Ling Wu
What's Inside This Guide
I've been guiding travelers across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) for years. And let me tell you—most online guides miss the real headaches. Like how your international credit card might fail at the ticket machine. Or that Google Maps will leave you lost before you even reach the port. Let's fix that.
Here's the honest truth: the shuttle bus (called the "Golden Bus") is your best bet. It's cheap, runs every 5 minutes, and drops you right at the口岸. But there are traps—like buying the wrong ticket or arriving at the wrong terminal. I'll walk you through each method step by step.
1. HZMB Shuttle Bus (Golden Bus): The Cheapest Way
The Golden Bus is the most popular option for tourists. It's officially called the HZMB Shuttle Bus, but everyone calls it the Golden Bus because of the yellow livery. It connects Hong Kong Port, Zhuhai Port, and Macau Port.
Fares are surprisingly affordable: about HK$65 (US$8) one-way. Cash is accepted, but card payments often fail with international cards. I always recommend using Alipay or WeChat Pay—or better yet, buy your ticket on Trip.com or Klook before you go. Just scan the QR code at the terminal.
How to Board the Golden Bus from Hong Kong
First, get to the Hong Kong Port. Take the MTR to Tung Chung Station, then bus B6 (runs every 10 minutes, 15 min ride). Alternatively, take a taxi: about HK$150 from central Hong Kong. Tell the driver "Hong Kong Port of HZMB" — show this in Chinese: 港珠澳大桥香港口岸.
Once at the port, follow signs to the shuttle bus counter. You'll need your passport to buy the ticket. I always tells clients to buy a round-trip ticket if they're returning—it's the same price and saves time.
Boarding is smooth: scan your ticket, walk through immigration (you'll need your passport and possibly a visa), then board. The ride takes about 40 minutes across the bridge. It's scenic but the windows are tinted—photos won't be great. Save your camera for the architectural marvels on shore.
From Zhuhai or Macau to Hong Kong
It's the same process in reverse. At Zhuhai Port, the shuttle bus terminal is connected to the main building. Macau Port is smaller but equally efficient. One thing: if you're crossing from Zhuhai to Hong Kong, you'll go through immigration twice—once leaving China, once entering Hong Kong. Budget an extra 15 minutes for that.
2. Cross-Border Taxi: Fast & Direct
If you're in a group of 4–5 people, the cross-border taxi is a time-saver. These taxis can drive directly across the bridge without switching vehicles. They're available at dedicated stands at Hong Kong Airport, the Hong Kong Port, and major hotels.
Cost: around HK$700–1200 per trip depending on destination. It's expensive but door-to-door. Payment is usually in cash (Hong Kong dollars) or Alipay. Drivers rarely accept credit cards.
How to find one: At the Hong Kong Airport, follow signs to "Cross-boundary Coach" or "Taxi to Mainland." There's a specific counter. Show the driver the address in Chinese. Many drivers speak limited English, so have your hotel or destination written down.
Important: All passengers must go through immigration at the Hong Kong Port before boarding the taxi. The driver waits for you on the other side. This is different from the shuttle bus where you clear immigration after the ride.
3. Driving Yourself: What You Need to Know
Driving your own car across HZMB requires a special permit. Most rental cars in Hong Kong or mainland China don't include cross-border insurance. The permit is expensive (around HK$4000 per year) and you need to apply weeks in advance. This method is not practical for short-term tourists.
However, if you're a resident or have a Chinese friend with a car, here's what you need:
- Valid driving license (Hong Kong license or International Driving Permit)
- Cross-border vehicle permit (buy in advance from the Transport Department)
- Insurance that covers both Hong Kong and mainland China
- Tolls: about HK$150 per trip
My honest advice: Don't bother. The shuttle bus is much simpler. I see too many travelers stuck at the border because their permit wasn't ready.
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