The "Golden Week" holiday kicked off yesterday (May 1), drawing large crowds of visitors to Hong Kong and revitalizing the city's tourism scene. As of today, HK has welcomed approximately 265,000 visitors, representing a 27% year-on-year increase, according to the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law.
Among these, 222,000 visitors were from the Mainland, marking a 22% rise compared to the same period last year. Overseas visitor numbers saw an even more significant jump of 50%, reaching around 45,000. These figures highlight the effectiveness of the government's promotional efforts targeting both domestic and international audiences.
Law noted that around 260 tour groups from the Mainland arrived yesterday, with 75% of them staying overnight in HK. She emphasized that order has been maintained despite the surge in visitors. Popular tourist destinations, such as the High Island Reservoir East Dam in Sai Kung, experienced high foot traffic, but increased minibus services and passenger capacity ensured a smooth flow. Some visitors opted for off-peak travel, enhancing their overall experience.
Looking ahead, HK is set to host various festive activities, including the Cheung Chau Bun Festival and Bun Scrambling Competition, offering visitors unique cultural experiences during the holiday season.
When asked about the trend of mainland tourists choosing camping and hiking over traditional sightseeing, Law acknowledged the global shift in consumer behavior post-pandemic. She emphasized that HK welcomes all types of tourists, whether they prefer simple or in-depth travel, regardless of their budget or length of stay. He encouraged local businesses to innovate and adapt to attract more spending from tourists.
Regarding the possibility of adding tourism facilities in country parks, Law stated that while HK values enhancing visitor experiences through simple infrastructure improvements, large-scale developments, such as catering services, would require further discussion. She also encouraged both locals and tourists to appreciate the natural beauty of HK's hiking trails, focusing on experiences beyond consumption.
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