In Haikou, Hainan, the 2025 "Haikou Cup" International Dragon Boat Invitational wrapped up over two days, bringing nearly 40 teams from across the globe to the Chinese mainland. Teams from Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines battled it out on the water, as passionate crowds cheered every stroke.
A record 219,000 spectators flocked to Haikou’s waterfront, creating a surge in local tourism and consumption. Hotels reported near-capacity bookings, restaurants ran out of signature dishes, and street vendors saw lines stretch for blocks.
"The atmosphere was electric," said Li Wei, a local café owner. "We sold twice as many beverages and snacks compared to last year’s festival. It’s a huge win for small businesses."
Beyond the racecourse, the city came alive with cultural showcases, from traditional dragon dances to pop-up art installations celebrating the island’s maritime heritage. Digital livestreams and social media highlights also helped share the excitement with global audiences, amplifying Haikou’s appeal.
Tourism officials say the event’s economic ripple extends well beyond ticket sales. Retail, transportation and hospitality sectors all experienced noticeable boosts, underscoring sports tourism as a rising growth driver on the Chinese mainland.
As organizers look ahead to the next Haikou Cup, one thing is clear: the blend of high-octane competition and local flavor has set a new standard for immersive sports tourism in Hainan.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
