Do Cars in Hong Kong Drive on the Left or Right?
3 Answers
Due to historical reasons, Hong Kong follows left-hand traffic rules, while mainland China follows right-hand traffic. Below is a detailed explanation of why Hong Kong drives on the left: 1. Historical Origins: People used to mount horses with their left foot first, stepping onto the stirrup before swinging their right leg over, naturally positioning themselves on the left side of the road. Additionally, knights often engaged in duels for honor or love, wielding weapons in their right hand and holding shields and reins in their left. To strike opponents effectively, they naturally rode on the left. 2. Historical Context: Hong Kong follows left-hand traffic rules, while mainland China follows right-hand traffic. Thus, after Hong Kong's return to China in 1997, the "one country, two systems" principle was applied to road traffic regulations. Mainland vehicles entering Hong Kong must follow left-hand driving rules, while Hong Kong vehicles entering the mainland must adapt to right-hand driving.
The driving direction in Hong Kong is quite interesting, completely opposite to that of the mainland, with vehicles driving on the left. This rule has been in place since the British colonial era and hasn't changed for over a hundred years, not even after the handover. The steering wheels are on the right, and road signs and traffic lights are also designed for left-side driving. For mainland tourists, it might take some getting used to at first—remember to look right first, then left when crossing the street, or it can be very dangerous. Additionally, Hong Kong has extremely heavy traffic and narrow roads, so left-side driving helps maintain order. Most cars here are imported from Japan and the UK, all right-hand drive, which matches the left-side driving. I think this rule, though unique, has become a characteristic of Hong Kong and is unlikely to change in the near future.
I had a particularly memorable experience driving in Hong Kong. Not only is the steering wheel on the right side, but the driving direction is also left-hand traffic, completely opposite to mainland China. Hong Kong has maintained this system for a long time, primarily due to historical reasons, but it also suits local road conditions. Hong Kong's roads have many curves and steep slopes, and left-hand traffic gives drivers in the right seat better visibility. As a driver, you have to be especially careful with angles when turning at roundabouts or intersections. Pedestrians also need to pay attention, as vehicles approach from the left front when the pedestrian light is green, the opposite of mainland China. Additionally, Hong Kong imposes heavy fines for driving on the wrong side of the road, as it concerns public safety. I think this system has been running very smoothly, and although mainland drivers need an adaptation period, driving in Hong Kong is quite smooth.
