Transportation: Octopus Card

TRANSPORTATION - OCTOPUS CARD

In Hong Kong, getting around is a breeze with various transport options like taxis, ferries, railways, buses, and trams. The city boasts one of the world's safest and most efficient public transport networks, offering multiple convenient payment methods such as cash, Octopus Card, and e-wallets.

The Octopus card, a multi-functional smart card, not only facilitates effortless payments for various modes of transportation but also extends its convenience to a myriad of retail transactions across the city.

As students, we mainly rely on the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) System and buses for their affordability and accessibility. But, we also use other options to travel.

MTR: Getting around Hong Kong is a cinch with the MTR system, covering major districts and even extending to stops at the Mainland China boundary. The light rail system between Yuen Long and Tuen Mun in the New Territories is also part of the MTR network.
Buses: Hong Kong's buses are plentiful, comfy, and air-conditioned, with iconic double-deckers offering fantastic city views. Fares are paid when boarding, and Octopus cards are accepted on all buses.
Minibusses: Green minibuses operate on fixed routes with set fares, while red minibusses have more flexible routes. Octopus cards are accepted on green minibusses, and seat belts are a must when available.

For newcomers like international students, getting an Octopus Card is essential for seamless electronic payments across the city. As a full-time student in Hong Kong, you MUST apply for a Personalised Octopus Card with 'Student Status' for perks like a 50% MTR discount.

Here’s a quick guide to getting your Student Octopus Card in Hong Kong:

1. Fill in the online application form: Visit the provided link here, select New Application, fill in your details, and choose your school accordingly. Make sure to have your Student ID card scan ready.

2. Check your email: Await confirmation of your student status. Shortly after, you’ll receive collection details for your Student Octopus card.

3. Collect your Octopus Card: Head to the designated pick-up point to get your personalized Octopus Card with your picture and name. For first-time applicants, it will be HKD 90, which includes HKD 50, which will be deposited into the card.

Remember, renew your Student Octopus annually by following the same online application process and paying a renewal fee of HKD 20.

For more insights on transportation in Hong Kong, explore the provided link for additional details.