H O N G
K O N G
Transport Links
Hong Kong Tram in Johnston Road
H O N G K O N G I S a very small place when taking into account the seven million inhabitants that are squeezed into the city, therefore transportation has to be top notch to keep it moving. This makes it the perfect setting when faced with a jampacked schedule, while also providing you with plentiful opportunity to explore the city’s cultural offerings. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is the quickest and most modern way of navigating your way around urban destinations, however, if you have a little more time on your hands in between meetings and wish to take in more of the city on the way to your destination, this is perhaps not
16
Tung Chung line train, near Sunny Bay Station
the most preferable option. Hong Kong comprises five underground lines, including the Kwun Tong, Tsuen Wan, Island, Tung Chung and Tseung Kwan O lines; three suburban rail lines including West, East and Ma On Shan lines; the Airport Express; and a complex network of modern tram lines in the North West New Territories. Generally as a visitor to the city, you will become familiar with the busy Tsuen Wan Line, which runs from Kowlook to the New Territories and it is important to note a few things before entering. Firstly and perhaps most importantly, the consumption of food & drink both on the trains and in stations is forbidden and if you are caught, you could be liable to incurring up to a $2,000 fine. Fares will of course depend on the distance you are travelling and most ticket machines will not accept
WWW.ASIAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
PHOTO: BAYCREST
PHOTO: WPCPEY
Mong Kok is a rapid transit station on the Kwun Tong and Tsuen Wan Lines of the MTR system
anything larger than $10, however, customer service points will provide change for you and you have the option to use your card on the Airport Express. When seeking a slightly more traditional mode of transport, the city’s double-decker trams have been servicing Hong Kong for more than a century, and although they are perhaps a slightly more bumpy and rustic way to travel, for a flat rate of $2.30 you have the opportunity to see a lot more of the city and get in a little sightseeing. Busses and taxis are also a perfectly good option for finding your way around Hong Kong, however, it is important to remember that those options will only be as practical as traffic will allow, so be sure to afford yourself plenty of extra time when faced with a busy schedule to avoid any hold-ups.