Do cars in Hong Kong drive on the left or right?
3 Answers
In Hong Kong, vehicles must drive on the left side. Below are relevant introductions about driving motor vehicles: 1. Precautions: Never brake suddenly during a tire blowout. Try to maintain the vehicle's straight-line movement as much as possible. Allow the vehicle sufficient speed to regain control, then gently lift your foot off the accelerator, steer slightly toward the side of the blown tire, and eventually the deflated tire will gradually bring the car to a stop. Handbrakes can fail if unused for long periods. The handbrake uses steel cables to stop the vehicle, but these cables are prone to rust and corrosion, especially if left unused for extended periods, which can lead to handbrake failure. 2. Techniques: Turn on headlights during traffic jams. Research shows that using headlights can reduce the probability of accidents by 32%.
As an experienced driver who has driven in multiple places across Asia, what I found most unforgettable about my first time driving in Hong Kong was the left-hand traffic custom. It originated from British colonial history and continued after the handover, with the steering wheel on the right and driving on the left—it took some getting used to initially. For example, when I drove over from Shenzhen, I instinctively turned right at a bend and nearly hit a railing, but thankfully the rearview mirror alerted me. Now, after more experience, I find left-hand driving quite good: Hong Kong's roads are narrow with many pedestrians, and driving on the left provides better visibility and reduces chaos, especially in busy areas like Central. Unlike mainland China's right-hand traffic, drivers need to pay attention to the habit shift. I recommend newcomers start practicing on smaller roads with navigation assistance—it only takes a few days to get the hang of it. Overall, this rule ensures orderly traffic and makes self-driving trips safer and smoother. Don’t worry; persistence makes it feel natural.
During my backpacking trip to Hong Kong, I rented a car to explore the city. Wow, as soon as I hit the road, I realized I had to drive on the left side, completely opposite to my hometown! The car had a right-hand drive, making turns particularly awkward, and I nearly made a mistake near Victoria Peak. But the locals were very friendly, and you get used to it; the left-hand system reduces friction during traffic jams and allows pedestrians to cross the road safely. I recommend tourists first take public transport to enjoy the scenery and familiarize themselves with the routes before attempting to drive. Pay extra attention to road signs and pedestrian movements—Hong Kong streets are bustling with crowds, making it easy to get distracted. Prepare a map or download a traffic app; it will make things much easier. Safety first—don’t rush to visit attractions at the risk of danger. Driving slowly also allows you to enjoy the beautiful views of Victoria Harbour.
