Major mobile providers in Hong Kong include CSL, SmarTone, 3 Hong Kong special administrative region, and China Mobile Hong Kong. Obtain local SIM cards easily upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, in convenience stores, and at official provider shops throughout the city.
Hong Kong offers widespread free Wi-Fi access. Look for "Wi-Fi.HK" hotspots in public places like MTR stations, government venues, public libraries, major shopping malls, cafes, and many restaurants.
Hongkong Post runs a reliable postal service. Post offices are located throughout the city, offering mailing services for letters and parcels, and stamp purchases.
Hong Kong's official languages are Chinese (Cantonese is predominant, Mandarin also spoken) and The english language. English is widely spoken in business, tourism, government, and by many younger residents. Most signs and announcements are bilingual.
Carry a Portable power bank. This keeps your phone charged for navigation, translation, and communication, especially where charging points are scarce.
Hong Kong's dynamic schedule includes specific operating hours and holiday closures.
Generally open from 10:00/11:FROM 12 to 20:00/22:00. Primary retail districts and malls have later hours.
Typically open from 10:00/11:00 to 22:00/23:00, some local eateries open earlier (07:00).
Banks: Weekdays 09:00-17:00, Sat 09:00-13:00. Government offices: Weekdays 09:00-17:00/18:00.
ATMs are widely available 24/7 in banks, MTR stations, shopping malls, and corner shops. They accept international cards (Plus, Cirrus, etc.).
Hong Kong observes a mix of Chinese and Western public holidays, including Chinese New Year, Easter, Labour Day, Buddha's Birthday, Foundation Day, and Christmas.
Check the Hong Kong government's official holiday calendar when planning your trip to anticipate closures and crowds.
Adhering to local customs shows respect and enriches your travel experience.
A simple "hello" or "nei ho" is sufficient. A slight nod of the head is a common respectful gesture. Handshakes are customary in business settings and when meeting new people.
Hong Kong is generally casual and modern in its dress code. However, modest dress, covering shoulders and knees, is respectful when visiting temples or religious sites.
A 10% service charge is often added to restaurant bills, and no additional tip is expected. Tipping is not customary in casual eateries or for taxi drivers.
Generally, photography is permissible in public areas. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in area markets or residential areas.
Hong Kong strives to be an accessible city for all travelers.
The MTR system is highly accessible, with elevators, ramps, and wide gates at most stations. Newer public buses are low-floor and wheelchair accessible.
Many major attractions have incorporated accessibility features, like ramps and elevators. Hong Kong International Airport offers excellent accessibility facilities.
The MTR provides tactile guide paths, audible signals, and visual displays at stations and on trains. Public information is often bilingual (English and Chinese) and includes visual aids.
The Hong Kong special administrative region Tourism Board (HKTB) website often provides detailed accessibility information for attractions and facilities. Local disability organizations also offer specific advice.
Pavements can get packed and uneven in older districts. The vast network of elevated walkways in Downtown and other commercial areas is generally accessible. Book accessible taxis in advance if needed.
