As a place of cultural exchange between China and the West, Hong Kong has its own unique culture and customs that are worth studying and preparing for those who are preparing to immigrate and study in Hong Kong. Regarding the basic common sense about Hong Kong, we have summarized the following common sense. Let’s take a look. How much do you not know? Come with me to find out the must-know tips for immigrating to Hong Kong.

Language and Culture

Both Chinese and English are the official languages ??of Hong Kong. English is widely used in government agencies, the legal profession, professionals and the business community, and Cantonese is the main way of daily personal communication among Hong Kong citizens. But don’t worry because you don’t understand Cantonese, because most of the waiters in restaurants, shops and hotels in tourist areas can speak Mandarin. In addition, in recent years, the SAR government has strengthened Putonghua education in primary and secondary schools and the economic and trade boom between China and Hong Kong has led to many people being able to communicate in Putonghua. Mainstream religions in Hong Kong include Buddhism, Catholicism, Christianity, Taoism, Islam, and Confucianism. Due to the influence of Confucianism, ancestor worship is very common.

Currency

The main currency in Hong Kong is the "Hong Kong dollar". Generally, stores only accept payment in Hong Kong dollars or credit cards, but some Hong Kong retail stores and convenience stores also accept payment in RMB. RMB, foreign currencies and traveler's checks can be exchanged at banks, money changers and hotels. It is generally better to exchange at banks or money changers. In addition to paying attention to the exchange rate when exchanging, some banks or exchange shops charge service fees, so it is best to ask before exchanging.

Tourists with RMB cards with the "UnionPay" logo issued by domestic banks can withdraw Hong Kong dollar cash at more than a thousand JETCO ATMs in Hong Kong with the "UnionPay" logo. Such withdrawals comply with the regulations of the People's Bank of China, and the maximum daily withdrawal amount is limited to no more than RMB 5,000 (equivalent in Hong Kong dollars).

Office and banking hours

The office hours of most offices are from 9 am to 5 pm from Monday to Friday, and from 9 am to 1 pm on Saturday. The opening hours of major banks are 9 am to 4:30 pm from Monday to Friday, and 9 am to 12:30 pm on Saturday. Banking services are also available at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Time difference

Hong Kong’s time zone is the same as Beijing’s, and everyone is in the GMT 8:00 time zone.

Tip

Most Hong Kong restaurants and eateries will charge a 10-item (service charge) on the bill, but most fast food restaurants and tea restaurants will not charge a service charge. . In addition, when visiting a Chinese restaurant (restaurant or restaurant), the waiter often brings mustard sauce, sauerkraut, peanut plates and tea before the meal. Such "tea and mustard fees" may be charged based on the number of people per table. During the Lunar New Year, some restaurants will also increase their service charges. Therefore, please check with the waiter before sitting down. There are no regulations on the small accounts of hotel waiters and taxi drivers. Passengers can give them according to the quality of service.

Citcom Telephone

Hong Kong mobile communication network can support GSM900, PCS1800 and CDMA systems. When visiting Hong Kong, you can easily use your domestic mobile phone!

Transportation

Hong Kong has a complete transportation system. No matter where tourists stay, they can reach all directions without any problems. .

When taking the subway, the most convenient thing is to buy an Octopus, which is smooth on all lines. Moreover, the function of Octopus in Hong Kong is not just a ticket. There are many convenience stores that can be used as a "card" to "swipe", which is convenient at the same time. You can also recharge at the store. However, the subway in Hong Kong is relatively expensive. It will cost you more than ten yuan in a few stops, so it is best to stock up on "ammunition".

Take the elevator

When taking the elevator, please stand to the right. There is a "passing lane" on the left, which is convenient for people who are in a hurry to pass quickly.

No Smoking

Hong Kong prohibits smoking in public transportation, markets and some public places, so do not smoke in the subway.

Visa

Hold a valid passport of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, a return permit, a seaman's identity card and a Hong Kong passport containing a valid return visa or visa exemption endorsement Chinese citizens who have a Certificate of Identity (DI) and a travel document stamped with the endorsement of the Hong Kong Immigration Department are exempted from an entry permit when returning to Hong Kong to go to the Hong Kong SAR. Chinese citizens holding a valid passport of the People's Republic of China and a connecting air ticket are exempted from the entry permit when passing through the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region from overseas and staying for no more than 7 days. Tourists traveling to Hong Kong must provide the following materials:

1. A valid passport or other travel documents;

2. An application form must be filled in in Chinese or English and be completed item by item. The signature and handwriting must be clear and legible;

3. A recent two-inch frontal photo without a hat;

4. If necessary, other relevant information must be submitted.

Voltage

The voltage used in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC, and most power plugs and sockets are three-hole flat type. Many high-end hotel bathrooms are equipped with transformer power sockets for shaving and hair drying.

Safety

Hong Kong has good security and the police force responsible for maintaining security in Hong Kong is highly efficient, making Hong Kong one of the safest cities in the world. The police are patrolling the city day and night to provide assistance to citizens and tourists.

Immigration and Exit Instructions

Hong Kong is a famous duty-free port. Except for cigarettes, alcohol products and other products that are subject to higher import taxes, other items are generally tax-free or only levied with very low import taxes. Non-Hong Kong tourists who bring tobacco and alcohol into the country are still subject to some restrictions: they can only bring 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 250 grams of tobacco, and 1 kilogram of bottles of alcohol. The import and export of ivory raw materials or products in Hong Kong are strictly controlled by law.