The Hong Kong government's plan to revitalize nine tourism hotspots has drawn mixed reactions, with Ta Kung Pao reporters visiting three Kowloon sites—Kowloon Walled City Park, the Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard, and the Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station—uncovering sluggish progress and visitor frustrations.
Kowloon Walled City Park: Delays and Disappointment
At Kowloon Walled City Park, the historic "Yamen" exhibition hall—set to host a film-themed display—remains closed for renovations until late this month. Nearby vendors suggested creating miniature replicas of old city structures and adding markets to enhance the experience. Visitors criticized the park's small-scale model of the walled city, calling for immersive recreations. "It's hard to see the original layout. A walk-through replica would be better." A store selling movie merchandise reported a post-film tourism boost but noted visitors "only glance around and leave," urging deeper historical exhibits and better facilities, including restrooms and directional signage.
Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station: Iconic but Inaccessible
The Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station, a filming location for classic Hong Kong dramas, drew crowds despite ongoing facade repairs and construction noise from the Central Kowloon Route project. Visitors complained of litter, a lack of trash bins, and scarce seating. Tourist Ms. Tsai, a fan of Hong Kong TV shows, called for interactive experiences like police uniform role-play. "I'd pay for that—it'd feel like stepping into a movie," she said, also advocating guided tours to explain the site's history. Ms. Lee, who walked from Mong Kok, urged shaded rest areas and faster construction: "It's exhausting, and the mess ruins the vibe."
Hung Hom Railway Freight Yard: A Barren "Future Hub"
The former Hung Hom Railway Freight Terminal, slated to become a waterfront event space, remains undeveloped—a fenced-off wasteland with no amenities. The adjacent Hung Hom and Tsim Sha Tsui promenades are disconnected, forcing visitors to detour via overhead bridges. District Councilor Lam Tak-shing called for immediate upgrades: signage, safer railings, and temporary food stalls ahead of its planned Q1 2025 opening. Long-term proposals include yacht berths and an "sky garden" to transform the area into a landmark.
While the government aims to leverage cultural nostalgia and cinematic appeal, visitors and stakeholders emphasize urgent improvements: enhanced facilities, immersive experiences, and seamless connectivity. As one vendor warned, "Without deeper engagement, these sites risk becoming fleeting photo stops rather than lasting attractions."
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