The Complete Hong Kong Octopus Card & Transport Guide: Everything a Tourist Needs to Know


If you are planning how to get around Hong Kong, there is one tool you cannot live without: the Hong Kong Octopus card for tourists. It is more than just a transit pass; it is the heartbeat of the city’s daily life.



What is it?

The Octopus card is a reusable smart card used for nearly all public transport, including the MTR (subway), buses, ferries, trams (Ding Dings), and light rail. Beyond transport, it is accepted at convenience stores (7-Eleven/Circle K), supermarkets, fast-food chains, and even many vending machines. You simply "tap and go."


Where to Buy



  • Hong Kong International Airport: Arriving passengers can buy cards at the MTR Customer Service Centre or the "Buffer Halls" before reaching the arrivals hall.
  • MTR Stations: Available at the Customer Service Centre of almost any MTR station.
  • Types: You can choose between the Standard On-loan Octopus or the Sold Tourist Octopus(which features a unique HK-themed design).

On-Loan vs. Tourist Octopus

Feature

Standard On-Loan

Tourist (Sold)

Price

HK$200 (incl. $150 credit + $50 deposit)

HK$39 (No initial credit)

Refundable

Yes (Deposit + balance)

No (Balance only; keep the card as a souvenir)

Best For

Frequent travelers/Long stays

Short trips/Souvenir hunters

Digital Octopus: Apple Wallet & Huawei Pay

Skip the plastic entirely by adding a Smart Octopus to your phone.



  1. Download the Octopus App.
  2. Select "Add Octopus" and choose your card type.
  3. Transfer an existing physical card or issue a new digital one using a credit card.


  • Tip: This allows you to check your balance and top up instantly via your phone.


Airport Transfer: The Airport Express

The fastest way into the city is the Airport Express, taking you to Central in just 24 minutes. While you can use your Octopus card, you can often find an HK airport express discount by booking tickets in advance.



Getting a Refund

At the end of your trip, head to any MTR Customer Service Centre (including the airport station).


  • On-Loan Cards: You will receive your $50 deposit and any remaining balance (minus a small HK$11 handling fee if returned within 90 days).
  • Tourist Cards: You get the remaining balance back, but you keep the physical card.



Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

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