The Hong Kong Book Fair marks its 34th edition this year, along with the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and Snack World, will be held at the Wan Chai Convention and Exhibition Centre from July 17 to 23, with approximately 760 exhibitors participating. Renowned author Yu Er, the original creator of the recent hit movie “Kowloon Walled City,” is set to share insights into the journey of creating the novel and the process of adapting it into a comic and movie format at the book fair seminar.
This year’s book fair focuses on the theme of “Literature in Film and Television,” featuring over 600 cultural activities both inside and outside the venue, including author talks, book launches, and various events to promote reading culture.
Ms. Angela Cheung, Deputy Director of the Trade Development Council, stated that this year’s book fair explores the theme “Exploring the World through Hong Kong: Lights, Camera, Words,” aiming to bring the joy of reading to more citizens and visitors, allowing them to appreciate the unique charm of Hong Kong’s film and literary culture.
Cheung also emphasized that exhibitors must adhere to Hong Kong laws, including the National Security Law and other regulations. When asked about book censorship or the creation of a banned book list, she did not directly respond, only stating that the regulations are “simple” and expressing confidence that exhibitors would understand.
The “Literary Gallery” will showcase works, scripts, awards, and movie props from the “Annual Theme Promotional Writers” including Li Min, Du Guowei, Chen Yunwen, Wong Yilin, Jiang Xiaowei, and Luo Ka. Several authors will also be present at the fair to interact with the audience. The gallery will also feature sections dedicated to “Featured Directors” and “Classic Adaptations,” showcasing works of acclaimed directors and original novels by authors like Eileen Chang and Jin Yong.
The book fair will continue to host 8 lecture series, including themes such as “Annual Theme,” “Renowned Authors,” “English and International Reading,” “World Perspectives,” “Children and Youth Reading,” “Local Cultural History,” “Lifestyle Writing,” and “Inspirational Talks,” inviting authors from around the world to share and engage with readers. One of the lectures in the “Annual Theme” series will feature Yu Er discussing the challenges and creative process behind the novel “Kowloon Walled City” and its adaptations.
The Sports and Leisure Expo will feature mosaic photo walls set up by the Hong Kong Sports Institute, showcasing photos of attendees to rally support for Hong Kong athletes preparing for the Paris Olympics. The expo will also host athlete sharing sessions with key sporting figures like the captain of the Hong Kong Dodgeball Men’s Team and former representatives in various sports.
In the “Sports Camp” section, besides popular activities like the rope course, the Hong Kong Playground Association will introduce a new parent-child rope net and zip line experience, guiding participants through different obstacles and a 15-meter zip line for a thrilling sports experience.
The “Japan Pavilion” has expanded this year to showcase the largest post-pandemic exhibit, featuring participation from the Japan National Tourism Organization and 18 cities and prefectures. The Hokkaido Pavilion will present the latest travel information and virtual reality experiences, with a special focus on the upcoming 2025 Osaka-Kansai World Expo’s theme of “Designing a Bright Future Society.”
The “Snack World” exhibition will feature over 1,200 snacks divided into six categories, offering a wide selection ranging from global snacks to nostalgic treats, healthy choices, and party delights. Nestlé, making its debut, will introduce new ice cream products and offer special promotions for attendees who present receipts from book fair or sports expo purchases.
Tickets for the Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo, and Snack World can be purchased through various electronic payment sponsors like BoC Pay, AlipayHK, Alipay, 01 Space, and Octopus Card collaboration partners, or through convenient store ticket sales. One ticket grants entry to all three exhibitions, available for sale on different ticket platforms starting today.
Adult ticket prices remain at HK$30, with a special HK$10 discount for those entering before noon using Octopus Card at the entrance gates.