Public Tours of Aircraft Carrier CNS Shandong and Escorts in Hong Kong

On Monday, Hong Kong opened public registration for tours of the CNS Shandong, China’s domestically produced aircraft carrier, along with its escort vessels. The demand was enormous, with all available tickets being snapped up within minutes on the same day they were released. Local officials have described the Shandong's inaugural trip to Hong Kong, scheduled for July 3 to 7, as a unique opportunity for residents to engage with their national pride and witness China’s industrial capabilities firsthand. The public will have the chance to explore the carrier over the weekend, gaining access to view its fighter jets and helicopters, as well as watch live training demonstrations.

With a total of 10,000 free tickets made available—comprising 2,000 for the Shandong and 8,000 for the guided-missile destroyer Zhanjiang and frigate Yuncheng—these tours are set to occur at Stonecutters Island. Tickets are distributed by time slots through the People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison's WeChat account. The first batch is released in three timeframes throughout the day, and all reservations were filled rapidly, indicating a strong interest among residents. Additional tickets are expected to be released on the following day.

Gordon Lam Chi-wing, a deputy to the National People's Congress in Hong Kong, referred to the Shandong as a symbol of technological advancement that outshines China’s first aircraft carrier, the CNS Liaoning. He pointed out its enhanced features, such as a larger hangar and advanced radar systems, which showcase the nation’s manufacturing capabilities. Lam noted that during the Liaoning's visit in 2017, tickets were claimed within three hours, and this year's rapid ticket sales reflect an unwavering enthusiasm for the country's naval fleet.

Wong Shu-ming, a local councilor, expressed that for the younger generation, the carrier serves not only as a warship but as a representation of the nation's advanced manufacturing technologies. She noted the significance of the timing, as the carrier's visit coincides with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, and labeled the naval fleet as a vital security element for Hong Kong's stability and prosperity. Wong, who managed to secure a ticket, plans to conduct community outreach and educational sessions to share the experience with those unable to attend.

Included in the visiting fleet is the Type 055 destroyer Yan'an, known for its advanced capabilities, although it will not be available for public tours. The Shandong itself, commissioned in 2019, is recognized as a substantial enhancement to China’s naval capabilities, featuring advanced structures and systems when compared to its predecessor, the Liaoning. The last occurrence of such tours took place in 2017 when the Liaoning visited to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese sovereignty, drawing long lines of eager residents for a chance to experience a piece of their nation’s military strength.