Horse racing tourism has become Hong Kong's new ace! Jockey Club upgrades to attract customers with billions of dollars!

Hong Kong's “event economy” gains fresh impetus! The latest sensation is the uniquely local “horse racing tourism”. Responding to the government's call, the Hong Kong Jockey Club has invested over HK$10 billion to upgrade Sha Tin and Happy Valley racecourses. This has successfully attracted large numbers of visitors travelling specifically to experience Hong Kong's horse racing culture, creating a new highlight for the city's tourism!

It must be noted that horse racing has long been one of Hong Kong's iconic cultural symbols. The Jockey Club's billion-dollar investment in upgrades has undoubtedly enhanced the appeal of this distinctive cultural asset. Whether it's the refurbished grandstand facilities, more convenient entry experience, or modern technology-integrated viewing services, both Sha Tin and Happy Valley racecourses have been revitalised. This not only caters to local racing enthusiasts but also allows international visitors to appreciate the unique charm of Hong Kong horse racing.

The upgrade's impact has been immediate! With the 2025/26 racing season only three months underway, visitor numbers have already surpassed 110,000 – significantly exceeding last year's figures well ahead of schedule. Many travellers from mainland China and overseas have included horse racing experiences in their Hong Kong itineraries. On-site, they not only study races intently and savour the thrill of placing bets, but also visit distinctive eateries and souvenir shops around the racecourse, further boosting local spending.

One visitor remarked that having heard of Hong Kong's racing reputation beforehand, the actual experience at the racecourse exceeded expectations with its electric atmosphere and professional race commentary. Local businesses also reported a noticeable upturn in trade around the racecourse recently, with many visitors making spontaneous purchases that boosted revenue.

Indeed, the rise of ‘horse racing tourism’ represents another successful implementation of Hong Kong's ‘event economy’ strategy. By deeply tapping into local cultural resources and upgrading physical facilities, traditional events are being revitalised. This not only enriches visitors' leisure options but also injects fresh momentum into Hong Kong's economy. It is anticipated that as supporting services continue to mature, ‘horse racing tourism’ will attract even more visitors, establishing itself as a flagship attraction within Hong Kong's tourism landscape.