According to the latest data from the Wisers Tourism Index, the number of inbound tourists to Hong Kong in April 2025 is expected to significantly increase due to the hosting of popular sporting events and the rising buzz around tourism facilities.
The Kai Tak Sports Park officially opened on March 1, with a star-studded lineup of guests including celebrities such as Donnie Yen, Andy Lau, Joey Yung, George Lam, Sally Yeh, Li Yuchun, Zhang Jie, as well as athletes Vivian Kong and Fan Zhendong. On mainland media platforms, many netizens shared their experiences attending the opening ceremony, praising the smooth entry arrangements, the lively atmosphere, and the opportunity for “zero-distance contact” with athletes.
With the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, discussions about the surrounding dining and entertainment options have also gained traction on mainland media platforms. Some netizens have shared their experiences exploring restaurants near the sports park, highlighting the panoramic views of the main stadium and the variety of unique culinary offerings. This has sparked online discussions, with some even creating a “food map” of Kai Tak, introducing several renowned restaurants in Kowloon City, just a ten-minute walk away. They noted that Kowloon City is not only conveniently located but also known as “Little Thailand,” offering a warm and welcoming community atmosphere. Many netizens strongly recommend visitors to Kai Tak also take the time to explore Kowloon City, with some humorously remarking, “If you visit Kai Tak without going to Kowloon City, you’re making a big mistake!”
Additionally, with international stars such as the British band Coldplay confirmed to perform at Kai Tak, some netizens have shared detailed guides for attending concerts at the venue. These guides cover everything from transportation routes and nearby shopping malls to photo spots and late-night dining options. Some netizens have even commented that Kai Tak “doesn’t feel like an overpriced tourist area” and that “the most authentic local life in Hong Kong can be experienced here.” This suggests that Kai Tak not only boasts world-class facilities but also offers a unique charm through its local neighborhood vibe, further driving district tourism development.
In the coming months, Hong Kong will host several major sports events, including the LIV Golf Hong Kong from March 7 to 9 and the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens from March 28 to 30. These events are expected to attract sports fans from around the world, further boosting the number of inbound tourists.
In terms of tourism facilities, there has been a noticeable increase in posts about cross-border coach services between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau, as well as hotel recommendations. This not only reflects the intensified promotional efforts by Hong Kong’s tourism industry but also highlights the growing demand among mainland tourists for services such as private coaches and accommodations. Cross-border coach services provide travelers with more convenient transportation options, making it easier to travel between cities in the Greater Bay Area. Meanwhile, hotel recommendations cater to the diverse needs of different traveler groups, ranging from luxurious five-star hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Overall, the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park, the hosting of major sports events in Hong Kong, and the increased promotion and demand for tourism facilities are expected to collectively drive the growth of inbound tourist numbers in April 2025. With the Hong Kong government’s continued investment in cultural, sports, and tourism resources and its ongoing promotional efforts, the city’s appeal as a tourist destination will continue to rise, attracting more visitors to experience its unique charm.
