Mass Transit Rail Services in Hong Kong

Most tourists across popular worldwide destinations tend to prefer resorting to car hire, as that enables them moving around at their own pace. This is definitely not recommended in a densely populated and compact city like Hong Kong. On the other hand that won't undermine the visitor as Hong Kong has one of the world's most efficient, safe and affordable public transport systems, comprising of frequent rail, bus, taxi, tram and ferry services throughout the entire region. There is no destination in Hong Kong which cannot be reached by at least one of those means of transportation.

A highly complementary factor towards the unparalleled efficiency of Hong Kong's transport system is the Octopus card. The card stores funds electronically and is accepted on most public transport services as well as convenience stores and fast food restaurants. The appropriate fare is automatically being deducted from the Octopus card, by simply placing it on the card reader facility. Octopus card is particularly convenient as most public transport requires exact change. Upon return of the Octopus card any remaining money will also be refunded. Octopus cards can be purchased upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport (Airport Express Customer Service Counters, Level 5). Purchase of additional funds as well as new cards can be made at most public transport customer service counters.

The Mass-Transit Railway (MTR) is Hong Kong's equivalent of the London Underground Tube. Comparatively, MTR is superior towards every aspect as it is faster, cleaner and more efficient. It is also cheaper, with fares ranging from HK$4 to HK$26 depending upon the journey. MTR comprises of six lines: Airport Express; Island Line; Tsuen Wan Line; Tung Chung Line; Kwun Tong Line and Tseung Kwan O Line. Overall, MTR should be the preferred choice of transportation as it effortlessly reaches many of Hong Kong's attractions and shopping outlets. The Kowloon-Canton Railway (KCR) is a fast train service comprising of three domestic rail services: East Rail, West Rail and Light Rail. These services cover Kowloon up towards the boundaries with Mainland China, via the New Territories. KCR also operates three intercity train services into Mainland China: Beijing line, Shanghai line and Guangdong line.