Traversing Hong Kong via Train & Tram

Hong Kong is an exciting and bustling, English speaking city. It’s also easy to traverse the city via the MTR underground and double decker buses. The traffic is insane in Hong Kong. Unless you enjoy pulling out your hair in perpetual gridlock, taking a taxi isn’t worth it. Although they are inexpensive, the meter adds up quickly at a standstill.

While in Hong Kong, the Octopus card is an absolute necessity. It will take you wherever you want to go. Purchase the card at any customer service counter in the MTR station; only cash is accepted beginning in increments of $150.00 HKD. ($50.00 HKD is a deposit, which is returned to you) The card can be used for all MTR and KCR trains as well as the double decker buses and the Star Ferry. The KCR train whisks business people to Schenzhen on Mainland China in about an hour’s time. Additionally, the card comes in handy at any 7-11 store—they are all over Kowloon and Hong Kong. You can purchase anything in the store with the card. When the balance becomes low, just simply replenish it at any MTR customer service counter.

The Peak is an absolute must-see spot in Hong Kong. During 2008, the Peak is celebrating its 120-year old birthday. Every visitor is obligated to visit and view the incredible vistas of Hong Kong’s 7,422 high-rise buildings; outlying islands can be seen on a clear day. Unfortunately, Hong Kong has a serious pollution problem. On a daily basis, thick grey smog settles over the skyline. In order to go to the peak, wait for a clear day—time permitting. After a heavy rainfall, it can become clear. To avoid a long wait in line, go early in the morning. Try to avoid going on a Sunday, when the line is unforgiving. Remember, Hong Kong has wall to wall people.

To reach the Peak, head over to the Peak Tram Terminus on Garden Road where the ticket booth is located. A funicular takes you up the steep hill—about a ten-minute ride. (1,299 ft/96 metres) Set aside at least two hours for sightseeing.

For anyone who would rather walk down from the peak, there are lovely, circuitous footpaths leading to the base of the tram. If you choose to walk down, make sure you purchase a one-way ticket.

Peak Tram hours: 7am to midnight. Departs every 10 to 15 minutes.

One- way ticket is 22 HKD /$2.82 USD

R/T ticket: $33.00 HKD/$4.23 USD

Before leaving Hong Kong, don’t forget to get your Octopus Card deposit back. At the Kowloon Station where you’ll catch the Airport Express back to the airport, there’s a ticket counter. Simply show your card, receive the deposit back and you’ll have enough money for last minute souvenirs at the airport.

Tip: For one of the most outstanding skyline views of Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, stay in a harbour view room at the Kowloon Shangri-La Hotel. This luxurious five-star hotel caters to discerning travelers, offers all around impeccable service, a variety of restaurants and a breakfast buffet that is out of this world.

Hong Kong's Skyline

Star Ferry-Victoria Harbour

Shangri-La Kowloon Lobby

A Hong Kong Side Street

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