How to Get to Hong Kong

How to Get to Hong Kong by Air

Towards the northern coast of Lantau Island on the Chek Lap Kok, is the Hong Kong International Airport, world’s third busiest airport buzzing with numerous passengers every day. With the inception of its second terminal in 2007, the airport connects more than 130 destinations across the world to the city of Hong Kong as a result of nearly 70 international airlines functioning in association with it. The most prominent aviation services in this region are provided by Cathay Pacific, British Airways, China Eastern, Virgin Atlantic Airways and Air New Zealand.

The Hong Kong International Airport is well synchronized with the transportation facilities available in the city. The smartest option out of the airport is the Airport Express Line, located beyond the customs, adjacent to the arrival halls. This high speed Mass Transit Railway facility accesses all the major destinations such as Kowloon and Hong Kong within minutes. The fares range from HK $100-$200 and if you’re planning on using this service frequently then consider the unlimited access pass worth HK $300 for 3 days.

Several buses run to and fro between the airport and the downtown areas at the city of Hong Kong. One such service is the Airport Hotelink, offering services ranging between HK $100-$150. The service provides a round trip towards all the significant hotels in the city within a span of an hour amidst comfort and ease. The tickets for this facility are available at the arrival halls of the airport.

If you are ready to sail in high spirits then board a ferry from the Tung Chung New Development ferry pier that is situated opposite the airport. You can reserve a place in one of the ferries at the counter located in the arrivals 5 next to the immigration department. Upon booking, you will be taken in a bus towards the ferry terminal.

And besides the services mentioned above, there is always the taxi that will drive to your desired destination. Cabs are convenient and affordable in Hong Kong. One can access areas such as the Central District and Tsim Sha Tsui in 30-50 minutes through this mode of transport. A taxi from the airport to the main districts in the city can cost up to HK $250-$300.

Facilities at the Airport

At the Hong Kong International Airport, terminals 1 and 2 will eventually lead the passengers towards the arrival halls. It is here that a traveler takes his first few steps and greeted by the counters of Hong Kong Tourism Board that are stocked with maps, guides and fact books loaded with info on the spectacular amalgam of cultures that waits to be discovered at the city.

But while you’re still at the terminal, curiously contemplating on what to expect from your trip, take a look around. Terminal 1 and 2 at the airport present some of the finest shopping and dining options in the world welcoming you at the gateway of Hong Kong.

How to Get to Hong Kong by Rail

Planning a trip from China to Hong Kong? Hop on a train bound to Hong Kong/Kowloon from Beijing or Shanghai. Similar services can be availed from the Kowloon Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC) at Guangzhou railway station.

From luxury cabins with superior facilities to affordable economy alternatives, the direct railway services between China and Hong Kong/Kowloon consume nearly 24-25 hours during the journey. Packages are priced around HK $1200-$200 depending on the amenities offered.

How to Get to Hong Kong by Bus

By Sea

One can journey towards Hong Kong by sea. There are a number of hovercrafts between China – Xiamen, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Hong Kong and occasionally ships go the distance too. From Macau you can get either a hydrofoil (75 minutes) or a jet foil (55 minutes). The ferries from China dock at Tsim Sha Tsui while the Macau ones arrive at Shun Tak Centre on Hong Kong Island.

Getting Around Hong Kong

The Octopus can be purchased for as little as HK $150 and recharged at the minimum price of HK $50. It is also valid in the Mass Transit Railway system, a preferred mode of transportation that ranks high in terms of service, speed and prices.

If you’re looking to forward to sightseeing while journeying towards your destination, then the double-deckers at Hong Kong equipped with facilities like air-conditioning and comfortable seats are an ideal option. Generally, the fare of these buses depends on the distance travelled by the passenger. The Citybus, Kowloon Motor Bus and New World First Bus run on routes covering every major attraction at the exuberant city of Hong Kong.

Taxis are also a convenient alternative for commuting in Hong Kong. One can hail a taxi on the street or ask for a pick and drop service from the residence. There are three kinds of taxis available within the various regions. The first is the Red taxi that operates actively on the streets of Hong Kong. However, for a ride in the Lantau Island, one needs to board the blue taxi. Green taxis are visible on the routes of the new territories.

Alert! While riding in a bus at Hong Kong make sure that you have the exact amount of change for the fare. So let those pockets jingle.