The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) experienced a surge in visitor arrivals during the Lunar New Year holidays, from Saturday to Tuesday (February 10 to 13), with an impressive total of 750,000 visitors. Notably, the majority, comprising 650,000 visitors, arrived from mainland China, surpassing the figures recorded during the same period in 2018 when 640,000 mainland visitors flocked to Hong Kong.

Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Kevin Yeung Yung-hung, expressed satisfaction with the success of various events that contributed to the festive atmosphere. The city witnessed a vibrant night parade to kick off the Lunar New Year, followed by a spectacular fireworks display on the second day, an exciting horse race on the third day, and a well-received soccer match on the fourth day. These events not only entertained visitors but also heightened the celebratory spirit throughout Hong Kong.

Approximately 1,200 mainland inbound tour groups, totaling 40,500 visitors, explored Hong Kong during these four days. These figures exceeded those recorded during the mainland’s Lunar New Year Golden Weeks before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall hotel occupancy rate during this period reached an impressive 90 percent, indicating a robust influx of visitors to the city.

The Hong Kong government, in collaboration with relevant organizations and the trade, remains committed to attracting and receiving visitors. As the mainland’s Lunar New Year Golden Week continues, efforts will focus on creating memorable travel experiences for those exploring the vibrant city. The positive reception during the recent festivities bodes well for Hong Kong's tourism industry as it recovers from the challenges posed by the pandemic.

BOB Post