Heritage or hesitate? Preserving authenticity in Hong Kong tourism

Abstract Hong Kong, the pearl of Asia, is facing the issue of losing its tourism authenticity as a result of rapid development involving tourism sites, activities and communities. This research aims to examine the planning and practices utilized in preserving authenticity in Hong Kong Tourism. The research was carried out by directly observing the heritage spots of Hong Kong, and by reviewing reports, policies and existing ordinances pertaining to heritage preservation in the SAR. The research framework was based on criteria and indicators issued by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council in relation to preserving authenticity in tourism. The research showed that the efforts made by Hong Kong to promote heritage tourism were considered high, but the efforts made to preserve the authenticity of heritage tourism were relatively low. This low level of achievement can be explained by the lack of local community support in respect of authentic tourism development. In conclusion, the unequal efforts of government in promoting authenticity as the evidence of a solid management system for protecting the SARs tangible and intangible heritage, and the absence of further action in promoting authentic tourism has affected the perceptions and attitudes of Hong Kong residents towards the development of cultural heritage.