Correction: @2:11 Firstly, the spoken language in HK is Cantonese, not Mandarin. Secondly, written Chinese are either in the form of 'traditional characters' or 'simplified characters'. In HK & Taiwan, traditional characters are used, and simplified characters are used in Mainland China.
@@Account_XD kinda yes & no? Cantonese is a spoken language but we do write in a way only people who know Cantonese can understand in informal situations. I often see Taiwanese couldn’t understand Cantonese writings despite the words were traditional Chinese
Actually the double decker buses are normally cheaper than the MTR or minibuses in Hong Kong. The bus route you pointed out in the video is actually a long-haul route heading to one of the outskirts of the city, and that makes it more expensive. If you take the MTR or minibus for similar distances, they will be even more expensive in most cases.
Overall speaking, the Taxi in Hong Kong is not very expensive compared to many other countries (FYI it is 23.5 HKD/~3 USD for the first 2 km and 1.7/1.3 HKD for every 200m afterwards). Taxi is normally cheaper than Uber in Hong Kong. Just be careful that some Taxi drivers may illegally charge you more than the meter reading. Remember the actual taxi fare in Hong Kong should always be collected according to the meter.
@@mariekriscastillo194 MTR is very accessible for wheelchair users as there is always a wide ticket barrier and elevator/lifts in each station and the trains stop very close to the platforms and always stop at the painted lines(queues). Your elderly family may find the walk to the platforms long if they are walking as some of the concourses can be long. If the bus stops near your destinations then they may be suitable
I would always take the double decker airbus from the airport but depending on the destination. Super cheap compared to Chris’ $70 AirPort Express, and he could have filmed the journey
If you're looking to save money, purchasing an Octopus card for the MTR is a cost-effective option to consider. Octopus cards typically offer discounts, and since you may not use the MTR for all your travels in a single day, buying a day pass could sometimes be unnecessary. Moreover, the Octopus card is a convenient payment option that can be used for all public transport in Hong Kong, with the exception of taxis, as well as at certain shops and restaurants like McDonald's and KFC.
Hong Kong actually has 3 different Colored Taxis. Red Taxis are the most common and found anywhere, Green Taxis are found in New Territories and Blue Taxis serve Lantau Island
Welcome to Hong Kong! I am a local, suggest you go have a day trip to one of the outlying islands, e.g. Lamma Island, Cheung Chau etc, you can take the ferry from the Central pier. Also, take the peak tram to the Peak, you can have a stunning overview of HK, especially the night view.
A fun fact about the buses - the fare depends on where you hop-on but regardless of where you hop off. Let's say in this video, everyone getting on in Causeway Bay is paying $24.7 no matter where they're going because it's a long-distance route. The closer to the final stop, the lower the fare. So technically, we would choose short-distance routes if we're just travelling across a few streets. Tbh, this fare system doesn't make much sense and very confusing if one doesn't live here. It's understandable why many tourists don't get it and why the bus driver in this video said nothing about it.
It is perhaps the most educational HK vlog I hav ever watched for the past year...You are an excellent vlogger, different from other commercial ones who only "suggest" boring spots repeatedly...
Hello Chris, I am Karan a senior citizen from India, I am following your Hong Kong series and will be visiting Hong Kong in August this year, you are doing an excellent job of providing knowledge, keep it up- Thanks.
I would say, the best of of living(not just for a trip) in HK is the public transportation system. Everything is cheap, compare to other international cities, efficient, and convenient. You can go anywhere just by MTR and Bus. It only takes you less than a hour to escape from the city and enjoy the nature. Then you can easily find a bus that drive you home. We also have bus that works at midnight till sun rise.
Still so much British influence here, love that the trams are called ding dings! Great video as always! The ferry looked epic, though as a foreigner to your good homeland, I found the Staten Island ferry pretty epic!
- There are 3 colours of Taxi - Red (Urban Area), Green (Rural Area), and Blue (Outer Islands). Green and Blue are relatively cheaper, but they are not allowed to enter the urban area. But e.g. in Sai Kung (the Pier hotel), there should be some Green Taxi hanging around. - There are 2 types of minibus - Green (fixed stops) and Red (roaming along the route). 2:37 this is a Red minibus stop, but you can actually take it anywhere along the line. You just need to waive hands for it like Taxi. And then when you're about to get off, just shout out "Yau Lok" to the driver (which means "I need to take off here"). - For buses, apart from the normal bus lines, there are also some special buses for tourists (e.g. the one at the back at 24:11). Even more fun than the normal double deck bus. - Peak Tram - Take you from Central to the Peak. Also a great sight-seeing spot there. - Cable Car - one in Ocean Park (another theme park in Hong Kong), one in Tung Chung (near the Airport) - Light Rail Tram - 7:16 The top-left corner of the map. Those yellow lines are the light rail system. If you use Octopus card and take MTR to there, you can switch to light rail for free. - Also a lot of ferry/boats going to different outlying islands. Some islands like Cheung Chau are very popular and full of people during the holiday. Just watched all of your Hong Kong series. Really glad that you enjoyed Hong Kong. Welcome again in the future and explore more!
KOL stands for Key Opinion Leader, which is equivalent to influencer in the US. The taxi driver was trying to ask if you are a social media influencer.
Chris I live now for three months here in Hongkong. And 3 Months are not enough to see this City really. 😅 u are right this City is so wonderful and great. I will not go away anymore! U bring the best impressions of this amazing City in whole UA-cam! Greets from a German in Hongkong 💪
That’s so cool to see that you’re enjoying the public transportation here! There is so much more modes of transport that you need to try! Cable Cars, Peak Tram, Light Rail, Red Minibuses and even the underground tram at Ocean Park - and even a escalator system in Central (if you consider a mode!)
I am a local, watching your videos are super funny to us. For the star ferry, if you wanna go the upper deck, there’s a separate entrance to it, just for a bit more expensive. You can ask anyone, basically almost everyone local in HK speaks English
It's not in Mandarin, it's just in Chinese traditional writing form, which is same for Cantonese and Mandarin but mostly in Taiwan, China uses simplified Mandarin writing form. Taxi is relatively cheap compared to the Japan, USA, Europe. That map at Choi hung station, is the map of the station and nearby facilities such as schools , parks, housing estates etc. Hong kong has no VAT so you can't do a refund at the airport, that's why prices are often cheaper here, but it was old days. Now that difference is inside the price, because if the expensive rent, so the prices would be +- same , cheaper or pricies depends what are you looking for and which currency are you exchanging too. Because HKD is begged to the USD, so if euro is down, everything becomes more expensive for you in HK automatically.
Loved these videos! I'm going to study in Hong Kong for a year in two months and these were really informative on just the bits and bops of etiquette and getting about. I've never been abroad so it's going to be quite the journey from the UK! Hope you had a lovely time Chris
As someone who was born and raised in HK, it is only after living in different country until you realise how affordable the public transport in HK is. MTR fares generally increase by distance but the most expensive fare is still less than three zone 1 rides on the London Underground.
23:53 You missed something very very important in the history of Hong Kong's Transportation history right in front of your eyes, the 3 red rickshaws. Back in the early 1900s Rickshaws was the major way of people travelling around the city, and at one point over thousands of them were in operation. As buses/taxis and MTR became the mainstream transportation method, the government stopped issuing rickshaw licenses in the 60s, and the industry simply faded out. Those 3 rickshaws you filmed right there, are the only 3 remining rickshaws in Hong Kong.
Double Deck Bus - the fare depends on the route you take. In the video, you chose to go to Tuen Mun, where is quite far from the center of the city. It costs around HKD12+. However, if you take the bus from or to Tsim Sha Tsui to Sham Shui Po, it only costs around HKD6
I’m so glad you found a really nice taxi driver！As a local, I think there many citizens would agree that normally taxi drivers are pretty rude or cold. 😅😅😅
You did a good job with the bus signs. Basically Chinese characters can be read in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese….Japanese characters are little different. The little details you do in your HK videos is awesome! 👏👍🙏💯
Hi, I am from Hong Kong , thank you for making this video about our homeland. Just a quick correction, and for those who are interested to know a bit more about the city. We speak Cantonese, not Mandarin as described in the video at 2:12. Also, when you are looking at anything written that's not in English, they are neither in Cantonese nor Mandarin, it's in full Chinese (or "traditional", a less accurate but more popular term) . That's what the text is written with on the bus route signage. Our concept of language is distinct from Western languages, in the way that our spoke language is independent from the written language. Take the globally used Arabic numeral (1234...) as example, you pronounce the number in English but it's really written in Arabic. Now, our entire language is base on this separation. We speak Cantonese and write in full Chinese. China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam all used to write in Chinese but speak in their own language, comparable to how France, Italy, German all write in Arabic numeral but speak in their own language when doing math.
Aside from the day pass, if you're traveling for more than a day, it's more convenient to get the Octopus card which is a cash card that can be topped up anywhere. It covers transportation and can even be used for shopping in most shops and stalls
HK MTR East Rail line has business class. You can take Catamaran from central to outer island. In Yuen Long and Tuen Mun has light rail. Also you must visit victoria peak by the peak tram and cable car to see Big Budda. You can also take High speed train to China and Turbojet to Macao. Victoria Harbour is not a river.
Did you visit the Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill? It is absolutely gorgeous! You will definitely be impressed by it! Just simply take the bus route 92 from Pak Sha Wan to go there directly. Next time if you travel to HK and live in Sai Kung again, you should spend a few more minutes to take the bus 92 to go to Diamond Hill instead of Choi Hung because Diamond Hill is also called the "Gateway to Sai Kung" which is the biggest transport hub in East Kowloon. It is way more convenient for you to go to the anywhere in HK from Diamond Hill.
I was born in HK, but left in 1977. Every time i came back to visit, it was always for 2 or 3 weeks max. Never enough time! You need at least a month! Btw, the cabbie asked if you're a K.O.L... which means Key Opinion Leader, which is basically a social media influencer.
Welcome to Hong Kong! The double deck bus is not that expensive than you think!! Just because the one you choose is for long trip to new territories, haha! Buses and MTR are the most convenience transportation. You are so lucky because some of the taxi drivers are not willing to travel for a short distance!! Anyway, thanks for you sharing and hope u enjoy!!
Chris you need at least 3 weeks in Hong Kong to discover & experience everything it has to offer... You really haven't even scratched the surface yet.... Nice video mate 👍👍👍
There’re red minibus and green minibus in HongKong. Red minibus doesn’t have certain bus stop. You have to voice out very loud in your seat: “有落唔該yao luo mmm gai!“
Every city has its pros and cons … As someone who’s from HK and had lived in several global cities for more than 25 years, I must say HK public transportation is really phenomenal. Our subway system (MTR) has to be the most efficient and frequently run in the world. Love your positive energy. Travel safe!
I would highly recommend anyone visiting Hong Kong to get an Octopus Card. They give you discounted fares and work on pretty much all forms of public transport. So much more convenient just swiping the card than buying individual tickets for everything.
Some areas where my wife grew up has light rail, also would have been good to explain about the Octopus Card, even for a few days it’s worth getting and you can get a refund when returning the card, the Peak tram would have been good to show also, I always go for a month and that still is not enough for me lol but I’d say 2 weeks is a good stay to see most things, there is so much more to see than what you have shown
At 2:02 This is the bus stop at Pak Sha Wan, Hiram’s Highway. You can see there’s some ads on the 1/1A/1S green minibus stop, sponsored by the local Distrct Council member, Mrs Fong Kok Shan, showing the details of new bus routes like the 96, 298X, etc… That red one on the right at 2:37 is for the red minibus to Kuwn Tong, and in the middle you can see the sign for red minibus to Mong Kok. They’re a bit more expensive. Not all red minibus routes allowed payments in Octopus, some only accept cash.
Im in Hong Kong atm i have been to 28 countries, and im pretty impressed with this country, everything is so scenic, i have never taken so many pictures before in any country, I've been here a couple of days and already over 150 pictures taken. It also feels so safe, and the majority seems very nice. The metro (MTR) is so good, the best I've seen, there is malls connected to many of them, and its so easy to change lines and they come every 3 minutes. Absolutely exceptional system! It always been my dream to visit Hong Kongs since i saw the movie Bloodsport with Van Damme, i was a kid, now im here. I still cant believe it. What a beautiful country ❤
It's not Mandarin, they are traditional Chinese writing. Mandarin is the official language spoken in Mainland China. Hong Kong speaks predominantly Cantonese which is also under the Chinese umbrella. They are all chinese.
i advise you to vist Nan Lian Garden, beautiful garden free admission, it's at Diamond Hill Station. just one stop away from Choi Hung MTR station, or you may walk to it, just 14 minutes walk.
They speak Cantonese in Hong Kong , not Mandarin . The bus stop timetables are in Cantonese and in traditional Chinese script , not Mandarin and simplified Chinese script
I was in Hong Kong for 3 and a half weeks in August 1988. Boy, was it very hot, humid and rain most of my stay there. I speak Cantonese so I had no problem conversing with the locals. The subway was very fast and efficient but I was not used to being pushed right in and pushed right out upon existing. I did not feel safe with all the pushing. In Toronto, Canada, it was not extreme like that.
Chris, Well, it will be more funny for you riding a red mini bus after midnight. You definitely will arrive the place you want to go in a blink of an eye. So don't forget to buckle up as soon as you hop in the mini bus.
Welcome to Hong Kong, Chris. I'm so glad to hear you like HK so much. It's really a lovely place to explore. BTW, for your safety, remember to buckle up next time when you are on the taxi or uber. It may fine you and the driver a penalty😅
Since you plan to stay for more than a week, you have bought yourself Octopus Card. It works like a debit card and it is accepted everywhere in Hong Kong for all transportation, restaurant and most local shops. No need to keep small changes. Octopus card is available in all MTR station. and you can refund the balance before you left this city
Really solid and informative video Chris. As always good job putting these together. The Star Ferry is amazing on a clear night or sunny day. Such a shame that we in California don’t have a public transportation system like in HK. I would 100% rather use that than drive.
I've been to HK 3 times. I only used taxi's twice and only for very long distances. I mainly used my Octopus card and public transport. The card is also good at 7 elevens to buy a drink and in HK you will get thirsty
Octopus Card can be used in most supermarkets and most fast food restaurant such as McDonald's and KFC and the favorite of the locals : Cafe de Coral that serve bargain delicious food
I mean not getting an octopus card is an epic fail. It works on all public transport and many venders in Hong Kong also accept it as payment. Fare with octopus on the MTR is also cheaper than single ride ticket. Fare are based on distance. Most buses are long distance, and so you’d pay a lot more if you get on at an earlier stops and only going short distance. It’s a little more confusing but generally people won’t use the 3 digits buses for short distance cause they are long distance buses.
Hi Chris , hope you enjoy your stay in HK and exploring the island. You should try checking out the Lantau island or Tai O . Tai O is a fishing town , partly on an island of the same name, on the western side of Lantau Island.
Chris in LA where you live they don't have double decker bus? In Singapore too we have bus stop and we have air con double decker and single decker buses. And the bus company from London Tower transit also is one of the bus company in Singapore.👍👍👍👍👍
I really enjoy watching people from other side of the world explore Hong Kong , we live here every day so sometimes we missed beautiful things and good stuffs, thanks ! BTW when you get on the ding ding , you can actually create the ding ding sound 😂
There is a star ferry in wanchai going to Tsim Sha Tsui and it is just a few minute walking distance from the place where you took a taxi to the ferry in Central.
In Singapore, there is no Ding Dings but there's articulated buses (long bus) which it feels like a roller coaster which is also pretty cool, tho the ding ding looks and feels interesting because most countrys don't have ding ding, I went to Hong Kong in 2017 which it's pretty cool, cus the ferry ride is cheap and the ding ding is very impressive.
How clean does the HK subway system look compared to the NYC system? Clean, safe, people behaving, and inexpensive. The USA has a lot to learn from countries like this. Thank you for showing the transportation alternatives.
Thanks for visiting our country and looking forward for your revisit! Although the views might be low, never stop making videos, I just discovered you from the Hong Kong series but I’m gonna start watching all your videos now
You took the Star Ferry! Where did you stay in hk this time. My fave was always the ferry and street car. The locals don't take the street cars, as they're too slow. so more for tourists and the expats. I once almost got my hand chopped off during December filiming and had my video cam outside t he window..it's very narrow between the street cars with both directions running. If you ever return, consider going in December. The decorations in TST is very nice. You can also have afternoon tea at the Peninsula nearby. You didn't bring your gf this time?
Hi Bro, you just picked one of the most expensive route buses , and it takes a long distance to go. Normally, HK bus fare is not that high even you compare to MTR (metro).
One of the best country in Asia and also environment is clean and people have very good discipline
😊😊😊
The police kidnaps innocent people. I'm hong kongese myself
Depends on the country and city. I went hiking on hainan - the tropical island province of China - and the entire mountain was covered in garbage.
thx!
Nope not really coz am a Hong Konger myself
Correction: @2:11 Firstly, the spoken language in HK is Cantonese, not Mandarin. Secondly, written Chinese are either in the form of 'traditional characters' or 'simplified characters'. In HK & Taiwan, traditional characters are used, and simplified characters are used in Mainland China.
Thanks a lot for that explanation!
just to add. those signs are writing the places in traditional chinese. if you understand chinese u will know where you are going.
Also, we write traditional Chinese but we speak traditional Chinese. We never write Cantonese
@@Account_XD kinda yes & no? Cantonese is a spoken language but we do write in a way only people who know Cantonese can understand in informal situations. I often see Taiwanese couldn’t understand Cantonese writings despite the words were traditional Chinese
@ ur from Hong Kong as well?
Actually the double decker buses are normally cheaper than the MTR or minibuses in Hong Kong. The bus route you pointed out in the video is actually a long-haul route heading to one of the outskirts of the city, and that makes it more expensive. If you take the MTR or minibus for similar distances, they will be even more expensive in most cases.
It is now
Is taxi/uber cheap there in hk? Cause i’ll be traveling with seniors and I don’t think they can travel by mtr
Overall speaking, the Taxi in Hong Kong is not very expensive compared to many other countries (FYI it is 23.5 HKD/~3 USD for the first 2 km and 1.7/1.3 HKD for every 200m afterwards).
Taxi is normally cheaper than Uber in Hong Kong. Just be careful that some Taxi drivers may illegally charge you more than the meter reading. Remember the actual taxi fare in Hong Kong should always be collected according to the meter.
@@mariekriscastillo194 MTR is very accessible for wheelchair users as there is always a wide ticket barrier and elevator/lifts in each station and the trains stop very close to the platforms and always stop at the painted lines(queues). Your elderly family may find the walk to the platforms long if they are walking as some of the concourses can be long. If the bus stops near your destinations then they may be suitable
I would always take the double decker airbus from the airport but depending on the destination.
Super cheap compared to Chris’ $70 AirPort Express, and he could have filmed the journey
The ferry ride brought back many fond memories when I was kid in Hong Kong with my grandma several decades ago. I was able to relive it in 2019.
I'm so glad that brought back memories! Thanks for watching!
If you're looking to save money, purchasing an Octopus card for the MTR is a cost-effective option to consider. Octopus cards typically offer discounts, and since you may not use the MTR for all your travels in a single day, buying a day pass could sometimes be unnecessary. Moreover, the Octopus card is a convenient payment option that can be used for all public transport in Hong Kong, with the exception of taxis, as well as at certain shops and restaurants like McDonald's and KFC.
Hong Kong actually has 3 different Colored Taxis. Red Taxis are the most common and found anywhere, Green Taxis are found in New Territories and Blue Taxis serve Lantau Island
Welcome to Hong Kong! I am a local, suggest you go have a day trip to one of the outlying islands, e.g. Lamma Island, Cheung Chau etc, you can take the ferry from the Central pier. Also, take the peak tram to the Peak, you can have a stunning overview of HK, especially the night view.
Thanks for the tips!
Word 🤟🏻
Same
@@Travelwithchris tip 2:you can also call an Uber and don’t interact with crazy ppl
A fun fact about the buses - the fare depends on where you hop-on but regardless of where you hop off. Let's say in this video, everyone getting on in Causeway Bay is paying $24.7 no matter where they're going because it's a long-distance route. The closer to the final stop, the lower the fare. So technically, we would choose short-distance routes if we're just travelling across a few streets.
Tbh, this fare system doesn't make much sense and very confusing if one doesn't live here. It's understandable why many tourists don't get it and why the bus driver in this video said nothing about it.
thanks
It is perhaps the most educational HK vlog I hav ever watched for the past year...You are an excellent vlogger, different from other commercial ones who only "suggest" boring spots repeatedly...
Thanks so much! I appreciate that!
Hello Chris, I am Karan a senior citizen from India, I am following your Hong Kong series and will be visiting Hong Kong in August this year, you are doing an excellent job of providing knowledge, keep it up- Thanks.
I would say, the best of of living(not just for a trip) in HK is the public transportation system.
Everything is cheap, compare to other international cities, efficient, and convenient.
You can go anywhere just by MTR and Bus. It only takes you less than a hour to escape from the city and enjoy the nature. Then you can easily find a bus that drive you home.
We also have bus that works at midnight till sun rise.
Still so much British influence here, love that the trams are called ding dings! Great video as always! The ferry looked epic, though as a foreigner to your good homeland, I found the Staten Island ferry pretty epic!
as a local,we call them ding ding from the sounds of the bell😂
@@pkhaha161True. There’re pretty special because they are only on the Hong Kong Island.
You should get a Tourist Octopus Card at the Hong Kong Airport.
- There are 3 colours of Taxi - Red (Urban Area), Green (Rural Area), and Blue (Outer Islands). Green and Blue are relatively cheaper, but they are not allowed to enter the urban area. But e.g. in Sai Kung (the Pier hotel), there should be some Green Taxi hanging around.
- There are 2 types of minibus - Green (fixed stops) and Red (roaming along the route). 2:37 this is a Red minibus stop, but you can actually take it anywhere along the line. You just need to waive hands for it like Taxi. And then when you're about to get off, just shout out "Yau Lok" to the driver (which means "I need to take off here").
- For buses, apart from the normal bus lines, there are also some special buses for tourists (e.g. the one at the back at 24:11). Even more fun than the normal double deck bus.
- Peak Tram - Take you from Central to the Peak. Also a great sight-seeing spot there.
- Cable Car - one in Ocean Park (another theme park in Hong Kong), one in Tung Chung (near the Airport)
- Light Rail Tram - 7:16 The top-left corner of the map. Those yellow lines are the light rail system. If you use Octopus card and take MTR to there, you can switch to light rail for free.
- Also a lot of ferry/boats going to different outlying islands. Some islands like Cheung Chau are very popular and full of people during the holiday.
Just watched all of your Hong Kong series. Really glad that you enjoyed Hong Kong. Welcome again in the future and explore more!
Any cheap but good food recommendations from you?
KOL stands for Key Opinion Leader, which is equivalent to influencer in the US. The taxi driver was trying to ask if you are a social media influencer.
Chris I live now for three months here in Hongkong. And 3 Months are not enough to see this City really. 😅 u are right this City is so wonderful and great. I will not go away anymore! U bring the best impressions of this amazing City in whole UA-cam! Greets from a German in Hongkong 💪
That’s so cool to see that you’re enjoying the public transportation here! There is so much more modes of transport that you need to try!
Cable Cars, Peak Tram, Light Rail, Red Minibuses and even the underground tram at Ocean Park - and even a escalator system in Central (if you consider a mode!)
Thank you so much! I still have so much more to discover in HK!
I am a local, watching your videos are super funny to us. For the star ferry, if you wanna go the upper deck, there’s a separate entrance to it, just for a bit more expensive.
You can ask anyone, basically almost everyone local in HK speaks English
It's not in Mandarin, it's just in Chinese traditional writing form, which is same for Cantonese and Mandarin but mostly in Taiwan, China uses simplified Mandarin writing form.
Taxi is relatively cheap compared to the Japan, USA, Europe.
That map at Choi hung station, is the map of the station and nearby facilities such as schools , parks, housing estates etc.
Hong kong has no VAT so you can't do a refund at the airport, that's why prices are often cheaper here, but it was old days. Now that difference is inside the price, because if the expensive rent, so the prices would be +- same , cheaper or pricies depends what are you looking for and which currency are you exchanging too. Because HKD is begged to the USD, so if euro is down, everything becomes more expensive for you in HK automatically.
For the ferry, just so you know, the fares for upstairs are a little more expensive and you need to board also upstairs at the terminal.
Loved these videos! I'm going to study in Hong Kong for a year in two months and these were really informative on just the bits and bops of etiquette and getting about. I've never been abroad so it's going to be quite the journey from the UK! Hope you had a lovely time Chris
As someone who was born and raised in HK, it is only after living in different country until you realise how affordable the public transport in HK is. MTR fares generally increase by distance but the most expensive fare is still less than three zone 1 rides on the London Underground.
Thanks a lot for the support!
You didn’t take the light rail in New Territories in Hong Kong
23:53
You missed something very very important in the history of Hong Kong's Transportation history right in front of your eyes, the 3 red rickshaws. Back in the early 1900s Rickshaws was the major way of people travelling around the city, and at one point over thousands of them were in operation. As buses/taxis and MTR became the mainstream transportation method, the government stopped issuing rickshaw licenses in the 60s, and the industry simply faded out. Those 3 rickshaws you filmed right there, are the only 3 remining rickshaws in Hong Kong.
exactly! so so difficult to find rickshaws!
Double Deck Bus - the fare depends on the route you take. In the video, you chose to go to Tuen Mun, where is quite far from the center of the city. It costs around HKD12+. However, if you take the bus from or to Tsim Sha Tsui to Sham Shui Po, it only costs around HKD6
Thanks for all of that info
I’m so glad you found a really nice taxi driver！As a local, I think there many citizens would agree that normally taxi drivers are pretty rude or cold. 😅😅😅
You did a good job with the bus signs. Basically Chinese characters can be read in Mandarin, Cantonese, Taiwanese….Japanese characters are little different. The little details you do in your HK videos is awesome! 👏👍🙏💯
Thank you so much!
You can hop on the upper deck of ferry if you get in from the other floor of the pier, which has a better view and air conditioning!
Hi, I am from Hong Kong , thank you for making this video about our homeland. Just a quick correction, and for those who are interested to know a bit more about the city. We speak Cantonese, not Mandarin as described in the video at 2:12. Also, when you are looking at anything written that's not in English, they are neither in Cantonese nor Mandarin, it's in full Chinese (or "traditional", a less accurate but more popular term) . That's what the text is written with on the bus route signage.
Our concept of language is distinct from Western languages, in the way that our spoke language is independent from the written language. Take the globally used Arabic numeral (1234...) as example, you pronounce the number in English but it's really written in Arabic. Now, our entire language is base on this separation. We speak Cantonese and write in full Chinese.
China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam all used to write in Chinese but speak in their own language, comparable to how France, Italy, German all write in Arabic numeral but speak in their own language when doing math.
Everybody should have an octopus card in Hong Kong. You can buy it from any MTR station.
I never used one, but I guess it could be convenient 🫡
Aside from the day pass, if you're traveling for more than a day, it's more convenient to get the Octopus card which is a cash card that can be topped up anywhere. It covers transportation and can even be used for shopping in most shops and stalls
For the "Ding Ding" there is actually one preserved from the 1940s, it's the car 120, try spotting it if you can!!
HK MTR East Rail line has business class. You can take Catamaran from central to outer island. In Yuen Long and Tuen Mun has light rail. Also you must visit victoria peak by the peak tram and cable car to see Big Budda. You can also take High speed train to China and Turbojet to Macao. Victoria Harbour is not a river.
Did you visit the Chi Lin Nunnery in Diamond Hill? It is absolutely gorgeous! You will definitely be impressed by it! Just simply take the bus route 92 from Pak Sha Wan to go there directly.
Next time if you travel to HK and live in Sai Kung again, you should spend a few more minutes to take the bus 92 to go to Diamond Hill instead of Choi Hung because Diamond Hill is also called the "Gateway to Sai Kung" which is the biggest transport hub in East Kowloon. It is way more convenient for you to go to the anywhere in HK from Diamond Hill.
8:55 that’s Kwun tong line THE MTR LINES HAVE NAMES THEY ARENT CALLED COULOR LINES
I was born in HK, but left in 1977. Every time i came back to visit, it was always for 2 or 3 weeks max. Never enough time! You need at least a month! Btw, the cabbie asked if you're a K.O.L... which means Key Opinion Leader, which is basically a social media influencer.
Welcome to Hong Kong! The double deck bus is not that expensive than you think!! Just because the one you choose is for long trip to new territories, haha! Buses and MTR are the most convenience transportation. You are so lucky because some of the taxi drivers are not willing to travel for a short distance!! Anyway, thanks for you sharing and hope u enjoy!!
What a happy vlog! I was watching with a smile all the while, thank you!
Chris you need at least 3 weeks in Hong Kong to discover & experience everything it has to offer... You really haven't even scratched the surface yet.... Nice video mate 👍👍👍
Yes definitely! I know that now and will return soon! Such a great city!
Very interesting video. Your explanation, It's awesome. Thank you for sharing such a nice video with us. Greetings from sri lanka ❤🥰🇱🇰🇱🇰🇱🇰
@@Travelwithchris it's my most favourite city to visit! Look forward to your next adventure in HK.
There’re red minibus and green minibus in HongKong. Red minibus doesn’t have certain bus stop. You have to voice out very loud in your seat: “有落唔該yao luo mmm gai!“
Congrats man! Very informative video. Im glad you were able to go and enjoy it. Thanks for all the insight. 5 star video!!
Every city has its pros and cons … As someone who’s from HK and had lived in several global cities for more than 25 years, I must say HK public transportation is really phenomenal. Our subway system (MTR) has to be the most efficient and frequently run in the world. Love your positive energy. Travel safe!
Yes absolutely! I hope to visit again soon though! Thanks for watching!
A must see video for All tourists to HK, Two thumbs up👍🏻👍🏻
I really enjoy watching this video about the transportation in Hong Kong. Taking the tram and the Star ferry are pretty cool😍
I always take those 2 when I visit. Its so nostalic
I would highly recommend anyone visiting Hong Kong to get an Octopus Card. They give you discounted fares and work on pretty much all forms of public transport. So much more convenient just swiping the card than buying individual tickets for everything.
That is very good to know! Thank you!
Love your positive energy.
All your HK vlogs are so amazing that they make me feel like I am also going around the place
Thanks so much! Means a lot to me!
Enjoyed your video. So informative. Thank you so much for showing the local side of Hong Kong.
Its amazing how much public transportation they have
I live in an area with zero transportation, not even uber.
Yeah very true! Dang, where do you live Pat?
@Travelwithchris i live in Southern Minnesota, a small, very rural town on the Iowa border.
@@patm5594Hong Kong's population is like 7 millions.
You should get a octopus card can be use on all transit get it at the airport and return there when you leave HK.
Some areas where my wife grew up has light rail, also would have been good to explain about the Octopus Card, even for a few days it’s worth getting and you can get a refund when returning the card, the Peak tram would have been good to show also, I always go for a month and that still is not enough for me lol but I’d say 2 weeks is a good stay to see most things, there is so much more to see than what you have shown
What an informative video you have made about the public transportation in HK, well done Chris.
Thanks so much! I hope it provides value to people
Thanks Chris for taking us all around Hong Kong with different types of transportation 😊, I never would of seen HG if it wasn't for you ❤️
If you are planning to visit, make sure to check the local weather, with a bright and clear sky the harbour view is absolutely stunning
Thank you so much. I’m hongkonger. I was born in Hong Kong. It’s still very fun to see how you explore my natal city.
At 2:02 This is the bus stop at Pak Sha Wan, Hiram’s Highway. You can see there’s some ads on the 1/1A/1S green minibus stop, sponsored by the local Distrct Council member, Mrs Fong Kok Shan, showing the details of new bus routes like the 96, 298X, etc…
That red one on the right at 2:37 is for the red minibus to Kuwn Tong, and in the middle you can see the sign for red minibus to Mong Kok. They’re a bit more expensive. Not all red minibus routes allowed payments in Octopus, some only accept cash.
Appreciate the vlogs showing HK. Loving the adventure thus far.
Thank you so much 🙏🏻❤️
Hi, it’s Connie from Hong Kong. I think you are absolutely right, HK has too much to explore that 2-3 weeks maybe just enough to travel ❤
Im in Hong Kong atm i have been to 28 countries, and im pretty impressed with this country, everything is so scenic, i have never taken so many pictures before in any country, I've been here a couple of days and already over 150 pictures taken. It also feels so safe, and the majority seems very nice. The metro (MTR) is so good, the best I've seen, there is malls connected to many of them, and its so easy to change lines and they come every 3 minutes. Absolutely exceptional system! It always been my dream to visit Hong Kongs since i saw the movie Bloodsport with Van Damme, i was a kid, now im here. I still cant believe it. What a beautiful country ❤
It's not Mandarin, they are traditional Chinese writing. Mandarin is the official language spoken in Mainland China. Hong Kong speaks predominantly Cantonese which is also under the Chinese umbrella. They are all chinese.
Far better transportation than many countries. Lived there & works as a doc for 5 yrs
i advise you to vist Nan Lian Garden, beautiful garden free admission, it's at Diamond Hill Station. just one stop away from Choi Hung MTR station, or you may walk to it, just 14 minutes walk.
Thanks for the tips!
Any plans to go up to Victoria Peak. It offers stunning views over the city!
I definitely wanted to, but it wanted to rain my entire trip! I'll be back though and make that happen
Been to the peak many times but I think I only got good weather once
Actually, within the MTR network, washroom is available only on the stations with interconnection, which are plenty.
They speak Cantonese in Hong Kong , not Mandarin . The bus stop timetables are in Cantonese and in traditional Chinese script , not Mandarin and simplified Chinese script
Thanks a lot for that info!
I was in Hong Kong for 3 and a half weeks in August 1988. Boy, was it very hot, humid and rain most of my stay there. I speak Cantonese so I had no problem conversing with the locals. The subway was very fast and efficient but I was not used to being pushed right in and pushed right out upon existing. I did not feel safe with all the pushing. In Toronto, Canada, it was not extreme like that.
If u want experiencing HK transport, the red minibus is fun😂😂😂. Ask your friend which line u can do. And do it after midnight would be even more fun.
Ahahah I need to try that!
Chris,
Well, it will be more funny for you riding a red mini bus after midnight. You definitely will arrive the place you want to go in a blink of an eye. So don't forget to buckle up as soon as you hop in the mini bus.
especially ride along castle peak road at night time,much more exciting than a rollercoaster ride in theme parks😂
2:38 That’s a Red minibus route iirc, you can hop on and hop off at any point along the route
I like watching your videos. Very informative and interesting! 😊
The public transportation in Hong Kong is so good, it feels like the city moves under your feet.
Yes!!!
I'll be there in August. This video helps a lot! Thank you Chris.
Welcome to Hong Kong, Chris. I'm so glad to hear you like HK so much. It's really a lovely place to explore. BTW, for your safety, remember to buckle up next time when you are on the taxi or uber. It may fine you and the driver a penalty😅
Yes , a video I can watch 😀, have a good weekend
Yes!!! I hope you enjoy it Brian!
@@Travelwithchris loved it, roll on your next one
Since you plan to stay for more than a week, you have bought yourself Octopus Card. It works like a debit card and it is accepted everywhere in Hong Kong for all transportation, restaurant and most local shops. No need to keep small changes. Octopus card is available in all MTR station. and you can refund the balance before you left this city
There is a ferry restaurant at the North Point district and it's pink in color and I think they have harbour tour too, but not expensive.
The best option to pay for transportation is definitely the octopus card
Good to see you having a joyful trip in HK !
Thank you so much
Really solid and informative video Chris. As always good job putting these together. The Star Ferry is amazing on a clear night or sunny day. Such a shame that we in California don’t have a public transportation system like in HK. I would 100% rather use that than drive.
I've been to HK 3 times. I only used taxi's twice and only for very long distances. I mainly used my Octopus card and public transport. The card is also good at 7 elevens to buy a drink and in HK you will get thirsty
Octopus Card can be used in most supermarkets and most fast food restaurant such as McDonald's and KFC and the favorite of the locals : Cafe de Coral that serve bargain delicious food
A full month for all those good food, a week for sightseeing.
Love to see you have fun to take the transportation here, there is lots other things you could experience in this little city
Yup another amazing Saturday morning with a video from the man himself.. 🫡 from Austin Texas. Safe travels my friend
I mean not getting an octopus card is an epic fail. It works on all public transport and many venders in Hong Kong also accept it as payment. Fare with octopus on the MTR is also cheaper than single ride ticket. Fare are based on distance. Most buses are long distance, and so you’d pay a lot more if you get on at an earlier stops and only going short distance. It’s a little more confusing but generally people won’t use the 3 digits buses for short distance cause they are long distance buses.
Next time I will have to get one
Hi Chris , hope you enjoy your stay in HK and exploring the island. You should try checking out the Lantau island or Tai O . Tai O is a fishing town , partly on an island of the same name, on the western side of Lantau Island.
Chris in LA where you live they don't have double decker bus? In Singapore too we have bus stop and we have air con double decker and single decker buses. And the bus company from London Tower transit also is one of the bus company in Singapore.👍👍👍👍👍
I don't think we have one in LA , but I will be visiting Singapore very soon! I hope you will enjoy those videos!
I really enjoy watching people from other side of the world explore Hong Kong , we live here every day so sometimes we missed beautiful things and good stuffs, thanks ! BTW when you get on the ding ding , you can actually create the ding ding sound 😂
The light rail in tuen mun, yun long and tin shui wai area exclusively
Comparing to a tube in London the one in HK looks super chill. Can't wait to visit
You should have taken the tram up to the Peak. Major tourist attraction. You missed that big time, bro.
There is a star ferry in wanchai going to Tsim Sha Tsui and it is just a few minute walking distance from the place where you took a taxi to the ferry in Central.
wow didn't know that! Thank you!
There's another entrance for the upper deck of ferry, just at the upper floor where you bought the ticket.
Keep up the great content Bro Chris 😊definitely amazing views 😊
Thanks a lot bro! I appreciate you man!
I believe your day pass is good for tram rides, bus rides too. They use the same Octopud cards.
Good to know!
27:00 you have to buy a upstairs ticket, and you’ll board from the entrance upstairs
In Singapore, there is no Ding Dings but there's articulated buses (long bus) which it feels like a roller coaster which is also pretty cool, tho the ding ding looks and feels interesting because most countrys don't have ding ding, I went to Hong Kong in 2017 which it's pretty cool, cus the ferry ride is cheap and the ding ding is very impressive.
How clean does the HK subway system look compared to the NYC system? Clean, safe, people behaving, and inexpensive. The USA has a lot to learn from countries like this. Thank you for showing the transportation alternatives.
Thanks for visiting our country and looking forward for your revisit! Although the views might be low, never stop making videos, I just discovered you from the Hong Kong series but I’m gonna start watching all your videos now
You took the Star Ferry! Where did you stay in hk this time. My fave was always the ferry and street car. The locals don't take the street cars, as they're too slow. so more for tourists and the expats. I once almost got my hand chopped off during December filiming and had my video cam outside t he window..it's very narrow between the street cars with both directions running. If you ever return, consider going in December. The decorations in TST is very nice. You can also have afternoon tea at the Peninsula nearby. You didn't bring your gf this time?
thank you Chris....u r amazing..
Hi Bro, you just picked one of the most expensive route buses , and it takes a long distance to go. Normally, HK bus fare is not that high even you compare to MTR (metro).