How to Pay in Hong Kong

Google services work fine in Hong Kong (unlike Mainland China), so Maps and Chrome are reliable. An Octopus card is non-negotiable for getting around. Pick one up at the airport or use the Octopus app on iPhone. Cash is still widely accepted but contactless payments are growing fast.

Payment & Finance Apps

Octopus for TouristsEssential

Hong Kong's stored value card in app form. Add Octopus to Apple Wallet, top up with your home Visa, Mastercard or UnionPay, and tap for the MTR, buses and convenience stores.

Pro tip: The tourist app is iPhone only. Android users can add an Octopus card through Google Wallet instead. Contactless bank cards now work at MTR gates, but Octopus is still needed on minibuses and at many food stalls. Refund your remaining balance before flying home.

App Store

AlipayHK

Hong Kong's most used QR wallet, accepted in taxis, wet markets, cha chaan tengs and on buses. It runs separately from mainland China's Alipay app.

Pro tip: AlipayHK is built for residents and topping up without a local bank is awkward. Most visitors do fine with a contactless Visa or Mastercard plus Octopus. If you already use mainland Alipay or an Alipay+ partner wallet, that works at many Hong Kong merchants too.

App Store Play Store

App details

Octopus for Tourists in other countries AlipayHK in other countries

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