Hong Kong residents flocked to the Ngong Shuen Chau Naval Base for a second day on Thursday to tour two People’s Liberation Army vessels, saying the event gave them a rare chance to see the country’s military up close.

The vessels – training ship Qi Jiguang and landing ship Yimengshan – arrived on Tuesday for a port call.

A military enthusiast said he was pleased to board the ships.

“It feels great. I hope more different naval vessels can visit Hong Kong in the future so the public can see a wider variety,” he said.

Cadet Luo Jiayi from Guangdong said the warm response from Hongkongers gave him a strong sense of connection.

“It feels like being with family. Over the past two days, every time I spoke Cantonese with visitors they were surprised, and it felt like chatting at a family gathering – a real two-way exchange,” he said.

Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law said it was her first time stepping onto a PLA warship.

“Since the military parade in Beijing last month, we know that our country loves peace, but our military power needs to be strong so others won’t dare to invade us. So this visit to the PLA ship makes me feel the power as a Chinese,” she said.

The ships will depart on Friday for exchanges in Cambodia, Thailand and Singapore.