Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing announced today that nine projects will be implemented by the Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots with the aim of bringing economic benefits, boosting consumption sentiment and stimulating the economy.
Mr Cheuk explained at a press conference this afternoon that new travel patterns and tourists’ preferences increasingly value hotspots with unique features that are part of the flavour of Hong Kong.
He pointed out that as there are many treasured tourist attractions in Hong Kong, the Government considers that in addition to creating new hotspots, current tourism resources should be consolidated and enriched to maximise the value of such hotspots and create attractions that tourists cannot miss.
Hong Kong Industrial Brand Tourism is one of the projects to be implemented. Given that Hong Kong’s industrial story fully embodies the spirit of the Lion Rock, the tourism industry is forming groups to develop “Made in Hong Kong” industrial tourism, creating hotspots for visitors to tour, experience and shop.
Industrial brands that can be visited include Lee Kum Kee, Kee Wah, Pat Chun and Yakult. A trial launch is expected in the third quarter.
Meanwhile, a Victoria Park Bazaar will be implemented in the fourth quarter. Some 30 stalls with themed activities will be set up at Victoria Park on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Another project calls for creating a Pink Trumpet Tree Garden, with pink trumpet trees and bougainvillea extensively planted near the habourfront of Tamar Park to create a colourful viewing area that brings synergy with the Central harbourfront. The planting work is expected to be completed by the end of this year.
The working group has also selected two featured communities for in-depth tourism, one in Central and the other in Kowloon City.
In view of the fact that Hong Kong’s disciplinary services enjoy international acclaim among tourists from the Mainland and overseas, disciplinary services pioneer tours will be launched in the second quarter.
The Police Museum, the Correctional Services Museum and the Fire & Ambulance Services Education Centre & Museum will, in collaboration with the tourism sector, develop and launch tourism products.
Moreover, the former Yau Ma Tei Police Station will be partially opened to tourists who can see for themselves the layout and atmosphere of an old police station, which has served as a famous setting for police movies and dramas.
By the fourth quarter, the ground floor will be opened to the public, featuring a replica report room, cellblocks, additional photo booths employing augmented reality technology and more.
The projects selected also cover green tourism – “Four Peaks” Tourism. The four peaks for development include the Peak, Lantau Peak, Sai Kung Hoi and Tai Mo Shan. Considering the popularity of hiking trails, touring across the four selected peaks will be characterised by their unique scenery, easy and short routes, convenient transportation and comfort for travellers.
The remaining project involves revistalising the former Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard Pier. The yard will be developed into a character-filled space for organising different activities so that the public can take pictures and appreciate the panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island. The target opening date will be the first quarter of next year.
Mr Cheuk said that these particular hotspots span across the city, underlining the concept of “tourism is everywhere in Hong Kong”.
The Government will engage the trade proactively, making good use of various resources for marketing and promotions, creating innovative travelling routes and new products for tourist groups.
The Deputy Chief Secretary emphasised that he firmly believes Hong Kong’s tourism industry will attain a new level of prosperity.
