HONG KONG – The Hainan Free Trade Port Tourism and Culture (Hong Kong) Series Promotion Events, running from September 7 to 11 at Hong Kong’s K11 Art Mall, are poised to mark a new milestone in regional tourism cooperation. The initiative underscores China’s growing commitment to integrated travel experiences, inviting visitors from Hong Kong and beyond to explore the synergy between the Pearl of the Orient and Sunshine Hainan.
Hong Kong, with its extensive global flight network and role as a premier gateway for international travelers, welcomes tens of millions of tourists annually. Just across the strait, Hainan stands as one of China’s most sought-after destinations, known for its tropical landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage. Their geographical proximity, cultural affinities, and strong business links form a natural foundation for collaboration.
Recent years have seen robust growth in exchanges between the two regions. In April, tourism associations from both Hainan and Hong Kong signed a strategic agreement to jointly create “one-trip, multiple-stops” itineraries. These aim to deliver complementary, high-end travel experiences that enrich journeys for global visitors. Data from Hainan’s Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports reveals that from January to July this year, over 85,000 tourists arrived in Hainan from Hong Kong, a 28.8% increase year-on-year.
Central to this cooperation is Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector,” bridging global visitors with Hainan. Enhanced air connectivity, including increased flights between Hong Kong and Haikou or Sanya, has effectively created a “one-hour tourism circle” for international travelers.
The promotion event at K11 Art Mall promises a vivid showcase of Hainan’s cultural and tourism offerings through formats that combine imaging, intangible heritage, gastronomy, and performance. Over 80 curated photographs will present the island’s dynamic landscapes and communities, while nearly 200 exhibits will spotlight intangible cultural heritage treasures such as Li brocade, Miao embroidery, coconut carvings, and bamboo weaving. Audiences can also immerse themselves in over 10 interactive activities, ranging from martial arts and folk performances to artistic nail art, highlighting the innovative reinterpretation of traditional culture.
In addition, Hainan’s visa-free entry for citizens of 86 countries, alongside its 144-hour visa-free access for tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao and 240-hour transit visa exemption, underscores its commitment to facilitating international travel. These favorable policies lay the groundwork for deeper cultural, sporting, and creative collaborations.
“We are actively collaborating with major Hong Kong enterprises to develop international performances, art exhibitions, cultural tourism, and broadcasting and film projects. Additionally, we are promoting exchanges in more than nine sports events including martial arts, dragon boat racing, and golf.” said Wang Yuechuan, Director of the International and Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Market Promotion Office of Hainan’s Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports.
With Hainan and Hong Kong continuing to align their strengths, the integration of cultural and tourism resources signals a promising chapter for the region’s international positioning and the enrichment of visitor experiences.
