Octopus for Tourists

I’d heard previous versions of this app didn’t work well, so I was planning to buy a physical Octopus card in Hong Kong. But when I arrived at West Kowloon at 10:30 pm and the only kiosk for tourists wasn’t taking credit cards, I sure was glad that I had downloaded this app just in case! It was so easy to use for transportation and purchases, and I was able to top up in seconds from anywhere. I was even asked if I was a HK resident because I was able to top up and pay just like a local! After my trip, I got the balance refunded in just two days without any trouble. I’m very glad that I used the app instead of the physical card.

I’m from the US and landed in HK without realizing I needed an octopus card to get around smoothly. I downloaded the app, connected my credit card, added some HKD to start off, and it worked seamlessly throughout my entire trip. It was so convenient to have in my wallet. It provides the same 50 HKD refundable deposit when you first top/load the card as would the physical card. I had to add more money/top off the card multiple cards throughout the trip and it was easy. Definitely recommend everyone to use instead of having to visit a counter or talk to someone. Easy process!

It’s outrageous that those without a HK issued credit or debit card are forced into using this app that forces you to use their unfavourable exchange rate to pay, rather than charging in HKD. Why not just let everyone use the Octopus app and top ups via Apple wallet. The system foisted on us by this app obscures fees. I can top up my Suica or Pasmo in Japan in Yen via Apple Wallet. Octopus makes me download an app and pay using their exchange rate in-app. You can also only select one currency to pay in per card - changing it requires you to cancel your current Octopus entirely, ask for a refund of the remaining balance and then re-register a new card. Madness! While cash top ups at machines still work this defeats the convenience of having an online system. Really disappointing.