Hong Kong considers real-name booking for Sai Kung geopark hotspot to curb overtourism

Hong Kong officials are developing a real-name reservation system for Po Pin Chau, a scenic hiking destination in Sai Kung that has experienced severe overcrowding, particularly during holiday periods when mainland visitors arrive in large numbers. The booking mechanism aims to manage visitor capacity more effectively than current crowd control measures, which involve turning people away once sites reach maximum occupancy. A fatal incident in which a young tourist fell from a cliff at the location has underscored safety concerns associated with excessive foot traffic. Officials acknowledge that a registration requirement would help visitors plan their trips better while reducing strain on the environment. Separately, authorities announced plans to establish a marine protected area around coral ecosystems at nearby Sharp Island, following reports of environmental damage from trampling and disturbance of marine life during recent holiday peaks.

These measures reflect growing tensions between Hong Kong's tourism economy and environmental sustainability, as popular natural sites face degradation and safety risks from unmanaged visitor surges.