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Tourism Authority of Thailand welcomes the 7th One Belt One Road Colourful Yunnan Car Rally to Thailand
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) recently welcomed the delegation of the 7th One Belt One Road Colourful Yunnan Car Rally in Thailand, an 18-day journey exploring major and hidden-gem destinations across the country. The delegation was warmly welcomed in Nakhon Ratchasima on 3 December 2024. Hosted by TAT, the reception dinner featured a traditional Bai Sri Su Kwan welcoming ceremony, where sacred threads were tied around the wrists of guests to bring blessings, protection, and strengthen bonds. The event also included cultural performances, such as a traditional Isaan music show and a lively folk-dance session, offering guests an authentic taste of Thai culture. This significant event heralds the upcoming 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China in 2025, celebrating the enduring bond between the two nations. TAT East Asia regional director Chuwit Sirivachkul said: “The Chinese market, especially car rally tourists, plays a vital role in enhancing Thailand’s tourism infrastructure and services. This initiative not only promotes travel to Thailand’s hidden-gem destinations but also offers visitors the opportunity to experience our country’s breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural diversity, and the warm hospitality of the Thai people.” An extensive journey Comprising 45 vehicles and 120 participants from the People’s Republic of China, the rally began its journey from China on 19th November, entering Thailand through the Second Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge in Mukdahan on 22 November. Over the next 18 days, the rally will visit multiple provinces, including Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai, Lampang, Ayutthaya, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Songkhla, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Saraburi, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, and Nong Khai. Throughout their journey, participants will engage in tourism activities that support local economies in both major cities and off-the-beaten-path destinations. The rally is part of a broader effort to enhance bilateral cooperation under the ‘One Belt, One Road initiative. The event underscores the shared goals of economic, cultural, and tourism exchange, while embracing the Chinese phrase Zhong Tai Yi Jia Qin: translated as China and Thailand Are As Close As One Family, further strengthening the ties between the peoples of both nations. With Chinese arrivals to Thailand surpassing 6.2 million between 1 January and 1 December 2024, China remains the leading source of international visitors. The warm welcome, beautiful sights, and delicious food make Thailand a preferred destination for Chinese tourists. Amid challenges such as limited flight availability, promoting alternatives like car rally tourism helps diversify travel opportunities and supports achieving this year’s target of 7.3 million Chinese visitors.
The Lux Collective and Lijiang Yulong Tourism Ltd celebrate a 10-year partnership in Yunnan, China
This year marks a decade-long partnership between Lijiang Yulong Tourism Ltd and global hospitality group The Lux Collective, which first began in 2013. In celebration of the milestone, Lijiang Yulong Tourism Ltd and LUX* Tea Horse Road had collaborated with international editorial photographer and author Mr Michael Freeman to present an exclusive photo exhibition "Michael Freeman - Yunnan Through the Lens" in Lijiang, and also unveiled the Group’s soon-to-opened eighth LUX* Tea Horse Road China resort - LUX* Lashi Lake. In summer 2008, Michael embarked on a major stop of his travels in China and fell in love with the 13th century-old Tea Horse Road. His photography project there lasted two and a half years, resulting in the publication of the book <Tea Horse Road> in 2011. The well-received book captures the history, community, and culture of the Tea Horse Road, covering locations from Lijiang and Shangri-La, to Nujiang and Tengchong. In 2016, Michael was commissioned by The Lux Collective to produce an introductory brochure named <LUX* Tea Horse Road China>, kickstarting the beginning of a long-lasting relationship. LUX* Tea Horse Road China is a collection of exquisite retreats located in some of the world’s most off-grid destinations. To mark the anniversary, and Michael's return to the Tea Horse Road, the "Michael Freeman - Yunnan Through the Lens" exhibition was co-organised by Lijiang Yulong Tourism Ltd and The Lux Collective on 3 June 2023, supported by the Lijiang Photographers Association. A total of 36 of Michael’s masterpieces were exhibited at Lijiang with 100 local and overseas guests in attendance. He Xianzhong, Chairman of Lijiang Yulong Tourism Ltd said, "The photo exhibition celebrates our fruitful collaboration with LUX* Tea Horse Road. We are proud of our award-winning resorts which have been built around nature with a sense of place. With The Lux Collective, we look forward to developing the Lijiang tourism, bringing more personalised journeys to Yunnan.” Pu Hong, Secretary of Lijiang Municipal Party Committee attended the exhibition and held a formal meeting with Mr Paul Jones, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective and Mr Michael Freeman. Extending her congratulations, Ms Hong commented, “Showcasing world-renowned tourism and hospitality, Lijiang is an ancient city radiating the energy of modernity. I look forward to Mr Jones’ and Mr Freeman’s continual wonderful support in presenting the beauty and culture of Lijiang to the world and bringing the world to Lijiang." Veteran hotelier and Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective Paul Jones said, “The city of Lijiang is rich in its cultural and tourism resources and has great potential for tourism market development. As a global hospitality group rooted in sustainability, The Lux Collective will continue to promote Lijiang as a destination to the international market, while elevating the art of hotel management and services, local hospitality talent development, and business development. With this, we aim to strengthen our strategic cooperation for the greater good in this beautiful Yunnan region of China.” In 2014, LUX* Tea Horse Road opened its first hotel in Lijiang - an UNESCO World Heritage Site, as the cornerstone of The Lux Collective’s entry into the China market. During the past years, another six hotels and retreats along Tea Horse Road opened, including LUX* Benzilan, LUX* Sangushui, LUX* Peach Valley, LUX* Daju Village, LUX* Stone Town and LUX* Shangri-La. As part of the celebrations, the two companies also jointly unveiled the upcoming opening of the eighth resort of LUX* Tea Horse Road China: LUX* Lashi Lake – with a symbolic handover ceremony onsite. Featuring nine thoughtfully designed rooms, a restaurant, and a Café LUX* with a view, this boutique retreat has a prime address located at the doorstep of the tranquil Lashi Lake. To discover a unique Yunnan journey with extraordinary experiences, visit LUX* Horse Road.
Yunnan Tourism targets US travel trade
The provincial tourism board in Yunnan, southwest China, recently completed a roadshow in the US, where it met with American travel agents. From 7-11 May 2017, the Yunnan Provincial Tourism Development Commission joined forces with the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) to promote and market Yunnan tourism in the US. The first stop of the roadshow was Houston, where a high-level Yunnanese delegation took part in the Southwest ASTA 2017 trade show. More than 100 American travel agents attended the event. Then on 10 May, the Yunnan delegation had a symposium with ASTA in Washington DC, during which the two parties signed a Memorandum of Cooperation on tourism marketing, tourism education and tourism investment. "Yunnan hopes to join hands with American travel agents to enhance tourism cooperation and better promote the Sino-US tourism industry," said Chen Zhenlong, deputy director general of Yunnan Provincial Tourism Development Commission. He also invited American travel agents to participate in the 2017 China International Travel Mart (CITM 2017), which is being held in Yunnan's capital Kunming this October.
TAT pushes secondary destinations as Indian tourist arrivals hit record 2.48 million
For decades, the story of Indian travel to Thailand was written in volume. In 2025, that story hit a record-breaking chapter as 2.48 million Indian tourists crossed the border—a 17% year-on-year increase that solidified India as one of the kingdom's top three global source markets. But as the 2026 travel season approaches, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is shifting the narrative. The goal is no longer just how many people arrive, but how they experience the destination. “Our approach for 2026 is firmly centered on value-led growth,” says Nattachit Oonsiam, Director of the TAT Mumbai Office. “We expect tourism to grow by a minimum of 10% year-on-year, but with a stronger focus on quality, length of stay, and experience depth rather than volume alone.” The Pivot to 'Secondary' Gems A major pillar of the 2026 strategy is a deliberate move to ease pressure on hotspots like Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya. While these hubs remain the primary gateway for the millions of travelers arriving via direct flights from Indian metros like Delhi and Mumbai, the TAT is now steering visitors toward "secondary destinations." The initiative aims to promote "slow travel"—longer itineraries that immerse travelers in local heritage while ensuring tourism revenue reaches smaller communities. “Travelers are becoming more intentional,” Oonsiam explains. “We expect stronger demand for wellness, regional exploration, and hidden places, particularly among millennials and families.” Hidden Gems to Add to Your 2026 Itinerary For those looking to venture beyond the neon lights and crowded shores, Oonsiam highlights ten destinations that offer "depth, character, and a strong sense of place": Nan: A sanctuary for heritage lovers known for its ancient temples and a townscape that seems frozen in time. Mae Hong Son & Ban Rak Thai: Nestled in the mountains, this region offers a slow-paced life and a Yunnan-influenced tea culture. Lampang: A hub of preserved architecture and traditional horse-drawn carriages. Chiang Rai & Doi Tung: Beyond the famous White Temple, these regions offer Royal Gardens and sweeping hill-country vistas. Trat (Koh Kood, Koh Mak, and Koh Chang): A trio of islands focused on low-impact stays and community-led tourism. Trang Islands: For those seeking pristine, underdeveloped beaches and turquoise waters. Khao Sok National Park: An ancient rainforest landscape featuring towering limestone cliffs and freshwater lakes. Kanchanaburi: A blend of somber history and spectacular nature, famous for its waterfalls and river-side caves.
‘Value is the new volume’: Thai tourism chief outlines 2026 India strategy
Khun Nattachit Oonsiam, Director of Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)-Mumbai Thailand is pivoting its 2026 India strategy toward "value-led growth," targeting a 10% increase in tourism revenue by prioritising high-spending travellers over sheer arrival volumes. Following a year where Indian arrivals surged to 2.48 million, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is now shifting its focus toward increasing the length of stay and promoting secondary destinations to combat overtourism in hubs like Bangkok and Phuket. Travel Daily Media interviews Nattachit Oonsiam, Director, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Mumbai Office to find out more about the destinations marketing plans in India. Wat-Arun-Temple-Bangkok-Thailand Travel Daily Media (TDM): Thailand is a very popular destination with Indian tourists. To further promote the destination, what all campaigns did you launch in India in 2025? Can you also share the numbers of tourists that have visited Thailand in 2025 globally and statistics from India as well? Nattachit Oonsiam (NO): In 2025, our focus in India was on targeted engagement rather than broad-based promotion. Campaigns such as ASEAN + India Shoppers in Thailand, Living It Up in Thailand, and Celebrations with Care and Inner Shine, corporate and incentive group scheme were designed around evolving travel preferences of not just Indians but global travellers, including shopping, culture, food, weddings, and milestone travel. These were supported by sustained trade activity, roadshows, and familiarisation programmes, and aligned under the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, which gave us a strong year-round cultural and experiential framework. Thailand welcomed 32.97 million international visitors in 2025. From India, arrivals crossed 2.48 million, marking a 17 per cent year-on-year increase and reinforcing India’s position as one of Thailand’s top three source markets. Chiang Rai - Wat Rong Suea Ten - Blue Temple TDM: Which parts of India are you getting the maximum tourists from? What are you doing to promote the destination in Tier-2 cities? Which are the main airlines that connect to your country from India? NO: Metros like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad continue to be our strongest source markets, while Tier-2 cities like Nagpur, Kochi, Indore, Coimbatore etc are showing consistent growth. To support this, we expanded our trade efforts like workshops, sales calls to these cities with the aim to improve product knowledge and encourage more diverse itineraries even from Tier- 2 markets. Air connectivity plays a crucial role. Direct services by IndiGo, Air India, Thai Airways, Thai AirAsia, SpiceJet, and Thai VietJet now connect multiple Indian cities to Thailand’s key gateways. Combined with visa-free entry, this has supported repeat visits and family travel from across India. Scuba Diving at Koh Tao TDM: Going forward, what will be the direction of your marketing and promotional strategies for 2026? What are your targets for 2026? Which new source markets for tourism are you looking at in 2026? NO: Our approach for 2026 is firmly centered on value-led growth. We expect tourism to grow by a minimum of 10 per cent year-on-year, with a stronger focus on quality, length of stay, spends per person and experience depth rather than volume alone. India will remain a priority market, particularly for luxury travel, wellness, event-led travel, weddings & MICE. TDM: Seeing the progress that Thailand tourism has made, many other SE destinations are promoting themselves further for tourism. Which destinations are your competitors, and how well geared are you to face the competition? NO: Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore are all actively engaging the Indian market. Thailand’s advantage lies in its diversity and maturity as a destination. Beaches, cities, culture, wellness, and gastronomy can all be experienced within a single journey. Our focus is now on raising service standards, promoting sustainability, and highlighting secondary destinations alongside established hubs such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, allowing Thailand to remain competitive while offering depth and balance. Phang Nga, Thailand TDM: Crowds and congestion completely destroy a destination and irk the locals. Which destinations in Thailand have succumbed to overtourism? What are you doing to reduce the same? NO: Destinations such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Pattaya do experience seasonal pressure at certain times of the year due to their popularity. Acknowledging this openly is important. Our focus has been on managing growth more responsibly so that tourism does not come at the cost of local communities or the environment. Measures include promoting secondary cities and regions to spread visitor flows, introducing capacity controls in environmentally sensitive areas, and strengthening community-led tourism so local stakeholders benefit directly. These efforts are supported by close coordination between provincial authorities, tourism bodies, and the private sector, with clearer visitor guidelines and improved infrastructure. The objective is to reduce pressure on key hotspots while maintaining a positive, well-managed experience for travellers. Railay beach, Krabi, Thailand TDM: How do you see the traveller profiles changing going into 2026? What new tourism trends will rule 2026? How can travel advisors get well prepared for the same? NO: Travellers are becoming more intentional in their choices. In 2026, we expect stronger demand for wellness travel, longer stays, regional exploration, hidden places and culturally immersive experiences, particularly among millennials and families. Travel advisors who move beyond standard packages and develop expertise in regional destinations and thematic travel will be better placed to meet these evolving expectations. Khao Sok National Park TDM: Can you share for our readers lesser-known beautiful destinations in Thailand worth exploring? NO: For travellers looking to venture beyond Thailand's most popular hubs, several destinations provide depth, character, and a strong sense of place. Nan: Known for its heritage temples and peaceful townscape. Mae Hong Son & Ban Rak Thai: Mountain landscapes and slow-paced village life & A Yunnan-influenced village with tea culture. Lampang: Preserved architecture and traditional charm. Chiang Rai and Doi Tung: Royal Gardens and Hill Country Views Trat (Koh Kood, Koh Mak and Koh Chang): Quiet beaches and low-impact island stays, Community-led tourism and relaxed island life Trang Islands: Pristine islands with limited development. Khao Sok National Park: It features ancient rainforest and freshwater landscapes. Kanchanaburi: Waterfalls, Caves, and Historical Sites These destinations promote slower travel and more evenly distributed tourism, thereby supporting long-term growth and providing visitors with more meaningful experiences. Surat Thani-Ko Samui-Bang Rak Beach
Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office and Agoda join forces to support MSMEs in the Greater Mekong Subregion
The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office (MTCO) and digital travel platform Agoda teamed up to strengthen the digital capabilities of micro, small and medium-scale accommodation providers across the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). The regional E-commerce Training for MSME Accommodation Providers in the Greater Mekong Subregion will commence this Thursday, 18th September, with the Thailand session, marking the beginning of a series running through November. MTCO executive director Suvimol Thanasarakij said: “We are delighted to partner with Agoda on this important initiative. By working together across borders, we can ensure that small operators in our region are equipped with the digital tools they need to connect with global travelers and share the unique experiences of the Mekong.” Agoda chief commercial officer Damien Pfirsch added: “This partnership with MTCO reflects our dedication to small businesses and our tech-first approach. We expect this initiative to help bring global visibility to these accommodations and help distribute economic benefits across the GMS.” The training series will run from September to November 2025, beginning in Thailand before expanding to Cambodia, Viet Nam, Lao PDR, and China (Yunnan & Guangxi). These workshops are expected to lay the groundwork for stronger, digitally enabled tourism businesses, helping those in the GMS meet rising visitor demand while supporting sustainable growth and regional competitiveness. A storied first This marks the first collaboration between MTCO, Agoda, and the GMS National Tourism Organizations of Cambodia, China (Yunnan and Guangxi), Lao PDR, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The programme supports homestays, ecolodges, and guesthouses in rural and secondary destinations, essentially enterprises that are vital to inclusive and community-based tourism in the GMS and stand to benefit from stronger digital engagement in the global marketplace. By strengthening capacity at the grassroots level, the training will help accommodation providers across the Mekong region prepare to welcome the growing number of visitors by enhancing their online presence, competitiveness, and business sustainability. That said, this initiative represents a milestone in regional tourism cooperation, showcasing the value of public–private partnerships in advancing digital transformation and inclusive tourism. Delivered online in local languages and tailored to each location, the workshops provide participants with practical skills to create and manage listings on online travel agency platforms like Agoda. The training will cover uploading room inventory and images, managing availability and pricing, implementing promotions, and engaging effectively with customer reviews.
Tourism Authority of Thailand launches Bangkok-Beijing Friendship Caravan
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) together with the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association launched the Once in a Lifetime Bangkok–Beijing Friendship Caravan on Friday, 29th August. The 16-day caravan journey celebrates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. The sojourn runs from 10th to 25th October and spans more than 5,000 kilometres, beginning at Sanam Luang in Bangkok and concluding at Tiananmen Square in Beijing. The ceremonial announcement was presided over by former Thai Deputy Prime Minister and president of the Thai–Chinese Friendship Association Korn Dabbaransi in the presence of Yang Xiao Long, minister-counsellor in the cultural section of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand, and TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool. Kiathphaibool said: “This symbolic journey demonstrates the enduring friendship between Thailand and China and reflects the shared commitment to strengthen cultural and tourism exchanges. The caravan serves as a celebration of 50 years of diplomatic ties while building a bridge for two-way tourism, inviting Thai travellers to experience the beauty of China, and encouraging Chinese visitors to rediscover the warmth and diversity of Thailand.” Electric energy The caravan will be made up of 15 BYD Sealion 6DMH vehicles travelling through historic and cultural landmarks. Highlights include Xishuangbanna, Jinhong, Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, and Guiyang, the capital of Guizhou Province, home to the renowned Huangguoshu Waterfall. The journey will then continue through Hunan Province to Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, known as the “Avatar Mountains”, before heading north to Xi’an to view the Terracotta Army, continuing to Pingyao, and culminating in Beijing for the official 50th anniversary commemoration. The route will take participants from Bangkok via Phitsanulok, Phayao, and Chiang Khong, crossing into Lao PDR at Huai Sai and Bo Ten, and onward into China through Mohan Crossing, Xishuangbanna, Pu’er, Kunming, Guiyang, Fenghuang, Wulingyuan–Zhangjiajie, Xiangyang, Xi’an, Pingyao, and Baoding. The final stage in Beijing will feature a grand ceremony marking the 50th anniversary of Thai–Chinese diplomatic relations, during which participants will receive commemorative certificates before returning by air to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. The Bangkok–Beijing caravan is expected to generate wide exposure, with coverage by CCTV, China Daily, PPTV, and major online platforms across China, reaching an estimated audience of more than one billion. In partnership with BYD and Workpoint TV, the initiative underscores Thailand’s role as a welcoming destination for Chinese travellers, reinforcing cultural ties and enhancing confidence in bilateral tourism growth.
China-Laos-Thailand railway initiative to boost economic growth in Southeast Asia
Experts at the Conference on Logistics and Tourism Promotion Along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway declared that new inroads to cooperation could be made via better transportation connectivity in the region. The conference was held in Khon Kaen, Thailand on Tuesday, 19th August. According to Mekong Institute executive director Suriyan Vichitlekarn: "Transport connectivity, particularly the railway system, is a strategic economic corridor for boosting economic growth, regional resilience and deepening intercountry integration across the Greater Mekong Subregion.” Indeed, the railway which takes travellers from the Golden Triangle to the Chinese mainland stands to benefit fields as diverse as health and wellness, tourism, logistics, and the creative sector. Vichitlekarn said: "Logistics efficiency is a tangible leap forward for cross-border trade facilitation. The railway brings exciting possibilities for revitalizing regional tourism. It catalyzes inclusive economic opportunities, particularly for cultural and community-based tourism.” Cooperative efforts Organised by the Mekong Institute, the conference was co-hosted by the Chinese Consulate General in Khon Kaen and the Foreign Affairs Office of China's Yunnan province. Over 300 participants attended, including government officials, scholars and industry representatives from China, Laos, Thailand, and other nations within Southeast Asia Chinese consul-general to Khon Kaen Liu Hongmei said at the event: "The cooperation practice of the China-Laos-Thailand Railway is a vivid example of mutual benefit and win-win between China and its neighboring countries. The conference provides a mechanism guarantee for the railway to fully exert its benefits." Liu added that, with greater logistics efficiency and deeper tourism collaboration ahead, the railway will not only serve as a driver of regional economic growth but also as a bridge bringing people across the region closer. While the Thai section remains under construction, it is expected that the completed China-Laos-Thailand Railway will connect Bangkok with Yunnan via Laos, where a high-speed line is already in operation. The project's second phase in Thailand is expected to be operational by 2030. More than another link Likewise, Thai vice-minister of tourism and sports Jakkaphon Tangsutthitham pointed out how the railway is more than just a physical link: it also serves as a strategic gateway connecting China with Southeast Asia. As such, it will be a driving force for the tourism industry that links cultural, natural and creative destinations across the region. However, Tangsutthitham also pointed out that having the infrastructure alone is not enough, citing the need for active cross-border coordination. Apart from streamlining border crossings and improving customs and immigration processes, involved parties also need to engage and empower local communities as stakeholders along the railway route to enhance services and create more attractions.
Hong Kong’s 35th Food Expo to open on 14th August
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)’s 35th annual Food Expo is scheduled to open on 14th August, and will run until 18th August at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai. The event will be held concurrently with the ninth Beauty & Wellness Expo and the 11th Home Delights Expo. This year’s Food Expo also includes the trade-centric third Food Expo PRO as well as the 16th Hong Kong International Tea Fair which runs from 14th to 16th August. Collectively, these events will feature around 1,890 exhibitors, showcasing a diverse global gourmet foods and wines, teas, health and beauty products, and innovative home appliances, providing a one-stop sourcing and shopping experience for trade buyers and the public. At the same time, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), co-organised by the HKTDC, the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association (MCMIA), and ten research institutions from across China, will be held on 14th and 15th August, offering industry professionals the latest insights into Chinese medicine. A highlight of the Hong Kong MICE calendar At the pre-event press conference held earlier today, 7th August, HKTDC deputy executive director Sophia Chong stated: “The 35th Hong Kong Food Expo and its concurrent events are key highlights in Hong Kong’s event calendar. There are five curated theme days across the fairs, each delivering diverse experiences for visitors seeking gourmet delights, wellness, and elevated lifestyles. This year, exhibitors will present a comprehensive line up of products and special deals, complemented by interactive activities and special celebrations for the 35th Food Expo, including lucky draws and engaging games with prizes. These initiatives aim to create a memorable experience for visitors and stimulate local consumption.” The five fairs bring together exhibitors from 35 countries and regions, including first-time participants such as Brazil, Mongolia and Zimbabwe, and representatives from nine ASEAN countries highlighting diverse culinary cultures. Featuring 45 regional pavilions, the events showcase an extensive international presence, featuring provinces from Mainland China, as well as Macao, Japan, Kenya, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Poland, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Made for professionals The third Food Expo PRO opens exclusively to trade buyers for the first two days, with both public and buyers welcome on the final day on 16th August. Global exhibitors present premium food products, services, and technologies, highlighted by the new “Coffee Zone”, featuring coffee products, accessories, and machines from various countries and regions. Mainland China’s leading coffee bean producer, Yunnan Province, presents enterprises from Pu’er City showcasing Kunlu Mountain and Jinpaoshan roasted beans, alongside other specialty products. On 16th August, the Hong Kong Specialty Coffee Association is set to host a coffee cupping competition, challenging professional baristas’ taste and smell, fostering exchange among coffee enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Food Science and Technology zone will highlight health-focused and future foods tailored for the silver economy, featuring innovative products like soft-textured mooncakes and cognitive health supplements developed by local exhibitors. The Food Technology Seminar will explore the development of additive-free foods in Hong Kong and advocate for a “Clean Label” standard. More than just another cup of tea Also, the 16th Hong Kong International Tea Fair welcomes trade buyers and the public over three days, promoting tea culture through health-focused tea and tea-related activities. Visitors can sample premium teas, including Bai Hao Yin Zhen (Silver Needle Tea), mild-acidity German fruit teas, cherry blossom black tea made from Yunnan’s century-old tea trees, raw Pu-erh tea from 1,500-meter-high ancient trees, award-winning Bai Yun Chun Hao tea, Iranian black and herbal teas, Kenyan orthodox tea, antioxidant-rich Sri Lankan purple tea, paired with exquisite teaware from various regions. The fair also features innovative tea beverages, such as Hong Kong-style Yuan Yang Tea capsules, herbal wellness tea capsules, sparkling tea, kombucha champagne tea, non-alcoholic ice wine tea, and matcha beverages. The “Friends of Tea” zone offers tea-infused snacks and perfumes, blending traditional and modern tea culture. In collaboration with the Chinese Tea Culture International Exchange Association, the fair hosts the inaugural Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Youth International Tea Art Competition 2025, with the theme of “Bridging Eras in Greater Bay Area’s Tea Culture”, fostering cultural exchange among youth in Hong Kong, Macau, and Guangdong. The judging panel for the “Hong Kong International Tea Competition” will select the winners for the “Best Taste” and “Best Aroma” across six categories, with free tastings of the winning teas available to the public on 16th August. Additional event highlights include the “China & Greater Bay Area KamCha Competition 2025 (HK Milk Tea) - Hong Kong Final”, “2025 Hong Kong International Tea Culture Forum and China Tea Tourism City Brand Ceremony”, and the “International Tea Event Space Design Competition 2025.” Muslim-friendly additions Building on the introduction of halal food and beverage brands at last year’s expo, Food Expo PRO and Food Expo will host over 120 exhibitors from Mainland China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Vietnam and beyond, showcasing premium halal products and strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international food hub. A seminar on the halal food market will feature Kowloon Shangri-La, the first Hong Kong hotel to earn a Level 5 Muslim-Friendly Accommodation Certification from Crescent Rating, alongside experts discussing opportunities in the halal industry and promoting Hong Kong as a Muslim-friendly destination. In partnership with the Islamic Trust Fund of Hong Kong, the city’s recognised halal certification body, halal certification certificates will be awarded to local restaurants during the event, supporting businesses in tapping into the Islamic market.
Hong Kong Airlines to Launch Direct Flights to Lijiang
Hong Kong Airlines will launch service between Hong Kong and Lijiang three times weekly from 8 September 2025. As the sole local carrier operating this route, the airline will provide travellers with a convenient, direct link to explore this captivating ancient city in Yunnan. Located in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province, Lijiang is an important hub on the ancient Silk Road and the Tea Horse Road. With its profound historical heritage, it has long been designated as a National Historical and Cultural City of China. Its unique high-altitude plateau geography creates a pleasant, spring-like climate all year round, with autumn and spring being particularly scenic, making it a highly sought-after destination for both domestic and international tourists. Lijiang boasts a wealth of renowned attractions. Travellers can wander through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Lijiang Old Town, admiring the well-preserved Naxi architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties. Alternatively, they can visit the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and savour authentic yak meat hotpot at its base. Those who appreciate the charm of ancient towns can explore the more rustic Shuhe Ancient Town or visit Baisha Ancient Town, the oldest in the region, to admire the precious Baisha Murals while enjoying stunning views of the snow capped mountains. Furthermore, Tiger Leaping Gorge, located between Lijiang and Shangri-La, is one of the world's deepest canyons and is an unmissable highlight. Hong Kong Airlines is committed to expanding its route network to meet market demand. Following the launch of services to Hulunbuir and Xi'an, Lijiang becomes the airline's third new destination in mainland China this year. This move aligns with the company's strategy to continuously develop its mainland China network and providing travellers with more diverse travel options. The new route will be operated by Airbus A320 aircraft, while the flight schedule is designed not only to suit the needs of leisure and business travellers, but also to facilitate convenient connections for transit passengers travelling on the airline's long-haul routes, such as Sydney and Vancouver, thereby strengthening Hong Kong's position as a leading international aviation hub. Hong Kong Airlines flight schedule* between Hong Kong and Lijiang is as follows (All times local): Route Flight Number Departure Arrival Frequency HKG – LJG HX412 19:50 22:45 Mon, Wed, Fri LJG – HKG HX413 09:05 11:55 Tue, Thurs, Sat
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