Hong Kong eyes real-name booking for Sai Kung geopark hotspot to curb overtourism

Hong Kong authorities are exploring a real-name reservation system for the popular Po Pin Chau hiking trail in Sai Kung to combat overtourism. Dianne Wong, undersecretary for environment and ecology, stated at a Legislative Council meeting that the system would manage visitor flow during holidays, preventing overcrowding at the scenic spot known for its views. Po Pin Chau, part of Hong Kong's UNESCO Global Geopark, attracts large numbers of tourists, particularly during Golden Week holidays. Recent crowd control measures, like temporary trail closures, have proven insufficient for promoting eco-tourism. Wong believes a booking system will improve visitor expectations and management. Lawmaker Kitson Yang raised concerns about potential misuse, suggesting lotteries or deposits. Wong acknowledged these points, stating that appropriate measures would be taken against offenders and that a ballot system would be studied. In a related development, authorities plan to designate approximately 63 hectares of coral areas around Sharp Island as a marine park. This follows environmental damage observed during a previous Golden Week, where tourists were seen trampling corals and disturbing marine life. The designation aims to strengthen legal protection for the local marine ecosystem.

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In the future, [tourists] will only come if they have made a booking, which will be better for their own expectation management.