China's 15th National Games is fueling tourism in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), as visitors are there not only for the sports but are also exploring the cities.

For some competing teams, their event tickets also grant them access to the parks, harbors and iconic landmarks in Shenzhen, Guangdong, where competition days become a several-day tour.

"We're here to watch the National Games in Shenzhen, where we'll visit Lotus Mountain Park, Happy Harbor, and the Eye of the Greater Bay Area. As Guangdong is one of the host cities of the Games, we're very proud and welcome everyone to join us in the Greater Bay Area for the events," said Lai Xiaoheng, a tourist from Guangzhou, the provincial capital of Guangdong.

For the first time, Guangdong Province, the Hong Kong and the Macao special administrative regions have teamed up to host the National Games, and the excitement is palpable as tickets for many popular events sold out within seconds.

"Driven by sports-themed tour groups, the number of travel packages in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is expected to increase by about 30 percent in November 2025 compared to the previous year,"said Guan Jian, director of Communications, GZL International Travel Service.

From scenic spots to local hotels and restaurants, the Games are driving a surge in dining and spending.

"During the National Games, our restaurant has seen a 30 percent increase in customer flow. The event has attracted many new visitors from across the country and beyond to Happy Harbor, and we are thrilled to be one of the main businesses benefiting from this surge," said Xu Hailun, founder of the Lounge Bridge.

"The National Games are providing a major boost to our region's tourism and hospitality industry. For our hotel, this has translated into an 18 percent year-on-year occupancy increase during the event period, with our most popular rooms often selling out on key weekends," said Ye Changlin, president of Skytel Shenzhen Shekou.

The National Games is China's largest multi-sport event. Running from Nov 9 to 21, The 15th National Games have attracted over 14,000 elite athletes from across the nation. Shenzhen will host the closing ceremony of the Games.