Navigating Hong Kong Airport: A Malaysian's Guide
This guide is for Malaysians, just like me, who might feel a bit lost at Hong Kong Airport. Let's break down the arrival and Octopus card process.
Arrival in Hong Kong
Preparation
Besides your passport and flight ticket, have these ready on your phone or printed out: Visa approval (if needed), hotel booking confirmation (showing payment), and return flight ticket. It makes things smoother!
Immigration Form
It's a tiny form, like an A6 size. Flight attendants usually hand it out before landing. Bring a pen to fill it out. If you miss it, there are counters near immigration with forms and pens (though the pens might be a bit dodgy!). The form is like carbon paper; fill the top copy, and it imprints on the bottom. The immigration officer keeps the top, and you keep the bottom. Keep this form safe! You'll need it when you leave Hong Kong. They advise keeping it with you, so I just tucked mine in my passport.
They might also give you a small slip of paper with the form. Some people throw it away, but I treated it like gold! I clipped it (don't staple or glue!) to my passport for future visa applications.
Immigration Process
Luckily, my arrival and departure were smooth. I'd heard stories of people getting pulled aside, which made me nervous. Dressing respectfully probably helps. Unfortunately, Malaysian visas aren't the strongest, so being presentable is a good idea.
Octopus Card: Getting Started
Octopus Card Collection (Counter A13)
Klook says to collect and return your Octopus card at Counter A13, but doesn't give much detail. Once you're in the Arrival Hall, look at the airport map. I've included an image here with the counter's location. The bus terminus is also marked for easy reference. You can find direct bus to your accommodation.
Returning Your Octopus Card (Counter A13)
When taking the bus from my accommodation to the airport, the bus dropped me at Terminal 1. Confusingly, I ended up on Level 7! Counter A13 is on Level 5 (Arrival Hall). Knowing your current level is key. Once you're on Level 5, use the same map to find Counter A13.
Departure from Hong Kong
Departure Procedures
There are two security checkpoints, one before and one after baggage scanning. Both require your passport and boarding pass. The second checkpoint asks for the A6 immigration form from your arrival.
Gate Information
Hong Kong Airport has over 230 gates in Terminal 1. Gates 1-39 are within walking distance on Level 6. However, for gates 40 onwards, you need to take escalators down two floors and then take the MTR to the gate. It's like taking a separate train, so follow the MTR directions carefully!
Airport Updates
I noticed ongoing construction at the airport. Currently, only Terminal 1 is operational. Your experience might be different in the future, so please take note of all current signage.
Alternative Octopus Card Acquisition
Octopus cards can also be purchased and topped up directly at the airport using ATM-like machines located diagonally to the left of Counter A13.
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