Starting in September, Hong Kong Airport is offering free guided tours for transit passengers with layovers of 7 hours or more. The tours explore Hong Kong's culture and famous landmarks.
According to Airport Authority CEO Vivian Cheung Kar-fay, the program, in partnership with Trip.com, aims to increase the number of transit passengers in Hong Kong.
"We aim to attract more passengers to choose Hong Kong as a transit point and reinforce Hong Kong's position as a leading international aviation hub," she said.
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Tourists visit the Kowloon Peninsula in Hong Kong. Photo: SCMP |
Tourists visit the Kowloon Peninsula in Hong Kong. Photo: SCMP
The free tours run daily, accommodating 20 people per tour. They are designed to offer passengers a taste of Hong Kong's unique character in four hours.
The "Heritage and Local Lifestyle Citywalk" tour includes visits to Wong Tai Sin Temple and the Sham Shui Po market. The "Victoria and West Kowloon Waterfront Journey" provides an evening experience with city views. Starting in December, the "Serenity and Stories: A Harmony Journey" will showcase the Lantau countryside.
Tour schedules align with peak transit times and include complimentary round-trip transportation. Eligible passengers can book online up to 3 months in advance or register at the airport tour counter. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Chapman Fong Shui-man, Airport Development Director, hopes the tours will entice passengers and encourage them to promote Hong Kong. "I hope this experience will lead passengers to choose Hong Kong for their next transit and revitalize Hong Kong's economy," he said.
As a global aviation hub, Hong Kong attracts 5.5 million transit passengers annually, with about 30% having layovers exceeding 7 hours. Fong stated that this tour service is just the beginning. The organizers hope to expand the program by collaborating with airlines and retailers to offer discounts to tour participants, as well as incorporating shopping, dining, and wellness activities.
Tam Anh (SCMP)
