The positive impact of hosting large-scale sports events on tourism is examined in this study, focusing on the 16th Asian Games as the research subject. The Difference-in-Difference Method and Synthetic Control Method are employed to analyze the event’s influence on tourism in Guangzhou and other cities within Guangdong Province. The findings demonstrate a significant driving effect of such events on the growth of tourism in host cities over subsequent years. Moreover, it is revealed that the 16th Asian Games has a particularly pronounced impact on remote cities located far from Guangzhou, including those situated in the eastern, western, and northern regions of Guangdong Province. Consequently, this study suggests that host cities should seize opportunities by engaging in scientific planning and meticulous arrangements for large-scale events. Additionally, other cities within the province where these events take place should actively participate in enhancing their ability to serve such occasions while improving both the level and quality of their tourism services. This approach will enable them to capitalize effectively on hosting opportunities and facilitate high-quality development across all parts of the province.