If you’re planning to visit Hong Kong, you may not be aware of the public transit options available. These may include the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), the Peak Tram, and minibuses. Fortunately, these options are relatively easy to use and provide an efficient way to get around. Hong Kong transit is not at all difficult to understand. After your Cathay Pacific plane lands, you are quick to go to your final destination.
Outlying Islands
If you’re planning a visit to Hong Kong, you should be familiar with the transportation network. There are several ferries and trams that travel around the city. You may also want to hire a car or use your own self-drive car.
The Star Ferry is the most popular ferry service for visitors. This ferry has been a local landmark for over a century. It is located at the Central Pier in Hong Kong.
The ferry’s ride across Victoria Harbour can be a short 11 minutes. However, it isn’t always cheap. The price increases by up to 50% on Sundays and public holidays.
Another option for transportation is the MTR, which connects Kowloon Peninsula to Lantau Island. In addition, there are several specialized lines that are diverted from the main network. These include a line that goes to Hong Kong International Airport and one that takes passengers to Disneyland.
For outlying islands, a ferry is the most convenient way to get from one island to another. Depending on where you’re headed, you can expect to spend anywhere from half an hour to an hour on the ferry.
When you arrive at the pier, you can purchase tickets to the islands. Prices range from HK$12 to HK$18. The cheaper options might not have air conditioning. A good route is to take the ferry to Mui Wo on Lantau Island.
A good choice for travelers who aren’t familiar with the layout of the island is a minibus. Most minibuses operate along pre-determined routes and are green in color.
Peak Tram
If you’re planning to visit Hong Kong, it’s important to plan ahead for Peak Tram tickets. You can buy them online, in person or at the stations. There are regular and fast track tickets. Fast track tickets will save you up to two hours on busy days.
The tram will take you to the top of Victoria Peak. This is one of the most famous forms of public transportation in Hong Kong. It is also one of the oldest. During the early years of its operation, the Peak Tram was powered by a static steam engine. In 1959, the wooden carriages were replaced with light-weight all-metal tram cars.
The cable-operated tram is an icon of Hong Kong. It has been an affordable way to travel for over a century. Several routes take passengers eastward through the Central district, including Happy Valley and Shau Kei Wan.
When you ride the Peak Tram, you’ll see the city skyline from several viewpoints. The best views are on the right side of the tram.
For more than a century, the tram has been an affordable form of public transportation. Several routes, including Shek Tung Tsui – North Point, Kennedy Town – Happy Valley, and Sheung Wan (Western Market) – Shau Kei Wan, operate. During the summer months, the Peak Tram is especially busy.
Besides the Peak Tram, Hong Kong has three other modes of public transportation: MTR, taxis, and bus. Compared to other cities, Hong Kong taxis are very inexpensive. Using a meter is recommended.
Minibuses
If you want to travel around Hong Kong, you should stick to the MTR and ferry services. These are some of the most efficient ways to get around the city. However, if you are looking for a cheaper alternative, you might want to consider minibuses.
Minibuses are smaller than the standard buses and can navigate tighter roads. However, they are not the most reliable at rush hour. Depending on the destination, fares can be as high as $2.58. Unlike other forms of public transportation, minibuses are not regulated.
There are three types of bus lines in Hong Kong. The green type runs along predetermined routes, while the red and blue types operate on flexible routes. You should ask the driver for details about a particular route, as far as fares and stops are concerned.
Green minibuses are operated by big companies, and cost a fixed amount. They typically accept cash.
Red minibuses, on the other hand, are rented to individual drivers. Fares are not regulated, but they are usually determined by the driver. In some cases, they can offer 24-hour service.
One of the perks of minibuses is that you can get off any time. It’s not uncommon to see these types of vehicles parked anywhere along the route, and you can yell for the driver to take you where you need to go. Some drivers even provide change if needed.
Trams
Trams are one of the cheapest means of public transport in Hong Kong. In fact, they offer an excellent view of the city. However, the trams do slow down in downtown areas. It is recommended to check the official timetable before riding the trams.
The first trams in Hong Kong were constructed in the United Kingdom. They had wooden roofs and canvas covers. There were only fifteen of these tramcars in operation when the Japanese occupation of the city began in 1941.
Today, the Hong Kong tram system is operated by RATP Dev and Transdev. Their terminal points are at Shek Tong Tsui, North Point, Kennedy Town, Western Market, and Shau Kei Wan.
The Hong Kong tram system is one of the world’s largest double deck tram fleets. It is also an efficient and eco-friendly means of transportation. Although the trams are a bit noisy, they are also convenient.
The trams are also popular with tourists and budget travellers. They provide a fast way to get to MTR stations.
You can pay your fare with coins or an Octopus card. Those under 12 are given half of the adult ticket price. Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
The Hong Kong trams are well maintained. Many have been rebuilt and refurbished. Also, they feature regenerative braking technology. This kinetic energy can be stored in batteries for future use.
Several tram stops are located on sheltered refugee islands. Several routes include a branch in Happy Valley.
Taxis
Hong Kong has an efficient and cheap public transportation system. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is the best way to get around. It is modern and clean. You can also ride the ferry or trams.
There are three different types of taxis in Hong Kong. Red taxis are responsible for most of the city, and blue cabs are available for those who want to travel to Lantau Island.
Minibuses are also common in Hong Kong. They have fixed fares. These fares are generally set at HK$2 to HK$23, depending on how far you are traveling. For a small group, they are convenient and efficient. However, they can be a bit confusing for non-Cantonese speakers.
Public “light buses” or minibuses, as they are commonly called, have fixed schedules. Passengers can use an Octopus card to get on these buses.
Taxis are the most affordable way to get around in Hong Kong. They cover virtually all areas of the city. During rush hour, they are a lot more abundant. Besides, taxis are easy to hail off the street.
Taxis in Hong Kong are red, blue, and green. They have markings on the front and back of the car. In order to avoid a possible scam, make sure the driver has a valid license. If you don’t see the driver’s details, ask for their number.
Taxi drivers don’t usually expect a tip. If you feel your driver is doing a good job, tip a little. Round up to the nearest HK$1 if you’re taking a short journey. Try to tip more for longer trips.