Hong Kong is a city that's always buzzing, no wonder there are more and more tourists visiting this country. It's famous for its incredible skyline, the busy harbour, and a culture that's always changing and exciting.

You can find all sorts of things to do here. Go shopping in Causeway Bay, visit the giant Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau Island, or hike along the Dragon's Back for amazing views. And don't miss the Temple Street Night Market – it's a feast for your eyes and your stomach!

When visiting Hong Kong for leisure or doing business, it's essential to understand the various payment methods commonly used. The city presents many choices for both consumers and businesses.

Traveloka will help you learn all kinds of payment methods in Hong Kong, focusing on B2C (Business to Consumer) and B2B (Business to Business) transactions. Whether you're a visitor or a business owner, this guide will help you navigate payment methods in Hong Kong!

Cash remains a vital payment method in Hong Kong, especially in local markets, small eateries, and older establishments that might not accept cards. Use cash for those wondering how to pay in Hong Kong as a foreigner.

This method remains the most widely accepted form of payment in Hong Kong, especially for small businesses and street vendors. The official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HK$), pegged to the US Dollar at HK$7.80 = US$1.

One of the advantages of using cash is its universality – it’s accepted everywhere, from high-end boutiques to street vendors. For tourists venturing into more traditional areas or smaller districts, cash ensures smooth transactions.

The Octopus Card is synonymous with convenience in Hong Kong. Originally designed for public transport, this stored-value smart card has evolved into a versatile payment tool used widely across the city.

From MTR rides to purchases at convenience stores to vending machines, the Octopus Card is indispensable for both locals and tourists. You can top up the card at MTR stations, convenience stores, or online, making it an incredibly user-friendly option.

One of the Octopus Card's biggest advantages is its offline functionality, which doesn’t require a constant internet connection or a linked bank account. Additionally, tourists can purchase a tourist-specific Octopus Card with preloaded value, providing a hassle-free start to their Hong Kong experience.

Contactless credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Hong Kong, particularly in retail stores, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Major card providers such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express offer contactless capabilities, allowing users to tap their card on a payment terminal for quick and secure transactions.

This payment method is especially popular for medium to large purchases, providing an excellent option for those who prefer to avoid cash. What makes contactless cards appealing in Hong Kong is their compatibility with global payment systems.

Tourists can often use their home country’s contactless cards without any issue, though it’s essential to confirm with the issuing bank about potential foreign transaction fees.4. Mobile Payment Apps (E-Wallets)

Hong Kong has embraced mobile payment apps with enthusiasm, especially for the young generation. These apps allow users to link their bank accounts or credit cards to make instant payments through QR codes or NFC technology. Some of the most frequently used e-wallets in Hong Kong include:

With these Hong Kong payment apps' flexibility, paying for products and services online and offline is simpler. Companies that allow e-wallet payments typically draw on a broader clientele.

Digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are steadily gaining popularity in Hong Kong. By linking their credit or debit cards to their smartphones, users can make payments by simply tapping their device on a contactless terminal.

This method is fast, secure, and eliminates the need to carry physical cards or cash, appealing particularly to tech-savvy users. Apple Pay, in particular, has a strong foothold due to its seamless integration with Apple devices and its widespread acceptance in Hong Kong.

For tourists, this method offers an added layer of security, as biometric authentication ensures safe transactions. However, it’s essential to confirm if your bank supports these digital wallets for international use before relying on them entirely during your visit.

UnionPay is a popular payment method among tourists from Mainland China and has a strong presence in Hong Kong. Accepted at major retailers, restaurants, and tourist attractions, UnionPay is known for its ease of use and favourable exchange rates for cross-border transactions. The cards can be used for contactless payments, chip-and-pin transactions, or online shopping.

For visitors from Mainland China, UnionPay offers a seamless experience as many cards are pre-linked to mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. For international travelers, UnionPay cards may also be an option, but it’s essential to check compatibility with local merchants.

The Faster Payment System (FPS) is a local initiative that enables instant bank-to-bank or app-to-app transfers. This system is widely used by residents but is also beneficial for long-term visitors who may have a local bank account. FPS uses QR codes to facilitate payments and is supported by most banks and mobile payment apps in Hong Kong.

For small businesses and local markets, FPS provides a cost-effective alternative to card-based systems. Although less relevant for short-term tourists, it’s an excellent option for expatriates or extended stays in Hong Kong.

Although their popularity has declined, cheques are still used in Hong Kong, particularly for B2B payments. In December 2015, Hong Kong introduced the e-Cheque system, which digitises the cheque payment process and offers a more convenient alternative.

Businesses that prefer traditional methods but want to modernise their payment processes often opt for e-checks as they combine the familiarity of cheques with the convenience of digital transactions.

American Express cards are widely accepted in Hong Kong, particularly in premium establishments like luxury hotels, high-end restaurants, and upscale retail stores. AMEX offers various benefits such as rewards points and travel insurance, which appeal to business travellers and affluent tourists.

However, AMEX may not be accepted in smaller establishments or local markets due to higher transaction fees. Tourists planning to rely on AMEX should carry an alternative payment method for flexibility.

Cryptocurrency payments are slowly gaining traction in tech-forward cities like Hong Kong. Select businesses, particularly in the tech and retail sectors, are beginning to accept payments in Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. Crypto ATMs in Hong Kong also make it easier for tech-savvy travellers to convert digital assets into local currency.

While not yet mainstream, cryptocurrency offers an alternative for those familiar with blockchain technology. However, tourists should confirm acceptance beforehand and be aware of potential volatility in exchange rates.

Gift cards and prepaid cards, such as those issued by Visa or Mastercard, are a flexible option for tourists. These cards can be loaded with a specific amount of money and used just like a regular debit or credit card. They are widely accepted in retail stores, restaurants, and attractions, providing an easy way to manage spending without carrying cash.

Prepaid cards also help travellers avoid currency exchange issues, as they are loaded in Hong Kong dollars. These cards are especially useful for families or group travellers who want to allocate budgets for specific expenses.

With such a wide variety of payment options, Hong Kong ensures that every visitor finds a method that suits their needs. By understanding these options, travellers can focus on enjoying Hong Kong's vibrant attractions without worrying about transactional barriers.

Ready to navigate your financial journey in Hong Kong? Check out our guide on "Getting Your Tax Refund in Hong Kong" for helpful tips and insights that will enhance your experience! Let’s prepare your next trip, book your flights now via Traveloka, along with the accommodations, and find tourist experience all at once via Traveloka for a seamless, hassle-free travel experience!