Transport & Getting Around
Getting around China: high-speed rail (CR400, 350 km/h between Beijing-Shanghai in 4.5 hours), Didi (Chinese Uber, in-app English support), Beijing/Shanghai metros (use Alipay or WeChat ride codes), airport transfers, and how to book trains as a foreigner using your passport. Also which Chinese taxi apps actually accept overseas cards.
9 answers
Why isn't my Octopus for Tourists card appearing in Apple Wallet after payment?
Set iPhone Region to Hong Kong in Settings before opening Octopus for Tourists; this fixes most missing-card cases.
Is a 3.5-hour layover sufficient for transit at Hong Kong International Airport when switching between different airlines?
3.5 hours is comfortable for HKG transit if your bag is interlined; the airside transfer security clears in 15-30 minutes.
Is Uber reliable for getting rides in less common areas of Hong Kong, such as Tsuen Wan Cemetery, where regular taxis might not be available?
Uber works reliably in Tsuen Wan; the HK app aggregates red taxis alongside private cars, increasing peak-hour matches.
Where can I purchase an Octopus card at Hong Kong International Airport if I am transferring directly to Macao, and will it work there?
Buy the Sold Tourist Octopus at the SkyPier 7-Eleven for HKD 39 (no stored value) or the standard Octopus for HKD 50 deposit; you do not need to clear immigration.
What are the best transport options from Hong Kong Airport to the Hopewell Hotel in Wan Chai, and are free shuttles still available?
No free Hopewell airport shuttle exists in 2026 — that benefit was discontinued and has not returned.
What is the best way to photograph the double-decker tram on Chun Yeung Street, and is there a specific schedule I should follow?
Only trams with the North Point 北角 destination sign turn into Chun Yeung Street; ignore Shau Kei Wan or Sai Wan Ho ones.
What should I do if I encounter an MTR service disruption in Hong Kong?
Open the MTR Mobile app first — it pushes English service updates faster than the platform PA, which lags 30 to 60 seconds.
What is the best itinerary and transport advice for visiting major sights like the Giant Buddha and Victoria Peak in Hong Kong during the May holiday?
Ride MTR Tung Chung Line to the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for Tian Tan Buddha; HK$235 return, 25 minutes each way.
What are the recommended time allocations for immigration and transport when leaving Hong Kong Airport during a layover?
Allow 5 hours minimum for a city visit; 7 hours is the safer threshold once immigration and Airport Express times stack up.