HongKong

๐ŸšŒ

Buses

Sections

1. Categories of Buses in Hong Kong

Hong Kong's bus system is divided into several categories, each serving different purposes and areas:

A. Franchised Buses

These are the main public buses operated by private companies under government regulation. The major operators are:

  • Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB): Covers Kowloon, the New Territories, and some cross-harbour routes.
  • Citybus: Operates on Hong Kong Island, cross-harbour routes, and airport routes.
  • New World First Bus (NWFB): Focuses on Hong Kong Island and some cross-harbour routes.
  • Long Win Bus: Primarily serves the New Territories and the airport.
  • New Lantao Bus (NLB): Covers Lantau Island, including Tung Chung and Ngong Ping.

B. Minibuses (Public Light Buses)

  • Green Minibuses: Operate on fixed routes with fixed fares.
  • Red Minibuses: Operate on flexible routes and schedules, with fares determined by the driver.

C. Airport Buses (A Routes and E Routes)

  • A Routes: Direct, faster buses connecting the airport to major urban areas.
  • E Routes: Cheaper but slower buses with more stops, catering to airport workers and budget-conscious travelers.

D. Cross-Boundary Buses

These buses connect Hong Kong to mainland China, including Shenzhen and Guangzhou.

2. Costs and Fares

  • Franchised Buses: Fares range from HKD 3.50 to HKD 50, depending on the route and distance. Cross-harbour and airport routes are more expensive.
  • Minibuses: Green minibus fares range from HKD 4 to HKD 20, while red minibus fares vary and are usually slightly higher.
  • Airport Buses: A Routes cost HKD 30โ€“50, while E Routes cost HKD 10โ€“20.

Fares are distance-based, so longer journeys cost more. Fares are displayed on the bus stop signs and inside the bus.

3. Payment Methods

  • Octopus Card: The most convenient way to pay for bus rides. Simply tap your card on the reader when boarding (and sometimes when alighting, depending on the route). The Octopus Card can be purchased and reloaded at MTR stations, convenience stores, and supermarkets.
  • Cash: Exact change is required as no change is given. Coins are accepted, but notes are not.
  • Contactless Payments: Some buses now accept contactless credit cards or mobile payment apps, but this is not yet universal.

4. Schedules and Routes

  • Schedules: Buses generally operate from 5:30 AM to midnight, with some overnight routes (marked as "N" routes) running after midnight. Airport buses and some cross-harbour routes also operate 24/7.
  • Routes: Each bus route has a unique number and a clearly defined path. Major bus stops display route maps and schedules. You can also use apps like Citymapper, Google Maps, or the operators' official apps to plan your journey.

5. Procedures for Boarding and Alighting

Boarding:

  1. Wait at the designated bus stop. Bus stops are clearly marked with route numbers and destinations.
  2. When the bus approaches, check the route number and destination displayed on the front of the bus.
  3. Board through the front door (for most buses).
  4. Tap your Octopus Card on the reader or pay the exact fare in cash.

Alighting:

  1. Press the stop button (usually located on handrails or near seats) well in advance of your stop.
  2. Exit through the rear door (for most buses).
  3. On some routes, especially on longer journeys, you may need to tap your Octopus Card again when alighting.

6. Local Tips and Cultural Considerations

  • Seating Etiquette: Priority seats near the front are reserved for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Offer your seat if someone in need boards the bus.
  • Queuing: Hong Kongers are very disciplined about queuing. Always line up at the bus stop and wait your turn to board.
  • Quiet Environment: Keep noise levels low. Avoid talking loudly or playing music without headphones.
  • Luggage: If you have large luggage, use the designated luggage racks (available on some buses, especially airport routes).
  • No Eating or Drinking: Eating and drinking are prohibited on buses.
  • Be Punctual: Buses in Hong Kong are generally punctual. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early to avoid missing your bus.
  • Check the Destination: Some routes have multiple destinations or variations (e.g., 1A vs. 1X). Double-check the destination displayed on the bus.
  • Upper Deck: Double-decker buses are common. The upper deck offers great views, but avoid standing or moving around while the bus is in motion.

7. Accessibility

  • Many buses in Hong Kong are wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs.
  • Audio and visual announcements are made in Cantonese, English, and Mandarin, making it easy for non-Cantonese speakers to navigate.

8. Useful Apps and Resources

  • Citybus/NWFB App: Provides real-time bus arrival information for Citybus and NWFB routes.
  • KMB App: Offers route planning and live updates for KMB buses.
  • Google Maps: Reliable for planning bus journeys in Hong Kong.
  • Octopus App: Helps you manage your Octopus Card balance and transactions.

9. Special Routes and Scenic Rides

  • Route 15: Takes you to The Peak, offering stunning views of the city.
  • Route 6X or 260: Scenic routes between Central and Stanley on Hong Kong Island.
  • Route 1 or 1A: A great way to explore Kowloonโ€™s urban areas.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll find Hong Kongโ€™s bus system to be an affordable, efficient, and enjoyable way to explore the city. Safe travels!