Practical A–Z

German Citizens

Germans can enter Hong Kong visa-free for 90 days. You need:

• Passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your stay (ID card is NOT sufficient).
• Return or onward flight ticket may be required.
• Arrival Card: Filled out on the plane or electronically in advance.

Important: Hong Kong is NOT China. A stay in Hong Kong does not entitle you to enter mainland China (you need a separate China visa for that). Conversely: A China visa does not entitle you to enter Hong Kong.

Payment

Hong Kong is a mix of cash and cashless. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and malls. However: Cha Chaan Tengs, street stalls, night markets, and small shops are often cash only. ATMs are everywhere — HSBC and Hang Seng offer the best exchange rates. The Octopus Card replaces cash in many situations.

Tipping

In Hong Kong, tipping is not mandatory, but appreciated. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often automatically added — no further tip is needed then. Without a service charge: 10% is appropriate. In Cha Chaan Tengs and hawker stalls: no tip. Taxi: round up to the next dollar.

Hong Kong is a very safe city — one of the safest metropolises in the world. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and you can move safely at almost any time of day or night.

What to Watch Out For

• Pickpocketing: Occurs occasionally, especially in Mong Kok, at the Temple Street Night Market, and in crowded MTR trains. Normal caution is sufficient — carry valuables in front, keep an eye on your backpack.
• Scams: In Chungking Mansions (TST) and tourist areas, overpriced electronics offers or "gemstone scams" (fake gemstone shops) can occur. Do not respond to street solicitations.
• Typhoons: During typhoon signal 8 (T8) or higher: stay indoors! The MTR shuts down, shops close, and flying debris is a real danger. The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) issues timely warnings — install the app.
• Heat: In summer (June–September), there is a risk of sunstroke and dehydration. Drink plenty, take air-conditioned breaks, start hikes early in the morning.
• Air conditioning shock: The temperature difference between outside (33°C) and inside (18°C) can strain the circulatory system. A light jacket for indoor spaces is essential.

Emergency number: 999 (police, fire department, ambulance). The police in Hong Kong are professional and helpful towards tourists.

Year-round

• Light jacket / cardigan: For the ice-cold air-conditioned interiors — sounds crazy, but it's the most important item in your luggage. The air conditioning in Hong Kong is legendary aggressive (18–20°C in malls, MTR, restaurants).
• Comfortable shoes: Hong Kong is hilly — many stairs, steep streets, long walks. Sneakers or comfortable running shoes. No heels!
• Umbrella: Tropical downpours come without warning — a folding umbrella in your bag is a must. In summer: daily afternoon showers.
• Adapter Type G: British plug (as in Singapore and the UK). Bring an adapter or borrow one at the hotel reception.
• Small shoulder bag: For Octopus Card, phone, cash. Backpacks are impractical in the crowded MTR.

Summer (June–September)

• Light, breathable clothing: Cotton or functional fabric. The humidity makes everything stick to you.
• Sunscreen & hat: The subtropical sun is intense, especially on the water and on hikes.
• Insect repellent: For hikes and island visits (mosquitoes in the country parks).

Winter (December–February)

• Warm layer: Sweater or fleece — Hong Kong's winter is mild (14–20°C), but the wind from the harbor can be cold. A light down jacket is sufficient for the coldest days.
• Scarf: For windy waterfront walks and Victoria Peak (it's always cooler at the top).