The double-decker bus took Hong Kong’s athletes from Hung Hom to the Xiqu Centre at the West Kowloon Cultural District, and fans lined the streets to cheer on and capture a few snaps of their heroes.
Kelvin, an accountant, said he was most excited to see double Olympic medallist Siobhan Haughey and the bronze medal-winning table tennis team.
“I enjoyed watching them very much. Keep up the hard work and I hope next time they can get a gold medal,” he said.
He also said the timing of the parade was just right to avoid any congestion.
Joyce, a housewife who arrived early with her son, said they were overjoyed to see the athletes.
“I feel very proud of them because we have never had such success in the past,” she said. “I missed [seeing] them, because after watching the game I feel very excited… Honestly, I feel a bit depressed after the Games ended.”
But she added that the timing of the parade may have been a bit inconvenient for people who have full-time jobs.
Another spectator, Lionel, said he was able to watch the parade because it was his day off. He said it could have lasted a bit longer.
“It might be a bit too early. Everything is happening too fast. I just came here and the bus was gone,” he said.
Speaking to reporters at the Xiqu Centre, Minnie Soo – part of Hong Kong’s bronze medal-winning table tennis team – said she was touched by the fans’ support.
“Today was my first time interacting with the crowd… It was indeed a very memorable experience. A lot of people called out for us, asking us to keep up the effort and we feel very touched by their support,” she said.
Hong Kong’s Olympians won six medals at the Tokyo Games – one gold, two silver and three bronze medals.