As Hong Kong entered 2026, the city experienced a significant rebound in tourism, driven by the success of its sports and entertainment events. Over the past year, Hong Kong has seen a marked increase in visitor numbers, largely thanks to the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP). The momentum from 2025 is expected to continue, making the city a top destination for international travellers in the new year.
Hong Kong’s Tourism Growth in 2025
The year 2025 proved to be a pivotal one for Hong Kong’s tourism sector. The city welcomed a record 50 million visitors, marking a 12% increase year-on-year. Of these visitors, 38 million came from the Chinese Mainland, representing an 11% rise, while 12 million non-mainland visitors marked a 15% increase. The steady flow of visitors, especially during the festive periods such as the New Year Countdown, reinforced Hong Kong’s reputation as one of the top global destinations for international arrivals. According to the Euromonitor International Top 100 City Destinations Index, Hong Kong secured the second spot globally, following only Bangkok.
The New Year Countdown event, which took place in Chater Road, offered a vibrant and fresh experience, with music performances and a stunning light show. The event’s location next to the Winter Wonderland transformed the Statue Square Gardens into a magical Christmas Town that drew crowds and added to the city’s festive atmosphere. This event, along with others, highlighted Hong Kong’s ability to offer unique experiences to visitors year-round.
The Opening of Kai Tak Sports Park: A Game Changer for Hong Kong
A significant driver of tourism and mega events in 2025 was the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP). This new, state-of-the-art facility has rapidly become a hub for major international events, attracting thousands of visitors. KTSP is home to the 50,000-seat Kai Tak Stadium, which was ranked third globally for total ticket sales in 2025, according to Pollstar. The stadium also ranked No. 1 in Asia for gross revenue, earning USD 191.34 million.
The Kai Tak Sports Park has already hosted a variety of events, including major sports tournaments such as the Hong Kong Sevens, as well as concerts by international superstars like Coldplay, Jay Chou, and Mayday. These events have not only contributed to the local economy but also made KTSP an iconic landmark in Hong Kong’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
In addition to the stadium, Kai Tak Arena, a 10,000-seat venue, ranked No. 8 in Asia for revenue generation, further solidifying KTSP’s status as a leading sports and entertainment complex.
Events and Festivals That Keep Hong Kong Thriving
Throughout 2025, Hong Kong hosted an array of world-class events, further enhancing its position as a global events hub. With the continued success of KTSP, Hong Kong attracted visitors for various mega events, including the Hong Kong Football Festival, where top teams like Liverpool, AC Milan, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur played in front of packed crowds.
Looking ahead to 2026, KTSP will continue to host top-tier events, with BLACKPINK scheduled for a major concert. The stadium’s ability to host large-scale events makes it a key draw for global tourists, providing a seamless experience for both sports fans and entertainment seekers.
Additionally, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has capitalised on this surge in visitors, developing a diverse range of events aimed at creating positive energy and fostering connections within the community. This includes performances, art exhibitions, and cultural celebrations designed to engage both locals and tourists.
The Future of Hong Kong’s Tourism and Events Economy
As 2026 unfolds, the outlook for Hong Kong’s tourism and events economy remains highly promising. With the successful integration of sports and entertainment, the city is positioned to continue attracting global visitors for both leisure and business. The Kai Tak Sports Park will remain a key player in driving international tourism, while Hong Kong’s vibrant cultural scene, including the Chinese New Year celebrations, will keep the city on the map as a top-tier destination for travellers seeking unique experiences.
The continuous growth in both mainland and international tourism indicates that Hong Kong is entering a new era of cultural exchange and global recognition, bolstered by world-class infrastructure and an ever-expanding calendar of events.
For visitors looking to experience a city that offers both modern entertainment and rich cultural experiences, Hong Kong remains a top destination, combining innovative sports and entertainment with a welcoming atmosphere for tourists from all over the world.
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