HongKong

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Taxis

Sections

1. Categories of Taxis in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has three main types of taxis, each serving specific areas and distinguished by their colors:

  • Red Taxis (Urban Taxis):

    • Service Area: Operate in most urban areas, including Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and parts of the New Territories.
    • Coverage: They are the most versatile and can travel to almost all parts of Hong Kong except certain restricted areas (e.g., parts of Lantau Island).
    • Cost: Slightly more expensive than other types of taxis.

  • Green Taxis (New Territories Taxis):

    • Service Area: Operate primarily in the New Territories and some parts of Lantau Island.
    • Coverage: They are not allowed to operate in urban areas like Hong Kong Island or Kowloon, except for specific drop-off points.
    • Cost: Cheaper than red taxis.

  • Blue Taxis (Lantau Taxis):

    • Service Area: Operate exclusively on Lantau Island, including areas like Tung Chung, the airport, and Disneyland.
    • Coverage: They cannot operate outside Lantau Island.
    • Cost: Similar to green taxis.

2. Fare Structure

Taxi fares in Hong Kong are metered and regulated by the government. Below is a breakdown of the fare structure (as of October 2023):

  • Red Taxis (Urban):

    • Flagfall (first 2 km): HKD $27
    • Every subsequent 200 meters or 1 minute of waiting: HKD $1.90 (up to HKD $93.50), then HKD $1.30 thereafter.

  • Green Taxis (New Territories):

    • Flagfall (first 2 km): HKD $23.50
    • Every subsequent 200 meters or 1 minute of waiting: HKD $1.70 (up to HKD $74.50), then HKD $1.30 thereafter.

  • Blue Taxis (Lantau):

    • Flagfall (first 2 km): HKD $22
    • Every subsequent 200 meters or 1 minute of waiting: HKD $1.70 (up to HKD $74.50), then HKD $1.30 thereafter.

Additional Charges:

  • Luggage: HKD $6 per piece.
  • Animals: HKD $5 per animal.
  • Tolls: Passengers are responsible for paying tunnel and bridge tolls, as well as any return tolls for the driver.

Tips:

  • Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Most passengers round up the fare to the nearest dollar.

3. How to Hail or Book a Taxi

  • Hailing a Taxi:

    • Taxis can be hailed on the street by raising your hand. Look for a taxi with a red "For Hire" sign illuminated in the front window.
    • Avoid hailing taxis in restricted zones, such as bus stops or near pedestrian crossings.
    • During peak hours, bad weather, or shift changes (around 4-5 PM), taxis may be harder to find.

  • Booking a Taxi:

    • You can book a taxi via phone or mobile apps. Popular apps include:
      • HKTaxi (available in English and Chinese).
      • Uber (though technically not a taxi service, it operates in Hong Kong).
      • GO Taxi (another local app).
    • Booking fees may apply, typically around HKD $5-10.

4. Payment Methods

  • Cash:

    • Cash is the most common payment method. Ensure you carry small denominations, as drivers may not have change for large bills.

  • Octopus Card:

    • Some taxis accept the Octopus Card, a rechargeable contactless payment card widely used in Hong Kong. Look for a sticker indicating Octopus acceptance.

  • Credit Cards and Mobile Payments:

    • An increasing number of taxis accept credit cards and mobile payment platforms like Alipay or WeChat Pay. However, this is not universal, so confirm with the driver before starting your journey.

5. Language Considerations

  • Most taxi drivers in Hong Kong speak Cantonese, and some may have limited proficiency in English or Mandarin.
  • To avoid confusion:
    • Write down your destination in Chinese characters or show the address on your phone.
    • Use landmarks or well-known locations to describe your destination.
    • Apps like Google Maps or HKTaxi can help you communicate your destination effectively.

6. Local Tips and Etiquette

  • Seating:

    • Passengers typically sit in the back seat. The front seat is less commonly used unless the back is full.

  • Route Preferences:

    • Drivers may ask for your preferred route. If youโ€™re unfamiliar, let them decide or use a navigation app to track the journey.

  • Receipts:

    • Always ask for a receipt ("sau fo" in Cantonese) in case you leave something behind or need to report an issue.

  • Shift Changes:

    • Around 4-5 PM, many drivers change shifts, making it harder to find a taxi. Plan accordingly.

  • Peak Times:

    • Taxis are in high demand during rush hours, late at night, and during heavy rain. Be patient or consider alternative transportation.

  • Airport Taxis:

    • At Hong Kong International Airport, there are designated taxi stands for red, green, and blue taxis. Follow the signs to the appropriate stand based on your destination.

7. Safety and Scams

  • Taxis in Hong Kong are generally safe and reliable, but here are a few tips to avoid issues:
    • Ensure the driver starts the meter at the beginning of the trip.
    • Avoid unlicensed taxis or touts offering rides at tourist hotspots.
    • If you suspect overcharging, note the taxiโ€™s license plate and report the incident to the Transport Complaints Unit (+852 2889 9999).

8. Alternatives to Taxis

If taxis are unavailable or inconvenient, consider these alternatives:

  • MTR (Mass Transit Railway): Fast, efficient, and affordable for most destinations.
  • Buses and Minibuses: Extensive network covering urban and rural areas.
  • Ride-Hailing Apps: Uber operates in Hong Kong, though it is not as widely used as taxis.

By following this guide, youโ€™ll find Hong Kongโ€™s taxi system easy to navigate and a convenient way to explore the city. Safe travels!