Shower Facilities At Hong Kong Airport
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If you’re flying through Asia, chances are your itinerary will include a layover at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). It’s one of the busiest airports in the world and a common transit hub for travellers heading to Japan, Australia, Southeast Asia (especially Bali), or even Europe.
I recently had a layover here, just a few hours before a 5-hour flight to Bali. There is so much to like about this airport. It’s efficient, and the people who work there are really nice.
One time I even forgot my suitcase at security, came back 30 minutes later, they gave me the suitcase smiling and encouraged me to run fast to my gate! The other point I mention is efficiency. This airport is super easy to navigate with actual clear signs, and that’s how I found a rare gem – FREE SHOWERS!
The free showers are fantastic, but if you have a long layover, I’d honestly consider paying for a lounge. There’s something incredibly satisfying about taking a hot shower, grabbing a proper meal and relaxing in a comfortable chair instead of wandering around the terminal for hours.
Let’s get straight to it.
✈️ Get Ready for Your Layover:
Before we dive in, make sure to download my FREE Layover Packing Checklist. You will know EXACTLY what to pack for the most comfortable layover!
How To Shower For Free at Hong Kong Airport?
Easy! Take your towel and head to the showers! The free public showers are available at Terminal 1, airside (after security). You’ll find them near Gate 12 (West Hall) and Gate 43 (East Hall) on the Arrivals Level (L5).
Each cubicle is pretty spacious, there is a sink, enough space to get changed and a full-functioning shower. Like I always say in other blog posts with free showers (like airports in Dubai or Kuala Lumpur), get comfortable but not too comfortable! It’s very likely there will be people outside waiting for their turn 🙂
What’s included in the free shower:
✔️ Shower stalls
✔️ Shampoo and bath gel
✔️ Hairdryer
What’s not included:
❌ Towels and other items (available from nearby vending machines)
Opening hours: 24/7
Access: Free for all passengers in transit. Nice right?
Want Something More Comfortable? Paid Lounges with Showers
If you’d rather enjoy a private shower and somewhere comfortable to relax before your next flight, Plaza Premium is the lounge I’d recommend. You don’t need to be flying Business or First Class to use it either. Simply book a lounge pass and enjoy shower facilities, complimentary food and drinks, WiFi and comfortable seating while you wait.
Plaza Premium offers two different lounge experiences:
![A buffet counter with a neat display of assorted bread including soft round buns, crusty rolls, and tall breadsticks in glass containers. Metal tongs rest on a white plate beside the bread baskets, and empty napkin-lined bowls are stacked nearby. In the background, a mini bar area with drinks in coolers and a stylish wall design is visible. [Blog post: Shower Facilities At Hong Kong Airport]](https://thegoodobserverblog.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/WhatsApp-Image-2025-05-15-at-10.40.41_94342b85-530x530.jpg)
The Plaza Premium Lounge
This is the standard Plaza Premium experience and, honestly, it’s the option I’d recommend to most travellers. It includes shower facilities, buffet meals, drinks, comfortable seating and WiFi, making it a great place to freshen up and recharge during your layover.
Best for: A comfortable layover.
Locations: Gate 1, Gate 35 and Gate 60
Access: 3 or 6 hours
Price: From $64
Plaza Premium First
If you’d like to make your layover feel a little more special, Plaza Premium First is the upgraded experience. Along with shower facilities, you’ll enjoy à la carte dining, free-flow alcoholic drinks, a welcome cocktail and access to Primo, an exclusive dining area with table service.
Best for: A luxury layover.
Location: Gate 1
Access: 3 or 6 hours
Price: From $96
Additional Lounge Options with Priority Pass at HKIA
If you’re a member of Priority Pass, you can enjoy access to two additional lounges at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA). These are Kyra Lounge and Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club (both at Terminal 1); however, they don’t provide any shower services!
So in this case, you would have to reserve the Plaza Premium Lounge anyway through either Priority Pass or GetYourGuide.com.
If you are flying Business or first class, some companies would provide free access to the lounges, make sure to check more details on the official airport site.
Closest Hotels to Hong Kong Airport
If you have an overnight layover or early flight, staying near the airport can be a practical choice. You can shower, nap and get your senses back! Here are a few options:
➡️ The Regal Airport Hotel is directly connected to the terminal and offers day-use rooms!
Nearby, SkyCity Marriott and Novotel Citygate in Tung Chung are also popular, with free shuttle services and access to local shops.
![Left image: A cozy hotel room with a neatly made bed in crisp white linens, facing a wooden slatted wall that partially opens to reveal a warmly lit modern bathroom. Right image: A woman relaxes in a rooftop pool overlooking a harbor and city skyline, with mountains and fluffy clouds in the distance under a bright blue sky. [Blog post: shower facilities at Hong Kong airport]](https://thegoodobserverblog.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Jen-hotel.png)
I personally stayed at the JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La, it was 30 minutes away from the airport, but it was worth it. I was able to walk to the most popular places in Hong Kong. This hotel comes with a beautiful pool too, and a gym.
➡️ Check availability for the JEN Hong Kong by Shangri-La
How to Get from the Airport to the City Centre
Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is very well connected to the city centre, so you have quite a few options. However, I honestly booked a driver because I knew I was going to be exhausted after a 13-hour flight from Heathrow Airport! My ankles were pretty swollen too, so I just wanted to get to my hotel room and put my feet up! But I listed all your options here below:
🚄 Airport Express (Fast & Convenient)
The Airport Express is the quickest way to reach the city centre. Trains run every 10 minutes and take just 24 minutes to reach Hong Kong Station in Central. It’s efficient, clean, and well-signposted, making it ideal for travellers in a hurry.
➡️Get Your Train Tickets On Klook.com
🚌 Public Buses (Budget-Friendly)
For a more affordable option, take a public bus like the A11 or E21, which will take you to different parts of the city, including Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui. You can book tickets for these buses through 12Go, which provides budget-friendly transport options and helps you secure a spot in advance.
🚖 Taxis (Door-to-Door Service)
Taxis are available at the airport 24/7 and offer a direct, door-to-door service to various areas of Hong Kong. While slightly more expensive, they are a convenient choice, especially if you have heavy luggage or are travelling with others. You can easily book a taxi via Klook for a smooth, reliable experience without worrying about the line at the airport.
➡️ Reserve Your Taxi In Advance Here
🚗 Car Hire (Self-Drive Option)
If you prefer the flexibility of driving yourself, consider renting a car. Use RentalCars to easily compare prices and book a vehicle that suits your needs. Whether you’re staying in the city or planning day trips, having a car can provide extra convenience.
➡️ Check Out Car Rental Prices
Layover in Hong Kong: What to Do in the City Centre
If your layover in Hong Kong lasts more than six hours, it’s worth heading into the city for a quick adventure. You can take the Airport Express and be in Central in just 24 minutes.
Here are a few suggestions on what to do:
➡️ Go for a walk at Victoria Harbour. It’s really nice, and you can catch a cool sunset here too!
➡️ Get the Peak Tram! It’s a must in Hong Kong. It’s very suggestive!
➡️ Visit the Man Mo Temple (picture above). It’s fantastic and not touristy at all!
![A smiling woman in a bright pink dress sits on a cloud-shaped seat beneath a pastel rainbow arch inside Sky100, an observation deck in Hong Kong. Behind her, floor-to-ceiling windows reveal a stunning sunset over Victoria Harbour, with scattered ships and distant mountains silhouetted against the sky. [Blog post: Shower Facilities At Hong Kong Airport]](https://thegoodobserverblog.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PXL_20240709_111148527-EDIT-1-530x530.jpg)
Where to Leave Luggage While Exploring Hong Kong
Lugging your suitcase around the city isn’t ideal. Fortunately, Hong Kong International Airport has luggage storage facilities in Terminal 1, near Arrival Hall A. If you’re heading into the city, you’ll find luggage lockers around Kowloon Park.
Are There Water Fountains at Hong Kong Airport?
Yes, Hong Kong International Airport has filtered water fountains throughout the terminals. You’ll find them near most washrooms in both Departures and Arrivals. They’re clearly marked and designed for refilling bottles, so bring your own reusable one to avoid buying plastic.
FAQs On Hong Kong Airport
Hong Kong International Airport is one of Asia’s busiest hubs. While it’s well-organised, expect longer wait times during peak hours—typically late evenings and mornings. Immigration and security are efficient but can still get crowded.
Technically, tap water in Hong Kong meets WHO safety standards. However, many locals and hotels still prefer bottled or boiled water, especially in older buildings. It’s safest to use bottled water for drinking, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. I honestly used a bottle of water which was provided by the accommodation, and they would refill it every day for me!
With 13 hours, you can relax in a lounge, get a massage, take a shower, or head into the city—Central is just 24 minutes away by Airport Express. Inside the terminal, there are restaurants, shops, a movie area, and rest zones to keep you occupied.
Yes, airlines like Cathay Pacific offer showers in their business and first-class lounges, including The Pier and The Wing. These are exclusive to premium passengers and offer towels, toiletries, and a quiet space to refresh.
Final tips
Keep an eye on the time! Hong Kong International Airport is efficient, but security and immigration can take longer during peak hours. Always aim to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next flight. If you’re planning to leave the terminal, make sure your passport allows visa-free entry or get a transit visa in advance.
Need help deciding what to bring? Download my free layover packing list to make sure you’ve got all the essentials, from a neck pillow to power banks and eye drops!
Ciao for now,
Silvia x
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✈️ Where can I book my flight?
Skyscanner is definitely the best one out there! I love their “explore everywhere” function for when I need inspiration on where to go next! If you will embark into a long flight and you love showering in between flights or just using the lounges in airports all over the world, check out Lounge Passes on Klook, GetYourGuide or get a lounge membership on Priority Pass!
🚕 How can I book my taxi in advance from the airport to my accommodation?
I always recommend reserving your taxi in advance via Klook.com. This is because it will ask you for flight details and the driver will be able to track your flight in real time. I would book my taxi especially when I fly to new places or get there at night time! If you want to rent a car instead, use DiscoverCars, they have cars available to pick up right at the airport!
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