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Macau and Hengqin

Hello, I have around 11 hours of layover at Hong Kong airport and I want to visit Hengqin China. How crowded is the Macau - Hengqin border? I understand there is a new subway line that connects Cotai and Hengqin. What is the best way to cross over to Hengqin port? A pedestrian crossing, subway or catching a taxi?

I am visiting a gaming venue near Tianyu Avenue, which is approximately 10 kilometers away from Cotai strip.

With an 11-hour layover at Hong Kong airport, visiting Hengqin from Macau is possible but requires careful timing and planning. Here's a detailed guide to help you:

1. Travel from Hong Kong Airport to Macau:

  • The most common options are the Airport Express to Hong Kong station followed by the TurboJET ferry to Macau, or taking a direct shuttle bus from the airport to Macau (about 1 hour 15 minutes to Cotai).
  • Keep in mind immigration clearance times at both Hong Kong and Macau, which can take 30–60 minutes each.

2. Macau to Hengqin Border:

  • The Macau-Hengqin border can be moderately busy, especially during weekends or holidays. Normal processing times for immigration are 15–30 minutes on average.
  • There are two main border crossings: the Lotus Bridge (road border) and the Gongbei Port (main pedestrian and subway crossing via the new Hengqin railway).
  • The new Macau Light Rapid Transit (LRT) and Hengqin railway connect Cotai to Hengqin, but depending on your destination, you might need a short taxi from the Hengqin station to Tianyu Avenue.

3. Best way to cross to Hengqin:

  • Pedestrian crossing: Convenient if you are already in Cotai; short walk to border, fast immigration processing for those on foot.
  • Subway / LRT: New lines connect Cotai and Hengqin; it is reliable, avoids traffic, and is efficient for reaching the central Hengqin area. However, last-mile transport may still require a short taxi.
  • Taxi: Direct and flexible, especially if you have luggage or are visiting specific venues. Can take 20–30 minutes depending on traffic and border wait times. Slightly more expensive but convenient for groups.

4. Recommendation for your trip:

  • From Cotai, the fastest way to reach Tianyu Avenue is likely taking a taxi after crossing the border (either by pedestrian or LRT). This avoids multiple transfers and saves time, particularly important with an 11-hour layover.
  • Allow at least 4–5 hours for the round trip including border crossings, travel to Hengqin, and return to Macau for your flight connection.

In summary, pedestrian crossing or the subway can be efficient if you prefer structured public transport, but taking a taxi after the border is generally the fastest and most flexible for reaching your destination on Hengqin from Cotai.

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