Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Tickets
Once you've passed through the turnstile to begin a journey you have 90 minutes to
complete it before the ticket becomes invalid. If you have underpaid (by mistake or other-
wise), you can make up the difference at an MTR service counter next to the turnstile.
Peak hours
If possible, it's best to avoid the rush hours: 7.30am to 9.30am and 5pm to 7pm
weekdays.
Toilets
There are toilets in many MTR stations, though sometimes you have to ask to find
them.
Exits
MTR exit signs use an alphanumerical system and there can be as many as a dozen to
choose from. We give the correct exit for sights and destinations wherever possible, but you
may find yourself studying the exit table from time to time and scratching your head. There
are always maps of the local area at each exit.
Light Rail Lines
The MTR's Light Rail system is rather like a modern, air-conditioned version of the trams in
Hong Kong, but it's much faster. It runs in the northwest New Territories.
Departures
The Light Rail operates from about 5.30am to between 12.15am and 1am.
Trams run every four to 12 minutes, depending on the line and time of day.
Fares
Fares are HK$4.10 to HK$6.50, depending on the number of zones (from one to five)
travelled; children and seniors over 65 pay from HK$2 to HK$3.10.
Tickets
If you don't have an Octopus card, you can buy single-journey tickets from vending
machines on the platforms. There are no gates or turnstiles and customers are trusted to val-
idate their ticket or Octopus card when they board and exit.
Travel & Tourist Passes
TRAVEL CARD
Octopus Card
( 2266 2222;
www.octopuscards.com
)
The Octopus Card is a rechargeable 'smart card' valid on the MTR and most forms of public
transport in Hong Kong. It also allows you to make purchases at retail outlets across the ter-
ritory (such as convenience stores and supermarkets). The card costs HK$150 (HK$70 for
children and seniors), which includes a HK$50 refundable deposit and HK$100 worth of
travel. Octopus fares are about 5% cheaper than ordinary fares on the MTR. You can buy
one and recharge at any MTR stations.
METRO
Airport Express Travel Pass
