Hong Kong Tourism Soars as National Games Draw Mainland Tourists Seeking Premier Golf, Rugby, and Exclusive City Experiences

Hong Kong’s tourism is experiencing a significant surge as the 2025 National Games draw an influx of mainland Chinese visitors, eager to enjoy not only the excitement of world-class sporting events but also the city’s renowned golf courses, vibrant rugby culture, and exclusive cultural experiences. The National Games, co-hosted by Hong Kong, Guangdong, and Macau, have become a major draw for tourists, particularly those seeking a premium, immersive travel experience. With events like rugby sevens and golf tournaments at Hong Kong’s prestigious courses capturing the attention of affluent mainland travelers, the city is poised to capitalize on its unique blend of sporting excellence and luxury offerings, solidifying its position as a top-tier destination for both leisure and sporting tourism.

This year, Hong Kong is hosting the National Games for the first time in a tripartite arrangement with Guangdong and Macau. Local authorities are anticipating around 100,000 visitors to flock to the city, drawn by a range of exciting events including fencing, track cycling, rugby sevens, golf, triathlon, beach volleyball, men’s handball, and the under-22 men’s basketball tournament. For many mainland visitors, the Games offer an exciting opportunity to witness world-class sports while visiting Hong Kong’s iconic sights and enjoying the city’s world-renowned hospitality.

In response to this surge in visitor interest, local tour operators have created exclusive packages that combine sports events with leisure activities around Hong Kong. These itineraries often include overnight stays at four- to five-star hotels, with scenic views of Victoria Harbour, as well as chartered transport to ensure smooth travel between the games and other destinations. Packages are priced at approximately HK$2,000 (US$257) per person per day, appealing to a wealthier, more mature demographic of mainland Chinese visitors known for their higher spending capacity.

Golf and rugby sevens have been highlighted as the most sought-after events for these tour packages. Golf is especially popular, as the sport has a strong following in mainland China. Additionally, Hong Kong’s prestigious golf courses, known for their quality and prestige, are a major draw for visitors looking for an elite sporting experience. Rugby sevens, on the other hand, attracts a loyal and organized fan base from mainland China, known for their enthusiasm and dedication to the sport. These factors combined make both events highly appealing to mainland tourists who seek not just to watch the games but to immerse themselves in the vibrant fan culture.

Despite the attractive packages, industry insiders predict that most visitors to the Games will choose to travel independently rather than join large tour groups. The reason for this lies in the requirement for spectators to register their names when purchasing tickets, which makes it challenging for travel agencies to organize group tours. As a result, many visitors are expected to handle their travel and ticket arrangements directly, reducing the number of organized tours. However, some private group tours may still be arranged for those who prefer a more guided experience.

The economic impact of the National Games is expected to be felt across several sectors in Hong Kong, especially in food and beverage and hospitality. The influx of visitors will likely boost local businesses, particularly as tourists indulge in the city’s renowned dining scene and purchase souvenirs unique to the Games. Special limited-edition memorabilia is expected to drive higher spending, particularly among visitors keen to take home a piece of the event’s history.

However, some experts are more cautious about the long-term economic benefits. Economist Simon Lee Siu-po noted that, while mega-sporting events like the National Games can provide an economic boost, they require world-class facilities to maximize their potential. Lee pointed out that Hong Kong’s tennis infrastructure, for example, could benefit from upgrades to attract more international events. Furthermore, the high cost of accommodation in the city may discourage some mainland visitors from staying overnight, limiting the potential economic impact of the Games.

To ensure continued economic growth, Lee suggested that Hong Kong diversify its sporting calendar by pursuing additional international events, such as major football matches, to attract a wider range of global visitors. He pointed to the economic success of Macau, which recently hosted the NBA China Games, as a model for Hong Kong to emulate. By attracting more high-profile sports events, Hong Kong could further solidify its position as a key destination for international tourists.

In conclusion, while the National Games represent a significant opportunity for Hong Kong’s tourism industry, the true economic impact will depend on a variety of factors, including infrastructure quality and visitor spending habits. By diversifying its offering and enhancing its facilities, Hong Kong can ensure that it remains a top destination for international sporting events for years to come.

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