of Hong Kong, on every mode of transport: from the crowded streets of Wan Chai, to the most remote villages of the New Territories.
Octopus Card
Introduced in 1997, the Octopus Card has long been an essential item in Hongkongers’ wallets. You can use it to pay for most forms of public transport, and it’s accepted as a form of payment in thousands of shops, convenience stores, for vending machines, and even for entry to some venues such as Happy Valley Racecourse.
Alternatives to The Octopus Card
In recent years, contactless debit and credit cards have gained wider acceptance in Hong Kong, making the Octopus slightly less essential than it used to be. However, new options such as the Octopus Card App and the ability to add your Octopus Card to Apple Pay or your Google Wallet have meant that the Octopus Card remains a must-have if you’re in Hong Kong.
Our complete guide to the Octopus Card includes everything you need to know about where and how to get one, how to use it, and how it can save you money. The official Octopus website also has information about the latest money-saving deals.
Essential transport apps
Hong Kong’s many different transport options have not always been easy for visitors to navigate. Luckily, a growing number of apps have been developed to help you out.
Our guide to Hong Kong transport apps includes route planning apps – for if your journey requires hopping between buses, trains and ferries – as well as apps specifically for navigating bus routes, the MTR, and for hailing taxis.
Plus, we’ve included useful translation apps and apps that provide local guides, to help you get through any situation.
Need phone data? See our comparison of the best Hong Kong eSIM options.
Hong Kong public transport wheelchair accessibility
Hong Kong’s public transport is generally very accessible, but there are a few things to bear in mind:
The good
- On the MTR almost all stations have step-free access. Those that don’t are equipped with stair lifts and platform ramps. Staff are on hand to assist wherever needed
- The Airport Express has dedicated wheelchair spaces and step-free access. You can request a ramp from platform staff to help with the platform gap if necessary
- Hong Kong’s double-decker buses mostly have low floors and wheelchair ramps with designated areas for wheelchairs
- Inter-island ferries and the Macau Ferry are wheelchair accessible. However, some ferry piers have steep ramps (how steep can depend on the tide) so asking for assistance may be necessary
- Hong Kong’s new taxi fleet has greatly improved wheelchair access
- The Peak Tram now has barrier-free access, although due to the nature of the vehicle, there are steep and uneven areas
- Concessionary fares apply to wheelchair users on the MTR, buses, ferries (including the Star Ferry) and Light Rail. You will get the cheapest fare by purchasing the relevant Octopus Card. Discounts will be applied automatically when you touch your card to the card reader
The less good
- Pavements in Hong Kong can be narrow and uneven with frequent obstructions. Some areas of Hong Kong Island have very steep streets: places that look like ordinary streets on the map are actually long staircases. However, there are many raised walkways that make getting around easier, and which have lifts to and from street-level
- Airport buses are not wheelchair accessible. Your best bet is to take the Airport Express
- Minibuses are not wheelchair accessible
- Trams on Hong Kong Island are very cramped with steep steps to get on and off
Getting around on the MTR
The Mass Transit Railway System, universally known as the MTR, is fast, relatively cheap compared to its international rivals, and very reliable. Even when typhoons rage across the city, the system barely flinches.
Our guide to the MTR includes everything you need to know.
The MTR Corporation also operates railways as far away as London, Stockholm and Melbourne. In Hong Kong, the MTR generates a lot of its revenue from developing the land above MTR stations. So, at major transport hubs, you’ll find large modern malls and high-rise residential developments, alongside interchange with bus and light rail networks.
Getting around on Hong Kong’s buses
Hong Kong’s bus network has four main operators:
- Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB): KMB is the largest operator, dominating routes across Kowloon and the New Territories. With a fleet of over 4000 buses (mostly double decker) and around 420 routes, they’re the backbone of daily commutes for millions and stand out in a nice flashy red and gold so they are easy to spot
- Citybus: Your go-to for Hong Kong Island routes and cross-harbour connections. These yellow and blue buses are common on some of the more popular tourist routes on the south side of the island, especially when traveling to Stanley or the Peak
- Long Win Bus: If you’re heading to the airport from the New Territories or exploring Tung Chung and Disneyland, Long Win’s orange-and-white buses are your ride
- New Lantau Bus (NLB): NLB serves the more remote corners of Lantau Island. Their green-and-white fleet tackles hilly terrain and scenic coastal roads to locations such as Tai O, Ngong Ping, and other off-the-beaten-path spots
You can read an in-depth guide to using all of the city’s bus services here.
Getting around Hong Kong by minibus
These little buses reach the deepest corners of the New Territories, and the busiest streets at the city’s heart. However, they can be a chaotic and bewildering experience for the uninitiated.
There are two types of minibus:
- Green minibuses follow set routes and fairly regular timetables, they can be flagged down at official bus stops
- Red minibuses are owner-operated, with the driver choosing a route to their destination, stopping off on request
Some newer buses have a stop request button. Otherwise, the phrase ba si jaam mm goi (bus-stop please) is very useful indeed when you’re approaching your desired destination.
If you’re going off the regular tourist track, or just want to travel like a true Hongkonger, minibuses are fantastic. They’re also one of the cheapest transport options in Hong Kong. Our guide to Hong Kong minibuses will tell you everything you need to know.
Hong Kong Taxis
Hong Kong’s taxis can be even more confusing than the minibuses. The first thing you need to know is that there are three main types of taxi:
- Red taxis serve urban areas. They can drop you off in most parts of Hong Kong and are the most expensive of Hong Kong’s taxis
- Green taxis operate in the New Territories, in the towns of Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Sha Tin, Tai Po and most of Sai Kung. They can be found at the airport, too. Good luck trying to persuade a green taxi driver to drop you off outside of these areas, as they won’t be allowed to pick up a return fare
- Blue taxis are the only taxis allowed to operate on Lantau island (with the exception of taxis heading to the airport). However, they are not allowed to leave Lantau island
Hong Kong airport taxis
If you’re arriving at the airport, there is a section for each type of taxi at the main taxi rank. Simply join the queue for the appropriate taxi depending on where in Hong Kong you’re heading.
Hong Kong taxi fares
Overall, Hong Kong’s taxis are reasonably priced compared to their international counterparts. Taxi drivers tend to prefer cash, but some do accept Octopus Card or contactless payment.
Taxi fares are displayed inside the taxi on the dashboard. The fare for the first two kilometres is:
- Red taxi: HK$29.00
- Green taxi: HK$25.50
- Light blue taxi: HK$24.00
After the first two kilometres, the fare is as follows:
- Red taxi: HK$2.10 per 200 metres
- Green and light blue taxi: HK$1.90 per 200 metres
There is also an additional HK$6.00 charge for every piece of baggage stored in the boot of the car. Routes that have to cross the Victoria Harbour through the Cross Harbour Tunnel incur a tunnel toll fee of HK$25.00. Tipping is not expected, but you can always tell the driver to keep the change.
Our full guide to Hong Kong’s taxis can be found here.
Taxi alternatives in Hong Kong
There are a fixed number of licenses for each type of Hong Kong taxi and no new licenses have been issued since 1994. This means that license plates change hands for millions of Hong Kong Dollars. The license owners then rent the car out to the drivers on a daily basis, meaning that the driver must earn back the expense of hiring the taxi before they can begin to make any money for themselves. This, alongside the convoluted three-colour system, can lead to an unsatisfying user-experience.
How are Hong Kong’s taxis changing?
Hong Kong’s taxi system is modernising. In 2025, the government allowed the launch of five new taxi operators, with modern Uber-style operating models, up-to-date vehicles, and more freedom to operate in all areas of the city.
You’ll find a comparison of all of these new operators in our full guide to Hong Kong taxis.
Hong Kong’s Ferries
Hong Kong is made up of hundreds of islands, from the densely-populated metropolis of Hong Kong Island, to the remote fishing community on Po Toi. There are popular tourist destinations on Cheung Chau Island, remote, rugged rock-climbing spots on Tung Lung Chau, and epic hikes starting out from Mui Wo on Lantau. Thousands of residents commute daily from Discovery Bay and Ma Wan.
In short, ferries are a vital part of Hong Kong’s public transport mix.
We’ve put together a guide to how to get around by ferry and where to catch them.
The Star Ferry
The most iconic of Hong Kong’s ferries is the Star Ferry. With a weekday full-price fare costing just HK$5.00, and a ferry departing every few minutes from early morning until late night, it’s a genuinely useful service used by thousands of Hongkongers every day.
It’s also one of the best ways to enjoy the city’s awesome skyline, day or night. You can find everything you need to know about the Star Ferry, all the routes, fares and tips, in our guide to the Star Ferry.
Getting around Hong Kong by Tram
The tram is affectionately referred to as the ding ding. This is a reference to the distinctive sound of the trams bell as well as a play on the Cantonese word for tram: ding che (電車).
The ding ding runs the whole length of Hong Kong Island from Kennedy Town in the west to Shau Kei Wan in the east. It’s not the fastest way to get around the island. It isn’t the most comfortable way either. But it has to be the most stylish and it provides some of the best views. A full fare is just HK$3.30, no matter how far you ride. So, if you’re not in a big rush, bag one of the upstairs seats, open the window for some natural air-con, and take in the sights, sounds and smells of Hong Kong.
Our guide to taking the tram has more details, including all the routes and fare information.
The Peak Tram
The other tram on Hong Kong Island (well, strictly speaking its a funicular railway) is the Peak Tram.
The Peak is one of the best places to see the city from above (without going on a lengthy hike). There are a few ways to reach The Peak including the bus and a walk up the Morning Trail.. However, if you’re on a short visit to Hong Kong, the Peak Tram is quick, easy and very fun.
Find out where to catch the Peak Tram, how much it costs and what to expect in our guide to the Peak Tram.
Using the Light Rail
The Light Rail runs through the Northwest New Territories between Yuen Long and Tuen Mun, serving several smaller towns along the way.
Hong Kong Light Rail fares
Single journeys on the Light Rail cost between HK$5.10 and HK$7.70 for adults when using an Octopus Card, or HK$5.50 and HK$8.00 when buying a ticket from a machine.
Fares are calculated automatically according to fare zones when you touch in and out with your Octopus Card. There are no ticket gates, so you must remember to use the card reader on the platform before you board and at the end of your journey to make sure you pay the right amount. There are often ticket inspectors present at stations to discourage fare-dodging.
Hong Kong Light Rail routes
The numbering system of the Light Rail routes is frankly far more confusing than is necessary. If you’re heading up to the Northwest New Territories, your best bet is to consult the route map on the official MTR website.
Airport Express
The Airport Express is usually the fastest way to get to and from the airport. Thanks to its speed, and the efficient layout of Hong Kong International Airoprt, I once made it from my seat on a Cathay Pacific flight arriving from Manila, to my sofa in my flat in Sheung Wan, in 40 minutes.
All the information you need about taking the Airport Express can be found here.
Airport Express in-town check-in
Another great feature of the Airport Express is the ability to check in your bags at Hong Kong MTR station on Hong Kong Island, or at Kowloon MTR station, then complete your journey free of baggage.
You can check in up to 24 hours before your flight, and until 90 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The service is only available if you’re flying with certain airlines, and there are a few other things to bear in mind before you use it. You’ll find everythig you need to know here.
Getting to and from the airport from your neighbourhood
While the Airport Express is great, if you’re travelling with one of more companion a taxi can work out cheaper, as well as offering the convenience of dropping you off right at your door. And from areas like Yuen Long or Sha Tin, the airport bus is often quicker (and cheaper) than the Airport Express.
We have a collection of articles that can help you decide what’s best:
- How to get to the airport from Causeway Bay
- Travelling between the airport and Central
- How to get to the airport from Jordan
- Getting to the airport from Shan Shui Po
- Wherever you are, use the HK eMobility site to find the fastest bus to the airport
Getting around Hong Kong on foot
A study in 2017, based on smartphone data, showed that Hongkongers average more steps per day than people from anywhere else in the world (6880 steps, in case you’re wondering).
Walking safety in Hong Kong
Walking in Hong Kong is very safe, even late at night. But look-out! Jaywalking is a thing in Hong Kong, and you can get a fine if a police officer spots you crossing the road in the wrong place. Plus the pavements can get really overcrowded, and it’s usually either really hot or raining.
Tips for getting around Hong Kong on foot
Hong Kong can be very walkable. The first thing to remember is always carry an umbrella. Obviously, you’ll need it when it rains, but it’s also useful when it’s hot: condensation dripping from the city’s millions of leaky air-conditioning units is a constant threat. And at other times, a UV-protective umbrella is the best way to keep the heat of the sun at bay.
When the weather turns really spicy, no umbrella or raincoat is going to keep you dry and it’s socially-acceptable to go out in your swim-shorts and flip flops. Just take a towel and spare set of clothes in a dry-bag and you’re all set.
Using Hong Kong’s overhead walkways
Another top-tip for walking in the city is to use the overhead walkways. These allow you to stride above the traffic, via air-conditioned malls, far and wide. Using elevated walkways, you can get from the Western Market in Sheung Wan, through the Hong-Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal, alnog the walkway to IFC, on to Central, through Admiralty and into Pacific Place, while barely touching the ground.
Hiking in Hong Kong
Because Hong Kong is so densely packed, you’re never more than a few kilomtres from the edge of the city. So if you’re really into walking, you can easily find a trailhead and leave the city on an epic hike. Plus the city has built a huge trail running scene around its many long-distance routes.
Central-Mid-Levels Escalators
One of the most unique pieces of public transport infrastructure you’ll ever have the chance to use. And it’s free. In fact, it’s better than free: look out for the Octopus MTR Fare Saver machine on the escalator walkway near Tai Kwun. Tap your Octopus card on the machine, and you’ll get a two-dollar discount when you take the MTR from Central, Hong Kong or Sheung Wan station.
The escalators run downhill early in the morning, helping commuters from Mid-Levels reach their offices in Central. They then switch to operating uphill later in the day, helping those weary workers get back home.
See our full guide to the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators and find out how it can whisk you above the hustle and bustle of the streets, from Central, to Soho’s trendy bars and restaurants, and beyond.
Make getting around easier by using luggage storage
If you’re on a short stopover or a big day out in Hong Kong, there are loads of options for leaving your bags in a safe place so you can get around more easily. Radical Storage offers affordable options in locations around the city, and we have a handy guide to luggage storage in Hong Kong
Take a look at our in-depth guides to:
- Luggage storage at the airport
- Luggage storage at Hong Kong MTR Station
- Luggage storage at the Hong Kong-Macau Ferry Terminal
- Luggage storage at Hong Kong Disneyland
Cross-border travel: Macau, Shenzhen and Guangzhou
Macau
Macau is famed for one thing: casinos. In recent years, a concerted effort has been made to pivot Macau into a family-friendly resort destination, and quiet spots like Hac Sa beach still remain. (If you’re heading down to Hac Sa, don’t miss Fernando’s restaurant for their superb Portugese/Macanese cuisine.)
Getting to Macau is easy. The most popular and convenient option is the ferry from the terminal in Sheung Wan. The ferry takes roughly an hour. If you’re in a rush and have money to burn, you can catch a helicopter ride. If you’re really not in a rush, you can take a bus across the Hong-Kong-Zhuhai-Macau-Bridge.
You can see a comparison of all the options here, and a guide to using the Hong-Kong-Zhuhai-Macau-Bridge here.
Shenzhen
Shenzhen has rapidly grown into China’s third most populous city. A special economic zone, it has developed into an important tech-manufacturing hub, and has also developed a vibrant arts scene and nightlife.
You can cross the border by high speed rail, MTR, bus or taxi. But you’ll need to get a visa. This can be done at the border.
The cost of a five-day tourist visa varies depend on which country issued your passport. Citizens of most countries are eligible, make sure you have blank pages in your passport and check for any restrictions depending on your nationality.
All the details you need to plan your trip to Shenzhen can be found here.
Guangzhou
Guangzhou is one of China’s biggest and oldest cities. Known as The City of Flowers, there’s plenty to explore.
Our guide to visiting Guangzhou incloudes information on getting there by train, bus, boat, and by air.
As Guangzhou is in Mainland China, you will probably need a visa to visit:
- If you have confirmed connecting tickets and are only passing through China, holders of certain passports can visit Guangzhou for up to 144 hours without a visa. Check your country’s travel advice for details
- China has extended visa-free entry to 43 countries including Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Malaysia, Switzerland, Ireland, Hungary, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg, Australia, New Zealand, and Poland
- Residents of Hong Kong, you can apply for your visa at the China Visa Application Centre.
- If you are a permanent non-Chinese resident of HK, you may be eligible for a five-year travel permit with multiple entries to the mainland for short-term purposes such as investment, visiting relatives, tourism, business, seminars and exchanges
Happy travels!
This article was first published on 30 July 2025. While we do our best to ensure accuracy, some information, prices and timetables are subject to change.
