So Rule-Abiding? HK Media Denied Boarding on Empty Fan Shuttle Bus in Japan
On.cc · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A Hong Kong journalist covering the Hong Kong men's football team at the Asian Games in Kariya, Japan was denied boarding on an empty fan shuttle bus on September 23, even after repeated requests to staff. The incident highlighted the strict adherence to rules in Japanese society, as staff preferred sending the bus empty rather than allowing four media workers—including two Japanese journalists—to board. Despite the logistical frustration, the coverage also captured an uplifting moment when Hong Kong karate athlete Tsang Yat-ting won her first Asian Games silver medal.
Key Points
- The incident occurred at Kariya City Comprehensive Sports Park on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, after the Hong Kong men's football team's third group stage match .
- Local staff refused to let media board the fan shuttle bus despite the vehicle being completely empty, insisting it was reserved for fans only .
- Four media workers—including two Japanese journalists—were forced to wait at the media bus stop while the fan shuttle departed empty .
- The reporter also covered Tsang Yat-ting, a four-time Asian Games veteran, winning her first silver medal in karate at the Kariya venue .
- After her victory, Tsang Yat-ting ran to embrace her husband and son in the stands, then invited all Hong Kong media for a group selfie .
Why It Matters
For Hong Kong sports fans, the episode illustrates the dedication of journalists working abroad under challenging conditions to bring back stories of athletic achievement. Tsang Yat-ting's emotional victory—her first Asian Games medal after four appearances—serves as a reminder that behind every medal is a human story of perseverance and family support .
For Hong Kong sports fans, the episode illustrates the dedication of journalists working abroad under challenging conditions to bring back stories of athletic achievement. Tsang Yat-ting's emotional victory—her first Asian Games medal after four appearances—serves as a reminder that behind every medal is a human story of perseverance and family support .