Got 7 Hours to Spare? Photo: maodoltee / Shutterstock Instead of spending long hours in the terminal, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) offers passengers an extraordinary experience: free guided city tours that take you from the gate to the heart of one of the world's most fascinating tourist destinations.
This is a unique initiative on a global scale, allowing passengers with layovers of over 7 hours to experience the charm of Hong Kong: from its famous skyline to ancient temples, from colorful markets to the illuminated night harbor. All of this comes with no additional cost.
Hong Kong. Photo: ShutterstockHow Does It Work?
Pre-registration: Up to 14 days before the tour date, via the website.
On-the-spot registration: At the Transfer Desk E1 (Arrival Level, L5, Terminal 1 - before passport control).
Meet the guide: At counters A03 and A04 in the Arrival Hall (L5, Terminal 1).
Two Spectacular Routes to Choose From
- Temple Tour: Heritage and Local Lifestyle
12:00–16:00
A journey into the spiritual and authentic side of Hong Kong: visit the famous Wong Tai Sin Temple, stroll through the vibrant Sham Shui Po neighborhood and markets, and discover local flavors.
Victoria Harbour Tour: Waterside and Culture
17:30–21:30
An elegant experience of a true Hong Kong evening: roam along the West Kowloon promenade, visit new cultural centers, and enjoy a breathtaking night view of the famous skyline from the Avenue of Stars.
The Hong Kong Tourism Board notes that the tours are conducted with professional guides on comfortable, air-conditioned buses, tailored specifically for transit passengers. They blend culture, urbanity, and landscapes to provide an exceptional experience without the worry of missing the next flight.
For those whose flight schedules don't match the free tour times, a selection of paid day tours is available in collaboration with Trip.com, with options to book online or at service desks.
In conclusion, Hong Kong has decided to transform the airport layover into an exciting cultural experience, giving travelers a taste of the city they won't forget.