Hong Kong’s tourism sector is showing robust signs of recovery, with a significant uptick in both domestic and international visitors during the Labour Day Golden Week, government officials reported Friday.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law announced that the city has welcomed 265,000 tourists since the holiday’s start on Thursday, marking a substantial 25 percent increase compared to the same period last year.
Of particular note, international tourism has seen a dramatic resurgence, with 43,000 non-mainland visitors — a 50 percent jump from previous years. This surge reflects the city’s strategic efforts to reinvigorate its tourism industry following years of pandemic-related restrictions.
“This demonstrates the effectiveness of our targeted promotional campaigns,” Law told reporters, highlighting the city’s appeal to both mainland Chinese and international travelers.
The tourism data reveals promising trends, with 260 mainland tour groups entering Hong Kong on Thursday, and an impressive 75 percent choosing to stay overnight. This overnight stay pattern is particularly encouraging for local hospitality businesses.
Immigration Department figures further underscore the travel momentum, recording 540,000 arrivals and 480,000 departures on Thursday alone.
Popular destinations like the High Island Reservoir East Dam in Sai Kung witnessed significant visitor traffic, with Law noting the orderly movement of tourists.
The surge suggests Hong Kong is steadily rebuilding its reputation as a premier global tourism destination.
