For both sevens players and punters, there are big tournaments, and then there’s Hong Kong. Celebrating its fiftieth anniversary in 2026, this is the place where the sport feels louder, looser and more alive than anywhere else on the calendar.
For Australia’s co-captain, Henry Hutchison, it is also where some of his fondest rugby memories live.
“Honestly, it’s pretty magical,” says the three-time Olympian. “Hong Kong is the heartbeat of Rugby Sevens around the world.”
From the moment teams land, the city seems to operate on a different frequency. “The entire week has this constant buzz, like the whole city knows the Sevens is in town.”
The pressure is at its absolute peak and every team lifts to meet the moment. Understandably, the standard follows. “It’s where I hold some of my most cherished rugby memories and achievements,” Henry says. “There’s nowhere else quite like it.”
For spectators, that same energy comes at a cost. Three days in Kai Tak Stadium can leave even the hardiest fans feeling hollowed out. Hutchison laughs when asked about pacing yourself. “Hong Kong might be the one tournament where the spectators are in for a more physically draining weekend than the players.”
He’s seen it first-hand. “I’ve had plenty of mates fly over for the Sevens and leave absolutely broken.” His advice mirrors how teams approach the tournament itself. “The key is energy and morale. Lean on each other each day. The tournament isn’t won on day one, so pace yourself, pick your moments, and make sure you’re still firing at the business end of the weekend.”
When the boots come off, Hutchison wastes no time tapping into the city itself. His first stop is non-negotiable. “I’d head straight to Kau Kee Noodles for lunch. In my opinion, it’s the best noodle spot in the city.” The order is just as clear. “Don’t overthink it. Order the beef noodles.”
A perfect off-duty day starts with coffee by the specialists at EN – perfect for those looking to get some adventurous flavours out of their morning brew. Once adequately caffeinated, Hutchison likes to wander down Shin Hing Street, where a group of elderly locals have been meeting daily for more than a decade to play jianzi.
“You can sit and watch to decompress,” he says, “or, if you’re brave enough, ask to join in.” Be warned. “They’re incredibly competitive and take no prisoners. Trust me.”
From there it’s an easy drift down Gough Street, popping in and out of local stores. Evening brings a night-time harbour cruise for the light show, before finishing with a nightcap at Ella, one of Hong Kong’s best speakeasy bars.
After dark during Sevens weekend, the gravitational pull to Lan Kwai Fong is strong. The party strip fills quickly, especially on Sunday night. “The entire crowd tends to roll in,” Hutchison says. “Sunday night is next level, with most teams heading there to blow off some steam.” For those pushing deeper into the night, Wan Chai offers similar energy, just “a bit more intense”.
When it comes to rest and recovery, Hutchison keeps things simple. “I’ve only ever stayed at the Kerry Hotel, but it’s exceptional. Harbour views, a short ferry to the island, and the food is second to none.” For a breath of fresh air, he recommends escaping the city to Sir Cecil’s Ride on Braemar Hill, a steep hike that opens up to some breathtaking views. Those with time on their side might consider a day at the Happy Valley Racecourse is unforgettable, both for the spectacle and the serious stakes.
Despite the chaos, Hutchison manages to remain consistent with his weekend preparations. “My process stays exactly the same. I know it prepares my body and mind to perform at a high level, no matter the occasion.” In Hong Kong, that consistency is the key to enjoying the tournament to its fullest. Pace yourself, stay present, and embrace the city – from the buzz of the stadium to the quiet sunrise over the harbour – because there really is nowhere else quite like it.
Kick off your Hong Kong Sevens experience by securing packages with Cathay Pacific below.
This article is presented in association with Hong Kong Tourism Board. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Boss Hunting.
