The Octopus Card

I’ve shared my love for Hong Kong’s MTR in more than one post, but I haven’t really talked about how traveling the MTR is made possible, and the answer is this little card right here: the Octopus card.

Coming from Philadelphia, where we were still using tokens to get around on the subway, the Octopus card is a welcomed upgrade. It’s simple, really.

At each entry and exit point you scan your card and money is immediately deducted from your account. The keypad also tells you your remaining balance. Live and die by the remaining balance. People don’t take too kindly to someone who holds up the line because the keypad is buzzing and the turnstile stops. Your balance is determined by how far you travel. It’s like the E-ZPass on the turnpike, the card knows how far you’ve traveled based on where you checked in last. There are no ride requirements either, you just load however much money you want to include (at least $100 HKD, which equates to almost $13 USD) and you’re free to use it as you wish.

The Octopus card can be used on all modes of transportation in Hong Kong, including the buses, minibuses, trams, peak tram and the ferry. Additionally, and this is the best part, you can use your Octopus card at all major convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven, fast food restaurants, supermarkets, bakeries and self-service vending machines. You can even use it at Starbucks, people!

I know it's silly that I find something as simple as a credit card so fascinating, but it makes my life much easier, and who wouldn’t love that? Being here a month, one of the things I’ve learned is that Hong Kongers like efficiency, which they’ve totally nailed with the Octopus card.

I believe the Octopus card is similar to the Metro card in Washington D.C. and New York. If you’re an owner of one of these cards, you understand my excitement!