Octopus Card Hong Kong: Your Complete Guide in 2024

If you're planning to visit Hong Kong, one of the staple items that you'll need is the Octopus Card. As the most popular payment card in Hong Kong, the Octopus Card can be used on public transportation, in convenience stores, vending machines, and more. To ensure that you're prepared for your trip, we've put together this complete guide to the Octopus Card in Hong Kong.

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What is an Octopus Card and How Does it Work in Hong Kong?

The Octopus Card is a prepaid contactless payment card that was first introduced in Hong Kong in 1997. It's known for being incredibly versatile, as it can be used on most forms of public transportation, including buses, trains, trams, and ferries. The card can also be used to purchase items at over 20,000 retail outlets, including convenience stores, supermarkets, and fast-food chains..

To use the Octopus Card, all you need to do is tap it on the reader at the entrance of public transportation or at the cash register of a participating store. The card is very easy to use, and it's extremely convenient as you don't have to worry about carrying around cash or coins.

Where Can I Buy an Octopus Card in Hong Kong?

There are many places where you can buy an Octopus Card in Hong Kong, including:

• MTR stations: You can buy the Octopus Card at any MTR station in Hong Kong, and you can choose from a standard card or a special tourist version that comes with extra benefits.
• Convenience stores: You can also buy the Octopus Card at any 7-Eleven, Circle K, or Vango convenience store in Hong Kong.
• Airport: If you're arriving at the Hong Kong International Airport, you can buy the Octopus Card at the Airport Express Customer Service Center.
• Octopus Authorized On-loan Dealers: These are retail outlets that are authorized to sell Octopus Cards. You can find a list of authorized on-loan dealers on the Octopus website.

How Do I Add Value to My Octopus Card?

Once you have an Octopus Card, you can add value to it at any MTR station, 7-Eleven, Circle K, Vango convenience store, or Octopus Authorized On-loan Dealers. You can add value in increments of HKD 50, up to a maximum value of HKD 1,000.

To add value to your card, simply go to the add-value machine at the MTR station or ask the cashier at the convenience store to add value to your card. You can pay for the added value with cash or credit card.

Can I Use My Octopus Card on All Forms of Transportation in Hong Kong?

Yes, the Octopus Card can be used on almost all forms of public transportation in Hong Kong, including:

• MTR: The Octopus Card is the most convenient way to pay for the MTR. You can use it for all MTR lines, including the Airport Express.
• Buses: The Octopus Card is accepted on all buses in Hong Kong, including double-decker buses and overnight buses.
• Ferries: The Octopus Card can be used on the Star Ferry, which provides a scenic and affordable way to cross Victoria Harbour.
• Tram: If you want to travel like a local, you can ride the historic tram that runs along the northern coast of Hong Kong Island. You can use your Octopus Card to pay for the ride.

What Happens if My Octopus Card is Lost or Stolen?

If your Octopus Card is lost or stolen, you should report it as soon as possible to protect yourself from unauthorized use. You can do this by calling the Octopus Service Hotline at (+852) 2266 2222 or by visiting any Octopus Service Point.

Once you report your lost or stolen card, any remaining balance will be transferred to your new card. However, there is a fee of HKD 50 for replacing a lost or stolen card.

Octopus Card Benefits

The Octopus Card offers several benefits for users, including:

• Convenience: The Octopus Card is accepted on almost all forms of public transportation in Hong Kong, which makes it a hassle-free way to get around the city.
• Discounts: Some establishments offer discounts for Octopus Card users, such as fast-food chains and tourist attractions like the Peak Tram.
• Automatic calculation of fares: When you tap your Octopus Card on a public transportation reader, the fare is automatically calculated and deducted from your card balance. This means you don't have to worry about overpaying or underpaying for your ride.
• Remaining balance refund: If you're leaving Hong Kong and have remaining value on your Octopus Card, you can get a refund for the remaining balance.

Octopus Card for Tourists

If you're a tourist in Hong Kong, you can get a special Tourist Octopus Card that comes with additional benefits. The Tourist Octopus Card costs HKD 39 and includes:

• HKD 20 stored value
• HKD 2 deposit
• One-time HKD 3 handling fee
• Exclusive offers and discounts at selected shops and restaurants

You can purchase the Tourist Octopus Card at the Airport Express Customer Service Center, any MTR station, or at selected travel agents.

Octopus Card for Senior Citizens

If you're a senior citizen (aged 65 or above) in Hong Kong, you can get a special Elder Octopus Card that comes with discounted fares on public transportation. The Elder Octopus Card costs HKD 2 and includes:

• HKD 50 stored value
• HKD 50 deposit
• Discounted fares on MTR, buses, trams, and ferries

To apply for an Elder Octopus Card, you can visit any Octopus Service Point with your Hong Kong Identity Card.

Tips for Using Your Octopus Card

• Check your card balance regularly to avoid running out of funds.
• Keep your card in a secure place to prevent loss or theft.
• In case of any issues with your card, contact the Octopus Service Hotline for assistance.
• If you don't plan on using your Octopus Card again, be sure to request a refund for the remaining balance before leaving Hong Kong.

Common Issues with Octopus Card

• Card balance not sufficient
• Card not scanned properly
• Incorrect fare calculation
• Card lost or stolen

Frequently Asked Questions: Octopus Card Hong Kong

Can I use my Octopus Card on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge?

Yes, you can use your Octopus Card to pay for tolls on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. However, there are some restrictions. Your Octopus Card must have a balance of at least HKD 148, and you must use the bridge within 30 days of adding the value to your card.

Can I use my Octopus Card to pay for taxis in Hong Kong?

Yes, you can use your Octopus Card to pay for selected taxis in Hong Kong. Currently, only Green and Red taxis accept Octopus Card payment. You can look for the Octopus Card logo on the taxi window to see if it's accepted.

Is there an expiration date for my Octopus Card?

No, there is no expiration date for your Octopus Card. As long as there is remaining value on your card, you can continue to use it. However, if you don't use your card for an extended period, the stored value may be subject to a monthly service fee.

Can I use my Octopus Card to purchase items online?

No, you cannot use your Octopus Card to purchase items online. The Octopus Card is only accepted for in-person transactions at selected retail outlets and public transportation systems in Hong Kong.

How do I check my Octopus Card balance?

You can check your Octopus Card balance at any add-value machine at MTR stations or at any Octopus Service Point. You can also view your card balance by tapping your card on a reader with balance check function, which can be found at most MTR stations and selected retail outlets. Additionally, you can check your balance via the Octopus App or the Octopus Card website.

Conclusion

The Octopus Card is an essential item for anyone visiting or living in Hong Kong. It offers a convenient and hassle-free way to pay for transportation and retail purchases, and comes with several benefits and discounts. By following the information in this guide, you can easily buy, use, and take advantage of the Octopus Card.