CCTV9英语新闻：Ocean Park steps up efforts to lure visitors

Hong Kong's tourism market is struggling, with the number of visitors from the mainland on the decline. Now Ocean Park, one of Hong Kong’s top attractions, is stepping up efforts to lure more in. But they're not just focusing on the Mainland, but tourists from all around Asia.  

Ocean Park has long been one of Hong Kong's star tourist attractions. But it has seen a 14 percent dip in visitors over the past year. In 2014, Ocean Park saw a total of 7.8 million visits – the highest yearly number ever recorded. But in 2015 ticket sales slumped by over a million, to 6.7 million visitors.

The resort puts this down to a drop in mainland tourists coming to Hong Kong. Last year, mainland visitors to the park fell by 20 to 30 percent.

The drop came after the number of mainland visitors to Hong Kong fell 3 per cent last year, amid a strong Hong Kong dollar and slower economic growth on the mainland. The challenge now facing attractions like Ocean Park, is how to stay competitive amid a city-wide tourism slump.

Combining rides, entertainment, a zoo and an aquarium, Ocean Park is one of the most popular theme parks in Asia, and even the world. It now offers free Wi-fi and more interactive exhibits and games to ensure visitors the best experience.

"It’s my second time here. The park is very clean and orderely. I will bring my kid here next time."

"The environment and service here is first-class. Staff are very kind. It’s my first time here. It’s so wonderful," said the Mainland tourist.

Mainland visitors account for 50 percent of tickets sold, while local visitors- who have had many promotions targeted towards them this year- make up around 30 to 35 percent. And there's been also a rise in Southeast Asian visitors. 

"It’s a famous place to visit in Hong Kong. So we have to come," said Satrio, an Indonesian tourist.

It’s noticeable that India – Asia’s third-largest economy – has become Ocean Park’s next target, with visitors from the country seeing 30 per cent year-on-year growth. Compared with mainland tour groups, foreign visitors tend to stay longer in the park, which means greater consumption.

"We will continue our promotions on the Chinese mainland, as it’s still the biggest market. Meanwhile, we want to attract more visitors from some other Asian countries. South Korea and India are likely to be our next source of guests," said S.C. Matthias Li, Deputy Chief Executive of Ocean Park.

A new subway line is expected to reach the park at the end of this year. And with a new hotel and a water park being unveiled in the near future, the park is expected to become a brand-new resort area.