Joanna James
From navigating the raucous nightlife of Central and making your way through the bustling streets of Kowloon, figuring out how to use public transportation in Hong Kong is imperative if one is to have a good time there. The good news is that doing so is not hard at all once you get past the dense crowd. Here are five tips on getting around Hong Kong – relatively pain-free!
Opting to use the MRT is by far the easiest way to get around the busy city. The Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway (MRT) runs throughout the city in 11 major lines and covers over 260 stations. These include Airport Express, Ma On Shan Line, Disneyland Resort, East Rail Line, West Rail Line, Tseung Kwan O line, Tung Chung Line, Kwun Ton Line, South Island Line, Tsuen Wan Line, and Island Line. Interestingly those who wish to travel up to mainland China can easily take the East Rail line from Shenzhen. Connecting stations include Hung Hom Station, Kowloon to Lo Wu Station. Those planning to travel through the city extensively during the day can opt for the MTR Tourist Day Pass – as it’s the most wallet-friendly choice. The trains start running for the day sharp from 6.00 am to 1.00 am every day.
If catching underground trains is not for you, then travelling through Hong Kong via bus is also an available option – as it also offers you the chance to take in the sights of the city. Another benefit is that by opting to travel via bus, one can also travel to more exotic and beautiful locations in Taiwan such as the south side of Hong Kong Island, New Territories and Lantau Island. Bus fares are based on the distance travelled – which is why it’s best to carry exact change with you. For convenience, consider paying using the Octopus Card. If you're keen to sightsee in style while riding the bus, why not book your seat on a double-decker bus operating around Hong Kong. Most Mongkok hotels in Hong Kong such as Dorsett Mongkok Hong Kong will be happy to arrange for a booking upon the request of their guests.
Hong is defined by its iconic ferries – so it’s hardly surprising that hopping aboard one is by far the best way to get around the city. The best part is that ferry routes run all over connecting locations on the main island plus outlying islets such as Peng Chau and Lamma.
A remanent of its colonial past, Hong Kong’s trams are another rather delightful and inexpensive way to get around the city, especially in historic neighbourhoods such as Wan Chai, North Point and Causeway Bay. Passengers can pay by cash or via their Octopus Card.
Public transport is not for everyone, especially for those who cannot deal with large crowds. For those keen on opting for private transport, the cities’ many taxis are a comfortable and quick alternative!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
