Travelling around Hong Kong is fast, efficient, and surprisingly easy – thanks to the Octopus Card. Whether you’re hopping on the MTR, paying for snacks, or buying souvenirs, this little card quickly becomes your best travel companion. For families, especially those with autistic children, the simplicity and speed of using an Octopus Card can make everyday travel much smoother.
What is the Octopus Card?
The Octopus Card is Hong Kong’s rechargeable contactless smart card, used for public transport, shops, and attractions. Think of it as Hong Kong’s version of London’s Oyster card – but even more versatile.
You simply tap it on readers to pay for:
- MTR (subway) and Light Rail
- Buses and trams
- Ferries
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Circle K
- Fast food chains such as McDonald’s and Café de Coral
- Supermarkets, vending machines, and even some museums
It’s incredibly convenient and means you don’t have to worry about carrying coins or queuing for tickets.
Why it’s Great For Families
For families with children – especially autistic children or those who struggle with transitions or sensory overload – the Octopus Card helps make public transport less stressful.
- Quick tap-in, tap-out: no need for queues or ticket machines.
- Predictable routine: using the same gesture every time to pay can reduce anxiety.
- Can be used for small purchases: snacks, water, toys, or meals – no coins required.
- Children’s cards available: discounted fares for kids aged 3–11.
Types of Octopus Cards
There are several types to choose from:
1. Adult Octopus – For anyone aged 12 or above.
2. Child Octopus – For children aged 3 to 11 (half price on most transport).
3. Elder Octopus – For seniors aged 65+.
4. Tourist Octopus (Sold Version) – Preloaded and ready to use, often sold at MTR stations, the airport, or 7-Eleven.
There’s also a digital version called the Octopus App on iPhone or Android, which links to Apple Wallet or Google Pay – perfect if you prefer not to carry extra cards.
Where to Get An Octopus Card
You can buy a physical Octopus Card from:
- Hong Kong International Airport (Arrival Hall Customer Service or MTR counter)
- Any MTR station (Customer Service counter)
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Circle K, or VanGO
- Ferry piers or Light Rail Customer Service Centres
When buying a standard card, you’ll pay a refundable deposit (usually HK$50) plus initial stored value (commonly HK$100–150).
How to Top Up Your Octopus Card
There are several easy ways to add money:
- MTR stations – cash top-up machines or customer service counters
- Convenience stores – hand your card and cash to the cashier
- Supermarkets and some restaurants – accept top-ups at checkout
- Octopus App – top up via your phone if your card is linked to your device
- Add Value Machines – located near ticket gates in stations
You can top up in increments of HK$50 or HK$100, depending on where you do it.
How to use it
- Tap your card on the reader as you enter and exit transport or when paying at a shop.
- You’ll hear a beep and see your new balance.
- Keep your card separate from others in your wallet – if two contactless cards are together, the reader might not work.
If the balance is too low, the reader will flash red. You can still complete one last journey if your card has “negative value,” but you’ll need to top up before the next use.
Checking Your Balance
You can check your remaining balance by:
- Looking at the screen after tapping on a reader
- Using an Add Value Machine at MTR stations
- Using the Octopus App
- Asking at convenience stores
Can You Get a Refund When Leaving Hong Kong?
Yes! If you no longer need the card:
- Return it to any MTR Customer Service Centre.
- You’ll receive your deposit and remaining balance in cash (minus a small service fee if returned within 90 days of purchase).
If you want to keep it as a souvenir, you can – it remains valid for years, so you can reuse it on your next trip.
Tips For Using Your Octopus Card
- Keep cards separate for each family member to avoid confusion at gates.
- Label children’s cards if possible. We like to use stickers for things like this – it helps differentiate them easily.
- Avoid metal cardholders – they can block the signal.
- Download the Octopus App if you want to see spending history or add value from your phone.
- Watch the lights and beeps – green = success, red = failed transaction.
Is the Octopus Card Worth it For Tourists?
Absolutely. Even if you’re only in Hong Kong for a few days, it saves time and makes travel much easier. You’ll also get discounted fares compared to single tickets, and you can use it at most shops and attractions – from the Peak Tram to Ocean Park.
The Octopus Card is one of those little things that makes Hong Kong feel seamless and well-organised. It removes the stress of juggling coins, figuring out fares, or managing multiple tickets. For families travelling with autistic children, it can make every journey calmer, more predictable, and more enjoyable.
If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong, getting an Octopus Card should be one of the first things on your list after landing at the airport.
Planning a trip to Hong Kong? I’ve got you covered!
Start at my Hong Kong hub: where you will find links out to all of my posts about travelling in Hong Kong, our favourite autism-friendly attractions (along with a nice GetYourGuide discount code), travel and transport guides and so much more!
Already know what are you want to research next? Here are links to some of my guides so you can skip right to them: