Published on
September 6, 2025
Hainan Free Trade Port Tourism and Culture Promotion Events will be held from September 7 to 11 at K11 Art Mall in Hong Kong. The promotional activity is a major step forward for Hainan’s tourism industry, as it indicates its attempt to make the island a premier destination for both domestic and overseas tourists.
The event seeks to enhance its tourist connections with Hong Kong and bring international tourists to visit China’s tropical haven. The tourism industry of Hainan has been laying emphasis on broadening its coverage to markets such as Hong Kong because of the geographical proximity, common cultural heritage, and business links between the two destinations.
Strengthening Tourism Ties: Collaborations Between Hainan and Hong Kong
In recent years, tourism and cultural exchanges between Hainan and Hong Kong have flourished. Increased travel between these two regions has led to a deeper mutual understanding and greater collaboration. As part of a strategic agreement signed earlier in 2025, both sides have worked together to develop “one-trip, multiple-stop” itineraries, offering a diverse range of high-end tourism experiences. This partnership allows tourists to explore both Hong Kong and Hainan with seamless connectivity, providing them with a rich and enriching travel experience that blends modernity with cultural heritage.
By focusing on multi-destination tourism, the two regions are attracting tourists who are eager to explore both Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan lifestyle and Hainan’s natural beauty. This strategy is expected to not only increase visitor numbers but also promote regional tourism in East Asia, helping to create new tourism markets and bolster local economies.
Expanding Access: Hainan’s Growing Connectivity with Hong Kong
Building on its close proximity, Hainan has also increased flight frequency between Hong Kong and Haikou/Sanya, making it easier for travelers to move between the Pearl of the Orient and the Sunshine of Hainan. This improved connectivity has effectively created a “one-hour tourism circle”, allowing travelers from Hong Kong to explore the charming beaches, lush forests, and cultural landmarks of Hainan with ease.
According to data from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television, and Sports of Hainan Province, over 85,000 tourists traveled to Hainan from Hong Kong from January to July 2025, marking a 28.8% increase in arrivals compared to the previous year. This growth reflects the rising appeal of Hainan as a tourism destination, particularly among visitors from Hong Kong and nearby regions.
Cultural Showcase and Exhibitions: Highlighting Hainan’s Heritage
At the heart of the Hainan tourism promotion event are the diverse cultural offerings that highlight the rich heritage and vibrant traditions of Hainan. The event will feature over 80 curated photographs, showcasing the island’s authentic culture and dynamic tourism experiences. Visitors will also be able to view nearly 200 exhibits that include intangible cultural heritage items, such as Li brocade, coconut carvings, Miao embroidery, and bamboo weaving.
Interactive activities, including martial arts demonstrations, folk singing and dancing, and artistic nail art displays, will allow visitors to engage with Hainan’s traditional culture in innovative ways. These activities are designed to not only attract tourists but also educate them about the island’s cultural richness, helping to foster cultural exchange between Hainan and Hong Kong.
Promoting Hainan’s Visa-Free Policy for Increased Visitor Access
A key factor in the growing tourism exchange between Hainan and Hong Kong is the island’s visa-free policy for citizens from 86 countries. Hainan also offers 144-hour visa-free entry for foreign tour groups from Hong Kong and Macao, and a 240-hour transit visa exemption, making it easier for travelers from across the globe to visit the island. These policies have created favorable conditions for tourists and businesses alike, allowing for easy access to Hainan’s cultural treasures.
In addition to its visa-free policies, Wang Yuechuan, Director of the International and Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan Market Promotion Office of the Department of Tourism, Culture, Radio, Television and Sports of Hainan Province, highlighted that Hainan is collaborating with major Hong Kong enterprises to develop international performances, art exhibitions, cultural tourism, and even broadcasting and film projects. These collaborations aim to boost Hainan’s global profile and attract more tourists from diverse regions.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Hainan’s Tourism Footprint
As Hainan’s tourism industry continues to thrive, future growth is expected to come from increased international collaboration, enhanced connectivity, and the diversification of tourism products. The island’s focus on cultural tourism and eco-tourism makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking both luxury and sustainability. The promotion event in Hong Kong is just the beginning of a larger strategy to position Hainan as a top global tourism destination, and the island’s evolving tourism infrastructure will support this growth for years to come.
Hainan’s Growing Role in the Global Tourism Landscape
The promotional efforts for tourism and strategic partnership, Hainan can become a significant player in the international market of tourism. With the display of its cultural heritage, natural scenery, and eco-tourism, Hainan is positioning itself for future growth and success as an international destination for tourists. Given Hainan’s deep ties with Hong Kong and local tourism markets, it is poised to welcome additional tourists, generate new economic activity, and construct a more sustainable tourism future.
