How to Book a Sightseeing Bus in Hong Kong?
The sightseeing bus in Hong Kong is an efficient way to explore the city, especially suitable for first-time visitors. Below is a detailed booking guide and some important notes:
I. Main Operators of Hong Kong Sightseeing Buses
- Big Bus Tours
- The most well-known sightseeing bus company in Hong Kong, offering open-top double-decker buses that cover major attractions.
- Routes: Divided into "Red Line" (Hong Kong Island), "Blue Line" (Kowloon area), and "Green Line" (Stanley and Southern District).
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Features: Includes free walking tours, Star Ferry tickets, and other additional services.
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Citybus Open-Top Sightseeing Bus (Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus)
- Operated by Hong Kong’s local bus company, featuring a nostalgic style.
- Routes: Divided into "H1 Nostalgia Tour" and "H2 Night View Tour," covering Central, Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, and other areas.
II. Booking Methods
1. Booking through the Official Website (Recommended)
- Big Bus Tours
- Website: www.bigbustours.com/hongkong
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Steps: Select language (English supported) → Choose ticket type (day/night/multi-day pass) → Enter date and number of people → Online payment (Visa/Mastercard/UnionPay supported) → Obtain e-ticket (print or save to mobile).
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Citybus Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus
- Website: www.nwstbus.com.hk → Select "Sightseeing Bus" section
- Steps: Choose route (H1/H2) → Select boarding date → Purchase online (account registration required) → Obtain QR code ticket.
2. Booking through Third-party Platforms
- Klook, Trip.com, KKday
- Advantage: Often has discount offers, supports multi-language interface.
- Steps: Search for "Hong Kong sightseeing bus" → Choose operator → Compare prices and place order → Receive electronic voucher.
3. On-site Ticket Purchase
- Purchase at Boarding Points
- Big Bus: Ticket booths are available at major stations such as Central Star Ferry Pier and Clock Tower in Tsim Sha Tsui (cash/credit card accepted).
- Citybus: Stations at Central (Star Ferry Pier), Tsim Sha Tsui (Peninsula Hotel), etc. (only Octopus card or cash accepted).
III. Price Reference
| Operator | Ticket Type | Price (HKD) | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Bus Tours | Day Pass (Adult) | Approx. 380-450 HKD | 24 hours |
| Citybus | Single Journey (Adult) | Approx. 34.2 HKD | One-way |
| Big Bus Tours | Night Cruise (with harbor tour) | Approx. 280 HKD | 2 hours |
IV. Boarding Notes
- Boarding/Alighting Rules
- Big Bus: Unlimited on/off at any station with your ticket (ticket stub must be kept).
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Citybus: Single journey tickets can only be used once; all-day passes allow multiple rides.
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Operating Hours
- Big Bus day routes: 10:00-18:00 (every 20-30 minutes).
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Citybus H2 night view line: 19:30-21:30 (every 30 minutes).
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Weather Impact
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Open-top buses close the upper deck during heavy rain, so it’s advisable to check weather forecasts before traveling.
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Transfer Connections
- Big Bus offers discounts when combined with Star Ferry or Peak Tram tickets, details available on their website.
V. Other Practical Suggestions
- Best Seats: The front row of the upper deck offers the best views; it’s recommended to arrive early to queue.
- Language Services: Multi-language audio guides are provided on board (including English and Mandarin).
- Night Cruise Tips: H2 line is perfect for capturing the Victoria Harbour night view; consider bringing a tripod.
- Refund/Cancellation Policy: Online bookings usually support free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance (subject to platform terms).
