Hong Kong’s public transport is one of the most efficient, clean and safe systems in the world and there is a wide range of accessible options available regardless of where you live. These include the underground train (MTR), ferries, surface trains, buses, taxis and tram. Further details about all of these can be found in the “Public Transport” section. Public transport in Hong Kong is very safe; trains and buses are often under constant surveillance. In the past, minibus drivers had a reputation for driving erratically at high speeds but in recent years this has been the subject of much attention and the situation is improving.
Most of the minibuses now contain public speedometers that alert the passengers to the driver’s speed and offenses are treated very seriously. While the majority of public transport closes at midnight, many buses continue to run through the night and there is never a shortage of taxis available to take you to your destination at a very reasonable price.
The reliability and availability of public transport options that are available in Hong Kong means that it is possible to live in Hong Kong without owning a vehicle. If you choose to live in areas like Sai Kung or Clear Water Bay in the New Territories, however, then having a car becomes a necessity. While many expats do opt to purchase a car, owning or driving a car in Hong Kong is considered a luxury and comes at a very high price. Further details of the specific costs can be found in the “Private Transport” section.
On the whole, the roads in Hong Kong are not too congested and while some queues can be expected during peak hours in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai, it is rare to experience long delays due to traffic problems.
Hong Kong’s airport is well served by public transport and it is relatively easy to access it at any time of the day. The airport is very efficient and flights generally run on time when not impeded by weather problems like typhoons.
