Kai Tak Sports Park packed with mega events

Ayra Wang

Kai Tak Sports Park has officially opened with a series of exciting events and performances lined up, including the ongoing World Grand Prix snooker and the upcoming Hong Kong Sevens later this month.

To help the public navigate the new venue, Sing Tao Probe conducted a transportation test to compare travel times to the three key facilities within the park - the Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Arena and Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground.

The test began in Mong Kok, with two reporters taking the MTR train to Kai Tak station and Sung Wong Toi station, respectively, before walking to the main stadium, arena and sports ground.

The results showed that it takes approximately 10 minutes to walk from Exit D of Sung Wong Toi station to the main stadium, while reaching the arena and sports ground took about 10 and five minutes, respectively.

Walking from Kai Tak station's Exit D to the main stadium took around 12 minutes - slightly longer than from Sung Wong Toi station. It took eight minutes and 13 minutes to reach the arena and sports ground, respectively.

Distinctive color-coded directional signs were observed along the way: purple for the main stadium, red for the arena, and blue for the sports ground, making navigation straightforward.

People heading to the sports ground are suggested to alight at Sung Wong Toi station (Exit D), which would save about eight minutes compared to exiting from Kai Tak station. For the other two venues, the walking time difference is minimal - around two minutes - allowing flexibility in choosing stations during major events.

Drop-off zones may be closed during major events

Reporters also tested KMB bus route 1A from Nelson Street in Mong Kok, alighting at the Regal Oriental Hotel in Kowloon City before walking to the main stadium. The whole journey, including the walk, took about 40 minutes.

Several bus routes also stop near the sports park, such as those along Prince Edward Road East, including the ones at The Latitude, Regal Oriental Hotel, and Sung Wong Toi Garden. It would take about 15 to 20 minutes to walk to the main stadium from these stops. Taxi and private car users should note that drop-off zones near the main stadium and arena may be temporarily closed during major events. Passengers taking a taxi will need to use the drop-off zone on Sung Wong Toi Road and walk to the venues.

Taxi passengers should pay attention to announcements from the Transport Department and the park.

During major events, special traffic arrangements will also be in place, and drivers are required to park in Kowloon City or To Kwa Wan and walk over 20 minutes to the park.

To save time and avoid hassles, members of public are advised to use public transport.

ayra.wang@singtaonewscorp.com