Why You Should Still Get an Octopus Card in Hong Kong
When travelling to Hong Kong, you’ll quickly notice how modern and cashless the city is. Almost everywhere accepts digital payments like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and WeChat. Because of that, some travellers think getting an Octopus Card is unnecessary.
Trust me — it’s still one of the best things you can have while exploring Hong Kong.
The Octopus Card is a reloadable contactless card that works not only for transportation, like the MTR, buses, ferries, and trams, but also in convenience stores, restaurants, vending machines, supermarkets, and even some attractions.
What makes it so convenient is how fast and seamless everything becomes. No need to keep pulling out your credit card or worrying whether your international card will work.
I learned this the hard way during one of my walks along the famous Avenue of Stars.
It was a hot afternoon, and I decided to enjoy the waterfront views while walking the long promenade. Halfway through, I got really thirsty and spotted a vending machine with several cold drinks. Perfect timing — or so I thought.
After choosing my drink, I realised the machine only accepted Octopus Card payments. No Visa. No Mastercard. No mobile tap payments.
Since I left my Octopus Card at the hotel, I ended up walking almost 500 meters to the nearest 7-Eleven just to buy water.
That moment alone convinced me that having an Octopus Card isn’t just convenient — it’s practical.
Why It’s Worth Getting
Here are a few reasons why I highly recommend getting one:
- Faster access to public transportation
- Accepted in thousands of stores and restaurants
- Works in vending machines and small kiosks
- Reloadable at stations and convenience stores
- Saves time versus constantly using cash or cards
For tourists, you can easily purchase one at airport counters, MTR stations, or convenience stores like 7/11 once you arrive in Hong Kong.
Even in a city that’s incredibly advanced with digital payments, the Octopus Card still feels like the true local way to get around.
And if you’re planning to explore as much as possible — especially during summer — you’ll definitely appreciate being able to instantly grab a cold drink without needing to search for another store nearby.
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