Hong Kong to offer guided tours of discipline services museums, pharmaceutical factories

Hong Kong is expanding its tourism offerings with unique behind-the-scenes experiences, including organized group visits to discipline services museums and potential tours of pharmaceutical factories, said Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration Warner Cheuk Wing-hing.

His comments came as the SAR government recently announced nine new tourism projects—designed to offer a "strong Hong Kong flavor"—aim to provide fresh attractions that even repeat visitors may not have explored before.

Speaking on a radio program Saturday morning, Cheuk highlighted the popularity of Hong Kong's discipline forces-themed TV dramas and movies across Southeast Asia and mainland China.

To capitalize on this interest, authorities are working with relevant departments and travel agencies to arrange structured "group-in, group-out" tours of discipline services museums, he said.

One key project is the upcoming opening of the historic Yau Ma Tei Police Station in the fourth quarter of this year. Initially, only the ground floor will be accessible, but plans are underway to potentially relocate the Police Museum on Coombe Road to the restored station, offering visitors a comprehensive look at the force's history.

Tourism Commissioner Angelina Cheung Fung Wing-ping, speaking on the same program, noted the Hong Kong Tourism Board's efforts are to attract more Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern visitors.

She said over 600 influencers were invited to showcase the city's offerings last year.

To better accommodate diverse tourists, authorities have been working with hotels and restaurants to improve facilities, including helping eateries obtain halal certification, she said, adding that the number of certified restaurants has now grown to around 170.

Cheuk also revealed that beyond the previously announced "Made in Hong Kong" brand tours, the government is in discussions with pharmaceutical companies about allowing visitors to observe medicine manufacturing processes.

While drugmakers are still evaluating the proposal—which may require facility upgrades to meet safety standards—the initiative aligns with the growing demand for immersive urban exploration.

Cheuk said the nine new projects, including the Yau Ma Tei Police Station and an in-depth city walking tour, reflect Hong Kong's strategy to cater to modern travelers who favor cultural deep dives over traditional shopping.

"These experiences showcase our unique local character," Cheuk emphasized, signaling the city's commitment to reinventing its tourism appeal.

(Marco Lam)