Jazmin Li
Hong Kong International Airport is Asia's fourth-busiest airport and the world's eighth busiest airport, with around 71.5 million passengers handled in 2019. It offers plenty of amenities, including unlimited WiFi, shopping, dining, and even an indoor golf simulator. Travellers with long layovers can also choose to leave the airport and explore Hong Kong, provided they have at least a 6-8 hour layover to make it worth their while. It is important to note that some sources suggest that once travellers pass through security, they cannot leave the airport, and they may need to check visa requirements for entering Hong Kong.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Minimum layover time to leave the airport | 6 hours |
| Transport options to the city | Airport Express, taxi, airbus, MTR subway, tram, Star Ferry |
| Transport costs | HK$250 (US$32) by taxi from the airport to Tsim Sha Tsui (Star Ferry Pier) |
| Transport cards | Octopus card (HK$50/around $6.50 deposit) |
| Visa requirements | No visa required for nationals of about 170 countries and territories for stays ranging from 7 days to 180 days; US passport holders do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days |
| Attractions | Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, Repulse Bay, Aberdeen Fishing Village, Avenue of Stars, downtown areas, outlying islands, rooftop bars, mega-malls, local boutiques, wellness spas, golf simulators, Aviation Discovery Centre |
| Other amenities | Unlimited Wi-Fi, shopping, dining, resting lounges |
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What You'll Learn
Do I need a visa to enter Hong Kong?
The visa policy of Hong Kong deals with the requirements that foreign nationals wishing to enter Hong Kong must meet to obtain an entry permit or visa. Depending on the traveller's nationality, a visa may or may not be required to travel to, enter, and remain in Hong Kong.
Nationals of certain countries, as well as Macau permanent residents, can enter Hong Kong without a visa for tourism or business-related purposes for periods ranging from 7 to 180 days. All visitors must hold a passport valid for more than one month. Nationals of all other countries and territories require entry permits or visas from the Hong Kong Immigration Department directly or via one of the Chinese diplomatic missions overseas to undertake other activities, such as study, employment, or operation of a business.
If you are a Chinese resident of Taiwan, you should submit your application for an entry permit through one of the authorised airlines. There are separate information leaflets regarding the arrangements for entry in respect of residents of Mainland China and for overseas Chinese and Chinese residents of Taiwan.
Holders of diplomatic or official passports issued by certain countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for 14 days. Nationals of certain countries are required to possess a visa for any type of entry into Hong Kong, including as tourists, but are not required to have a visa to transit if they remain within the airport transit area. Nationals of other countries are required to possess a visa for any type of entry into Hong Kong and for transit (even if they remain within the airport transit area). Special rules are in force for nationals of China and Taiwan who do not reside in Hong Kong.
If you wish to visit or transit through Hong Kong but do not enjoy the visa waiver concession, or if you wish to stay beyond the entitled visa-free period, you must obtain a visa or entry permit before your trip. An application for a visa or entry permit to enter Hong Kong for a visit or transit may be favourably considered if you are physically present in Hong Kong at the time of application.
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How much time should I have to explore outside the airport?
The amount of time you should have to explore outside the airport depends on what you want to do and see. If you have less than 6 hours, your options are very limited, and you may prefer to stay in the airport. However, if you have 6 hours or more, you can start to explore Hong Kong's highlights, such as The Peak, Victoria Harbour, and renowned dim sum restaurants.
If you have 8 hours or more, you can consider exploring downtown areas and doing some sightseeing. Victoria Peak is a must-see attraction in Hong Kong, offering panoramic views of the harbour. The best way up to Victoria Peak is by riding the tram, but the queues are often very long, so if you are short on time, consider taking a taxi.
If you have a 12-hour layover, you can take the Airport Express to Hong Kong Station, enjoy a Star Ferry ride at Victoria Harbour, and walk along the Avenue of Stars. If you are visiting in the evening, you can catch A Symphony of Lights, renowned as the best light show in the world.
If you want to explore outside the airport, it is important to remember that you will need to go through immigration and security checks, which can take up valuable time. It is also worth checking if your passport requires a visa to enter Hong Kong.
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What are the transport options to and from the city?
There are several transport options for travelling between Hong Kong International Airport and the city. The Airport Express train service is the quickest way to and from the city, taking just 24 minutes to reach Central. Trains run approximately every 10 minutes between 05:54 and 00:48 daily. The Airport Express also stops at Kowloon Station, where passengers can check in for their flights.
Public buses are another option, with several routes servicing all of Hong Kong. Passengers can pay by tendering the exact fare, using an Octopus Card, or via E-Payment when boarding the bus. Bus operators may adjust the frequency and service hours of some routes, so it is recommended to check with the bus operator for the latest information.
Taxis are also available at the airport, offering a flexible way to reach your destination. Taxi fares are calculated by taximeters, with a ride from the airport to Tsim Sha Tsui (Star Ferry Pier) costing around HK$250 (US$32).
For longer stays in Hong Kong, purchasing an Octopus card can be a convenient alternative to cash for public transportation (including buses, the MTR, and trams) and some shops and restaurants. The card costs HK$150 (US$20), including HK$100 of credit and a HK$50 refundable deposit.
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What are the top attractions to visit in Hong Kong?
Depending on the length of your layover in Hong Kong, there are several attractions you can visit outside the airport. It is important to note that some sources suggest that once you pass through security at the Hong Kong airport, you cannot leave. However, if you have a longer layover, you can explore the city and visit some of its top attractions. Here are some options:
Victoria Peak
Victoria Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong. It is the highest point on Hong Kong Island, standing at 552 meters above sea level. You can take the Peak Tram, a cable-hauled funicular railway, to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the harbour. The queue for the tram can be long, so if you are short on time, consider taking a taxi up and down.
Avenue of Stars
The Avenue of Stars is a waterfront promenade located along Victoria Harbour. It is similar to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, with handprints and signatures of Hong Kong film personalities. You can stroll along the avenue, enjoy the views of the harbour, and even take a Star Ferry ride to admire the iconic Hong Kong skyline.
Nan Lian Garden
Nan Lian Garden is a classic Chinese garden located adjacent to the Diamond Hill MTR Station. It features a meticulous arrangement of plants, trees, and rocks in a Tang dynasty design. The Pavilion of Absolute Perfection, the Blue Pond, and the exhibits within the Rockery and Chinese Timber Architecture Gallery are all highlights of the garden.
Man Mo Temple
Man Mo Temple is one of Hong Kong's oldest temples and is dedicated to the god of literature ('Man'). It features a unique design and is a declared monument in the city.
Hong Kong Water Taxi Harbour Tour
For a different perspective of the city, you can take a water taxi tour of Victoria Harbour. This will allow you to see the iconic skyline from the water and get a closer look at some of the attractions along the harbour.
Temple Street
Temple Street is known for its endless authentic encounters and lively atmosphere. You can explore the street markets, try local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Hong Kong.
Remember to check the visa requirements for entering Hong Kong, as you may need a visa depending on your passport. Additionally, consider purchasing an Octopus card if you plan to use public transportation, as it is a convenient alternative to cash.
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What can I do inside the airport during a layover?
If you're facing a long layover at Hong Kong International Airport, there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained without leaving the airport.
Hong Kong International Airport has been hailed as one of the world's best airports, with spacious and spotless terminals, unlimited Wi-Fi, ample seating, and numerous charging stations. The airport also offers a wide variety of shops, stores, and restaurants with a large variety of choices. You can also avail of spa treatments or simply relax in one of the airport's lounges. The airport also has some more unique attractions, such as an indoor golf simulator and an Aviation Discovery Centre. If you're feeling hungry, you can even try some local dim sum at the Michelin-starred Duddell's.
If you're staying at a major hotel, you can book a seat on a hotel coach at the Commercial Services Counter in Arrivals Hall B, Terminal 1. This will deliver you directly to your hotel. If you have a longer layover, it's worth picking up an Octopus card at the airport, an MTR station, or any convenience store. These are available for an HK$50 (around $6.50) deposit, which you'll get back when the card is returned. Once you load up the card, you can use it to pay for purchases on public transport, in some cafes, and even in 7-Elevens.
If you're planning to leave the airport during your layover, make sure to check the visa information for your nationality, as you may need to apply for a visa if you plan on leaving the airport transit area.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can leave the airport during your layover in Hong Kong, but you need to check the visa requirements for your nationality. If you have less than 6 hours, you may not have time to go beyond the airport or its immediate surroundings.
The fastest way to get to the city is by Airport Express, which takes 24-30 minutes. By taxi or airbus, it takes 45-90 minutes.
If you have a short layover, you can enjoy the airport's amenities, including unlimited WiFi, shopping, dining, and spas.
If you have 6+ hours, you can explore Hong Kong's highlights, including Victoria Peak, Victoria Harbour, and dim sum restaurants. With 8+ hours, you can visit downtown areas and do some sightseeing.
There are various transport options from Hong Kong airport, including the Airport Express, taxi, public bus, MTR subway, and tram.
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