Kai Tai in Hong Kong: A Place of Transformation by Lum Yui Hei

In 1988, the area around Kai Tak Airport was filled with high-rise buildings.

Kai Tai has a long and fascinating history in Hong Kong. Once upon a time, Kai Tak Airport was the heart of this area. The Kai Tak Airport was not just an ordinary airport, it was a symbol of Hong Kong's connection to the global community.

In 1992, airplanes took off and landed at Kai Tak Airport, flying over the city centre.

For many years, planes from all over the world landed and took off from Kai Tak. It was a busy place with the roar of engines and the hustle and bustle of travelers. People would come to the airport to start their adventures abroad or to welcome their loved ones back home. The airport had its unique features, like the thrilling approach over the city's buildings, which made it quite famous among aviation enthusiasts.

However, as the city grew and the needs of air travel changed, Kai Tak Airport finally closed its doors. But this was not the end for Kai Tai. Instead, it was the beginning of a new and exciting chapter.

The Kai Tai Sports Park was born on the site of the old airport. This sports park is a wonderland for people of all ages. It covers a vast area of about 28 hectares, which is like a huge playground.

The main stadium in the Kai Tai Sports Park is a marvel. It can seat up to 50,000 spectators. Its design is inspired by the "Pearl of the Orient" concept. With a large retractable roof, it can host a variety of events. Whether it's a big international football match or a spectacular concert, this stadium is up for the task.

There is also a Kai Tai Indoor Sports Hall. This hall can accommodate 10,000 people and is very versatile. It can be used for different sports like basketball, badminton, and gymnastics. The floor can be adjusted according to the needs of different sports, which is really cool.

The Kai Tai Youth Stadium is another great part of the park. With 5,000 seats, it's perfect for smaller-scale sports events, like school football or rugby matches. It also serves as a great training ground for young athletes.

In addition to these sports facilities, the Kai Tai Sports Park has a lot of other attractions. There are areas for people to do some fitness activities like climbing walls and beach volleyball courts. There is also a large retail area that covers about 65,000 square meters. It's a shopping paradise for sports lovers, with many well- known sports brands and also places to buy food and drinks.

The Kai Tai Sports Park has truly transformed Kai Tai from an area associated with an old airport into a vibrant place full of sports, entertainment, and fun. It has become a new landmark in Hong Kong, attracting people from all over the city and even from other places to come and enjoy the various facilities and events. It's a place that not only promotes sports but also brings the community together, just like how Kai Tak Airport once brought the world to Hong Kong.