At Kennedy Town’s elevated basketball court, Mandarin-speaking tourists in their 20s and 30s flock to capture photos of Belcher Bay against a backdrop of surrounding buildings. This trend of “special forces-style travel” – a fast-paced, budget-conscious approach – is reshaping Hong Kong's post-pandemic tourism, particularly among younger mainland Chinese visitors who now dominate the city’s tourist profile. Although Hong Kong aims to boost tourism with a substantial budget and new campaigns, challenges persist due to competition from regional destinations, high living costs, and a strong local currency. Local businesses are adapting by offering more affordable options and tailored experiences, while the government and tourism authorities are focusing on high-profile events and improving service standards to attract and retain tourists.