Hong Kong Launches First Real-Name Trail Booking System at Sai Kung Geo Trail
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong's inaugural real-name trail reservation system took effect Saturday at the Po Pin Chau section of the High Island Geo Trail in Sai Kung, marking a new approach to managing visitor numbers at the UNESCO Global Geopark . Hundreds of residents and tourists braved summer heat to visit the iconic hexagonal rock columns as authorities implemented the 2,000-visitor daily cap between 9am and 5pm . Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department Director Mickey Lai Kin-ming reported smooth operations, with approximately 140 visitors arriving by mid-morning and about 50 unused slots released to walk-ins . The system, which requires no booking fees or penalties for no-shows for now, aims to protect the narrow trail from excessive wear and prevent overcrowding .
Key Points
- The Po Pin Chau section of the High Island Geo Trail now operates under a real-name registration system with a 2,000-visitor daily limit
- Visitors may only access the trail between 9am and 5pm, with approximately 1km of path within the UNESCO Global Geopark
- Director Mickey Lai Kin-ming confirmed about 140 visitors arrived by 10.10am, comparable to previous weekends
- A Beijing tourist named Doreen Sun, who learned about the trail through RedNote, supported the system citing safety benefits
- No booking fees or penalties for failing to attend will be charged at this stage, with the quota subject to review
Why It Matters
The trial at Sai Kung establishes a precedent for visitor management across Hong Kong's countryside attractions, potentially reshaping how the government balances environmental protection with public access to natural landmarks . Success or criticism of this system will likely influence future policies for managing popular hiking destinations facing overcrowding and ecological degradation .
The trial at Sai Kung establishes a precedent for visitor management across Hong Kong's countryside attractions, potentially reshaping how the government balances environmental protection with public access to natural landmarks . Success or criticism of this system will likely influence future policies for managing popular hiking destinations facing overcrowding and ecological degradation .