According to comprehensive reports from WorldWay: In recent years, the number of people immigrating to and studying in Hong Kong has been increasing. As an international metropolis, Hong Kong possesses many novelties and charms that attract students from all over the world to pursue advanced studies. However, as a hub of cultural exchange between the East and the West, Hong Kong has unique customs and traditions that those preparing to immigrate or study there should learn about and prepare for. As the president unit of the Hong Kong Investment Immigration Association, WorldWay has summarized the following basic common knowledge about Hong Kong. Let's see which ones are unfamiliar to you.
Language and Culture
Both Chinese and English are the official languages of Hong Kong. English is widely used in government agencies, the legal profession, professional sectors, and the business community, while Cantonese is the primary language for daily personal communication among Hong Kong citizens. However, do not worry if you do not speak Cantonese, as most service staff in restaurants, shops, and hotels within tourist areas can speak Mandarin. Furthermore, with the SAR government strengthening Mandarin education in primary and secondary schools in recent years and frequent economic and trade exchanges between Hong Kong and the mainland, many people are able to communicate in Mandarin. The mainstream religions in Hong Kong include Buddhism, Catholicism, Christianity, Taoism, Islam, and Confucianism. Due to the influence of Confucian thought, ancestor worship is very common.
Currency
The main currency in Hong Kong is the "Hong Kong Dollar." Generally, shops only accept payments in Hong Kong Dollars or by credit card, though some retail stores and convenience stores also accept Renminbi. Renminbi, foreign currencies, and traveler's checks can be exchanged at banks, money changers, and hotels; generally, it is better to exchange at banks or money changers. When exchanging, in addition to paying attention to the exchange rate, some banks or money changers may charge a service fee, so it is best to ask clearly before exchanging.
Visitors holding a "UnionPay" logo Renminbi card issued by a domestic bank can withdraw Hong Kong Dollar cash from over a thousand JETCO ATMs in Hong Kong that display the "UnionPay" logo. Such withdrawals are in accordance with the regulations of the People's Bank of China, with a maximum daily withdrawal limit not exceeding RMB5,000 yuan (equivalent in Hong Kong Dollars).
Office and Bank Business Hours
The office hours for most administrative agencies are Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The business hours for major banks are Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Banking services are also available at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Time Difference
Hong Kong is in the same time zone as Beijing, both being in the GMT+8:00 time zone.
Tipping
Most restaurants and eateries in Hong Kong will add a 10% service charge to the bill, but most fast-food restaurants and tea restaurants do not charge a service fee. In addition, when dining at Chinese restaurants (large restaurants or banquet halls), waiters often serve mustard, pickles, peanuts, and tea before the meal; this "tea and condiment fee" may be charged per person at the table. During the Lunar New Year, some restaurants may increase the service charge. Therefore, please check with the waiter before being seated. There are no set rules for tipping hotel staff and taxi drivers; travelers can tip at their own discretion based on the quality of service.
Mobile Communication
Hong Kong's mobile communication network supports GSM900, PCS1800, and CDMA systems. When visiting Hong Kong, you can easily use your mobile phone from the mainland!
Transportation
Hong Kong's transportation system is well-developed, and no matter where tourists stay, they can travel anywhere with ease.
Taking the MTR is most convenient with an Octopus card, which allows for smooth travel across all lines. Moreover, the Octopus card is not just for tickets; it can be used to "swipe" for payments in many convenience stores, and you can also top it up at these stores. However, the MTR in Hong Kong is relatively expensive; a few stops can cost over ten dollars, so it is best to have enough "ammunition" ready.
Escalators
When using escalators, please stand on the right; the left side is the "passing lane" for those in a hurry to pass quickly.
No Smoking
Smoking is prohibited on public transport, in markets, and in some public places in Hong Kong, so please do not smoke inside the MTR.
Visas
Chinese citizens holding a valid HKSAR Passport, Re-entry Permit, Seaman's Identity Book, or Document of Identity for Visa Purposes (DI) containing a valid re-entry visa or visa-free endorsement, and travel documents stamped with an endorsement by the Hong Kong Immigration Department, are exempt from entry permits when returning to the Hong Kong SAR. Chinese citizens holding a valid People's Republic of China passport and a connecting flight ticket who are transiting through the Hong Kong SAR from overseas and staying for no more than 7 days are exempt from entry permits. Tourists traveling to Hong Kong must provide the following materials:
1.A valid passport or other travel document;
2.One application form must be filled out truthfully and signed in Chinese or English, with clear and legible handwriting;
3.One recent front-facing, hatless, two-inch photo;
4.Other relevant information must be submitted if necessary.
Voltage
The voltage used in Hong Kong is 220V AC, and power plugs and sockets are mostly three-pin flat types. Many high-end hotel bathrooms are equipped with transformer power sockets for shavers and hair dryers.
Safety
Hong Kong has good public order, and the police force responsible for maintaining law and order is highly efficient, making Hong Kong one of the safest cities in the world. Police patrol the city continuously, day and night, to provide assistance to citizens and tourists.
Entry and Exit Information
Hong Kong is a famous duty-free port. Except for goods such as cigarettes and alcoholic products which are subject to higher import taxes, other items are generally duty-free or subject to very low import taxes. Non-Hong Kong residents entering with tobacco or alcohol are still subject to some restrictions: they can only carry 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 250 grams of tobacco, and 1 liter of bottled alcoholic beverages. The import and export of ivory raw materials or products are strictly regulated by law in Hong Kong.
Edited by WorldWay
