Is Hong Kong Safe in January 2026?

Some guesthouses and currency exchange booths in Chungking Mansions quote one price verbally but charge a different higher amount at payment, banking on tourists being too uncomfortable in the busy, labyrinthine environment to dispute it. Currency exchange desks advertise attractive rates but add hidden service fees that only appear on the receipt.

How to avoid: For currency exchange, always ask for the final all-in amount you will receive in local currency before handing over any money. Get the rate and fee confirmed in writing. For accommodation, read reviews carefully and confirm room rates via email before arrival.

Camera and electronics shops in Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok advertise very low prices on cameras and phones. Once tourists commit to buy, they are switched to inferior models, charged for accessories they did not request, or hit with excessive "warranty" fees.

How to avoid: Buy electronics only from authorized dealers or reputable chain stores (Broadway, Fortress). Get every item and its price listed on the receipt before paying. Verify the model number matches what was advertised.

Electronics and camera shops in Tsim Sha Tsui advertise DSLR cameras and lenses at prices below market rate. When a tourist tries to purchase the item, staff claim the advertised model is sold out and aggressively push a more expensive bundle with unwanted accessories. Some shops have locked doors and refused to let customers leave until they agree to a purchase.

How to avoid: Research specific model prices on major online retailers before visiting. If an advertised product is unavailable, leave immediately. Reputable electronics chains like Broadway and Fortress have transparent pricing and are far safer options.

Some taxi drivers at Hong Kong International Airport refuse tourists whose destination is inconvenient or short, which is illegal. Others quote flat rates to Kowloon or Hong Kong Island that exceed the metered plus tunnel toll fare, targeting tourists unfamiliar with legitimate pricing.

How to avoid: All HK taxis must use the meter. Report any driver who refuses a fare or quotes a non-metered price to the Transport Complaints Unit. The Airport Express train is a faster and cheaper alternative to most central destinations.

Markets in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po sell counterfeit designer handbags, watches, and clothing. While quality varies, items are sold as "genuine" at significant prices. Importing fakes back home can result in confiscation.

How to avoid: Assume any branded item at a market for under market price is fake. Never buy luxury goods from market stalls or street vendors. Be aware that importing counterfeits carries legal risk in most countries.