Editorial | ‘Symphony of Lights’ bowing out clears stage for new attractions
Ending the 22-year run of Hong Kong’s iconic light show underscores the city’s push to refresh its tourism appeal
Like a spirited overture to a harbourfront concert, the nightly ritual of synchronised laser beams and music across Hong Kong’s world-renowned skyline has become a cherished collective memory for Hongkongers over the past 22 years. However, as attractions emphasising immersive and interactive experiences gradually take centre stage in the tourism world, it is time for the spectacle to draw the curtain.
Plans are under way for a new series of light shows to debut as early as the second half of this year. Building on the “Immersive Light Show in Central”, which featured dynamic 3D projections, the new version will be staged across various sightseeing spots with emphasis on engagement and flexibility.
The original show was a highlight of the Hong Kong WinterFest last year, involving music and projections of festive animations onto eight buildings in the heart of the city’s business district. The new shows, instead of running every evening, will align with festive periods – such as the Mid-Autumn Festival and Halloween – to maximise impact and encourage repeat visits.
The revamp is among a raft of tourism initiatives announced in the latest government budget, including a 35 per cent rise in funding to HK$1.66 billion (US$212.5 million) for the Hong Kong Tourism Board. An additional HK$200 million has been set aside to boost rural village tourism.
Notwithstanding the industry’s relatively small contribution to the city’s gross domestic product, Hong Kong cannot afford to let visitors bypass the city as other economies step up efforts to attract tourist dollars. Having rolled out the carpet for some 50 million visitors last year, an encouraging 12 per cent rise from the previous year, the city must work harder to make itself a place that even the most seasoned travellers would want to visit again.