Nuisance tourists on campus triggers HKU’s tourist diversion measures starting May 1

HKU announced on Thursday that the university will implement tourist diversion measures starting May 1, which include campus guided tours, to combat the rising nuisance of mainland tourists barging onto the campus.

This came in light of the increasing number of tourists visiting the University of Hong Kong's (HKU) campus, with many coming into the university canteens for the free lunch.

The University of Hong Kong is the oldest university in the city. The main building and several educational buildings have been rated as statutory monuments and historical buildings in Hong Kong, making HKU a popular attraction.

However, some netizens recently posted a complaint on Xiaohongshu, saying that the school is crowded with tourists and the roads are blocked by children, causing great trouble.

A survey conducted by Hong Kong student representatives found that nearly 90% of Hong Kong teachers and students surveyed agreed that too many tourists on campus cause a nuisance and put forward some suggestions such as organizing official tour groups and study tours by the school, installing gates and collecting admission fees, etc.

HKU announced today that the university will implement tourist diversion measures starting May 1, 2024, which include campus guided tours. These measures will be implemented in phases, and specific details will be announced gradually.

The university will closely monitor the effectiveness of the measures and make necessary adjustments after taking into account feedback from teachers, students and the public.

The arrangements for entry onto the HKU campus for invited persons, approved service providers and community members remain unchanged.

The institute emphasized that the relevant management measures are aimed at maintaining a good teaching environment for teachers and students in Hong Kong and are open to visitors who wish to explore the university’s campus and its history.

Adding that, HKU has always been fully recognized for its efforts in promoting community development and building partnerships, and it will continue to work hard to keep the campus open to the public and make full use of campus facilities.