Guide to Experiencing the 2025 National Games in Hong Kong
The 15th National Games of the People’s Republic of China, the country’s premier multi-sport competition, is making history by bringing a selection of its most exciting events to Hong Kong. From 9 to 21 November 2025, the city will transform into a dynamic arena for elite athletics, cultural celebrations, and a festival-like sporting experience. Hong Kong will host eight major competitions: men’s U22 basketball, track cycling, fencing, golf, men’s handball, rugby sevens, triathlon, and beach volleyball, along with a mass participation bowling event that invites community engagement. This guide is designed to help visitors navigate the Games, plan their schedules, and make the most of this unique sporting spectacle.
Hong Kong’s Role in the Games
While the opening ceremony will be held in Guangzhou and the closing ceremony in Shenzhen, Hong Kong is a key hub for several high-profile events. The city’s modern venues, strategic location, and international accessibility make it the ideal co-host. Hong Kong will showcase competitions that blend indoor and outdoor sports, fast-paced action and strategic contests, and professional-level performances with opportunities for public participation.
The Games provide Hong Kong with a chance to demonstrate its world-class infrastructure, organizational excellence, and hospitality. Spectators can expect state-of-the-art facilities, lively fan zones, and interactive cultural activities alongside the competitions. This combination of sport and culture makes Hong Kong a unique stop on the Games circuit and an unmissable destination for fans.
Key Dates for Hong Kong Events
The Hong Kong-hosted events are scheduled across multiple days, some beginning even before the official Games opening:
Beach Volleyball: 31 October – 10 November 2025
Men’s Handball: 1 – 10 November 2025
Rugby Sevens: 12 – 14 November 2025
Men’s U22 Basketball: 9 – 16 November 2025
Track Cycling: 13 – 17 November 2025
Golf: 13 – 16 November 2025
Triathlon: 15 – 16 November 2025
Fencing: 11 – 15 November 2025
Mass Participation Bowling: specific community days across early November
These dates represent a mix of preliminary rounds, elimination stages, and finals. High-profile finals usually take place in the last one or two days of each competition, so planning around these dates is essential for fans wanting to witness medal-deciding matches.
The Venues: Where the Action Happens
Hong Kong’s selection of venues reflects a combination of modern sports infrastructure and iconic urban spaces. Each venue offers a unique experience depending on the type of sport.
Kai Tak Sports Park (Kowloon)
Kai Tak Sports Park is the crown jewel of Hong Kong’s sports facilities, hosting fencing, men’s handball, rugby sevens, and the mass participation bowling event. The complex is designed for spectators, with clear sightlines, multiple seating tiers, and fan-friendly zones.
Fencing (11 – 15 November): Witness fast-paced, tactical duels as athletes test reflexes and strategy. The indoor environment ensures optimal visibility for spectators.
Rugby Sevens (12 – 14 November): One of the most thrilling events, rugby sevens combines speed, endurance, and skill. Fans can expect a festival-like atmosphere with cheering crowds, music, and team mascots.
Men’s Handball (1 – 10 November): Handball is a high-intensity sport that combines speed, teamwork, and tactical play. The venue provides excellent seating and close-up views of the court.
Mass Participation Bowling: Community days bring local residents into the Games, allowing them to experience the excitement firsthand. This participatory element adds a family-friendly dimension to the event.
Hong Kong Velodrome (Tseung Kwan O)
The Velodrome is the center of the track cycling competitions, running from 13 to 17 November. Spectators will experience breathtaking speed as athletes race on steeply banked tracks. The venue provides a combination of indoor seating and spectator walkways, giving multiple viewing perspectives. Finals typically occur on 16–17 November, with elimination rounds earlier in the week. Fans should plan to arrive early, especially for finals, to secure the best views.
Hong Kong Coliseum
Men’s U22 basketball will be held in this iconic venue from 9 to 16 November. The Coliseum is known for hosting major concerts and sporting events, offering a vibrant and electric atmosphere. Fans can expect a strong home crowd, particularly during knockout rounds, with seating close to the action, opportunities for merchandise purchases, and an environment that amplifies every dunk and three-point shot.
Hong Kong Golf Club – Fanling Course
Golf competitions run from 13 to 16 November, set in the serene Fanling area. Spectators can enjoy walking the course between holes, observing strategy and skill on manicured greens. This setting allows for a slower-paced, more contemplative experience compared to indoor or stadium events. Golf events also provide photo opportunities and a chance to observe sportsmanship and concentration in a scenic environment.
Victoria Park, Causeway Bay
Beach volleyball, scheduled 31 October – 10 November, brings outdoor energy to the Games. The urban park setting allows fans to combine sport with leisure, enjoying food stalls, live music, and the bustling park atmosphere. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot and experience the informal, festival-like spirit of this competition.
Harbourfront / Central Harbourfront
The triathlon, taking place 15–16 November, offers a unique blend of competition and scenic beauty. Athletes swim, cycle, and run along courses crossing Victoria Harbour, providing spectators with panoramic views of the city skyline. Key vantage points include the start and finish areas, where fans can witness the most exciting moments. Arriving early is essential for prime spots, and combining the event with a stroll along the promenade creates a perfect spectator experience.
Ticketing: Securing Your Place
Tickets for the Hong Kong-hosted events are in high demand, particularly for finals and high-profile competitions. Each person can purchase up to six tickets per event under a real-name system. Arriving early on event days ensures optimal seating and access to fan zones.
For peak events such as rugby sevens (12–14 November) or triathlon (15–16 November), early arrival is critical to avoid congestion. Indoor venues, such as the Coliseum or Velodrome, may have allocated seating, whereas outdoor venues like Victoria Park or the Harbourfront may operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Travel & Accommodation
Planning your stay around the event dates is crucial:
Accommodation: Book hotels as early as possible, particularly near Kai Tak, Causeway Bay, and Tseung Kwan O. Peak competition days (12–17 November) see the highest demand.
Transport: Hong Kong’s MTR and bus networks are efficient, but competition days can lead to crowded services. Allocate extra travel time, especially for outdoor events or venues farther from central areas.
Outdoor Event Prep: For beach volleyball or the triathlon, dress in layers, bring sun protection, and consider portable seating or mats if allowed. Road closures around these venues may require early arrival.
Spectator Experience
Fans can expect an electric atmosphere across the city:
Crowds: High-energy, particularly during finals and knockout rounds.
Cultural Experience: Beyond sports, fans can explore local food, street life, and cultural displays around venues.
Weather Considerations: November is generally mild but can vary. Check forecasts before outdoor events.
Fan Zones: Interactive activities, photo opportunities, and merchandise are concentrated around major venues, adding to the festival experience.
Sample Two-Day Itinerary
Day One – Thursday 13 November
Morning: Check into your hotel near Kai Tak or Kowloon.
Late morning: Attend early rounds of rugby sevens at Kai Tak Sports Park.
Afternoon: Explore fencing and handball competitions, then visit fan zones.
Evening: Watch knockout rounds of rugby sevens; enjoy dinner nearby.
Day Two – Saturday 15 November
Morning: Track cycling heats at Hong Kong Velodrome.
Afternoon: Beach volleyball or fencing finals (depending on schedule) in Victoria Park or Kai Tak.
Evening: Triathlon finish along the Harbourfront promenade; enjoy panoramic views and evening city lights.
Insider Tips
Prioritize key competition days: rugby sevens (12–14 November), track cycling finals (16–17 November), triathlon (15–16 November), golf finals (16 November).
Book tickets and accommodation as early as possible.
Arrive 30–60 minutes ahead for best seats, photos, and fan zone activities.
Dress for comfort and variable weather; bring water and sun protection.
Balance sports viewing with cultural exploration: Hong Kong offers markets, cuisine, and iconic attractions near every venue.
Why This is a Can’t-Miss Event
From 9 to 21 November 2025, Hong Kong becomes a hub of athletic excellence, energy, and cultural celebration. Between scenic triathlons, adrenaline-packed rugby sevens, strategic golf play, and high-speed cycling, spectators are guaranteed a thrilling experience. The combination of world-class venues, vibrant fan culture, and the city’s unique charm makes the 2025 National Games in Hong Kong an event that will create lasting memories for all visitors.
