Guangzhou is actively preparing for the 15th National Games, which will be held from September 15 to 21, 2025, which will be a significant change. This event is not only an important sporting event, but also a milestone in the history of tourism development in Guangzhou, Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. At that time, the National Games are expected to enhance regional tourism infrastructure, promote cross-border tourism, and leave a lasting impression on international tourists.

Reinventing Guangzhou for a global audience

To cope with the influx of tourists, the city has invested heavily in tourism infrastructure. Important sports venues such as the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center and the Tianhe Sports Center have undergone large-scale renovations. These venues incorporate sustainable design concepts, including energy-efficient technologies and cultural elements, showcasing the city’s emphasis on modernization and environmental consciousness.

In addition, Guangzhou has added 291 new urban renovation projects, comprehensively improving the city’s parks, roads, lighting and green space environment. These upgrades not only meet the needs of the Olympics, but also ensure that visitors can experience a welcoming, friendly and rejuvenated city during their visit.

A unique cross-border sports experience

This year’s National Games are known for their cross-regional nature, with not only Guangzhou, but also Hong Kong and Macau participating. For the first time, these three regions will co-host the National Games program, providing travelers with the perfect opportunity to explore multiple destinations at once.

With the improvement of the transportation network and the launch of the border automation system, tourists will be able to travel between Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao more conveniently. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has launched a self-service electronic channel to facilitate fast entry for tourists. The Guangdong-Macao transport corridor has also been upgraded to cope with the growing tourist flow.

This cross-border event marks a potential regular move for the tourism industry in the Greater Bay Area, encouraging visitors to experience the unique cultures and attractions of these three regions.

From stadiums to street culture: tourist hotspots

Guangzhou is striving to establish itself as a year-round tourist destination, not just a host city for the Olympics. The event was used as a platform to showcase Guangzhou’s rich cultural heritage, seamlessly blending sports with local traditional culture.

The local government’s initiatives include creating cultural districts around the venue, where visitors can visit art galleries, sample street food, browse local markets, and enjoy music performances. These cultural experiences enrich the atmosphere of the Olympic Games and provide visitors with a deeper experience of the region’s vibrant lifestyle.

Additionally, Guangzhou is committed to creating a barrier-free environment, ensuring that all visitors, including those with disabilities, can enjoy the festival to the fullest. The deployment of smart accessible booths and autonomous vehicles is designed to help visitors with limited mobility.

Leverage strategic infrastructure to promote regional tourism

Beyond sporting events, Guangzhou’s tourism strategy revolves around infrastructure upgrades, aiming to benefit the region long after the Olympics. The impact of the Olympics is reflected in the city’s transportation, accommodation and cultural sectors. New hotels, transportation systems, and leisure facilities are helping Guangzhou meet the needs of sports tourists and regular visitors.

The Guangdong Provincial Tourism Administration reported a significant increase in accommodation demand, with hotel occupancy rates expected to increase significantly in Guangzhou and surrounding cities. As tourists take advantage of the Olympic Games to explore Guangzhou and the entire Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the growth in hotel bookings is expected to continue.

The city’s emphasis on tourism is also reflected in its active promotion of environmentally friendly travel methods. New electric buses, bike-sharing programs, and sustainable mobility initiatives aim to make it easier for visitors to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Legacy and economic impact: a long-term vision

While the 15th National Games are expected to generate short-term tourism revenue, Guangzhou’s long-term economic vision looks at creating lasting benefits for the local tourism industry. Upgraded stadiums, improved transportation infrastructure, and cultural initiatives will continue to attract visitors long after the event.

The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area has long been a hub for business, culture and tourism. The Olympic Games are expected to enhance the status of the Greater Bay Area as a global sports tourism destination, attracting tourists from all over China and overseas. As part of the Olympic legacy, the Greater Bay Area will become more convenient, with more convenient cross-border travel and richer tourist attractions.

What to look out for as a visitor？

Visitors to Guangzhou during the National Games will not only experience the city’s exceptional ability to host world-class sporting events, but also experience its diverse tourism experience. From cultural landmarks and lush green spaces to modern stadiums and world-class restaurants, Guangzhou is striving to create a diverse destination that caters to all types of travelers.

For families, the city’s convenient and kid-friendly venues will be a great way to enjoy the Olympics while also exploring the city’s cultural and natural beauty. Similarly, sports enthusiasts can immerse themselves in exciting high-level events and experience the passion of various team sports from track and field and gymnastics to basketball, volleyball and more.

Conclusion: A new era for tourism in Guangzhou

Guangzhou not only hosted the 15th National Games, but also took this opportunity to build itself into a global tourism center. Advanced sports infrastructure, cultural renaissance and increasingly convenient cross-border travel are making Guangzhou, along with Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau, an unmissable destination in 2025 and beyond.

The Olympics have brought lasting changes to the tourism landscape in Guangzhou, which is ready to welcome international visitors with open arms, showcasing its sporting prowess, cultural heritage, and modern infrastructure.