The festive spirit filled the air at Hong Kong’s West Kowloon Station on Sunday as thousands of mainland visitors flocked to the city to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival. Authorities estimate that around 880,000 travelers will enter and exit the city over the holiday period, signaling a significant uptick in tourism.
The surge in visitors coincides with a three-day break in mainland China, prompting many to seize the opportunity to reunite with family or indulge in sightseeing. “We’re visiting family here, and it seems busier than I expected,” said a tourist from Beijing, navigating the longer-than-anticipated queues at clearance.
While some travelers pointed out that Hong Kong was less crowded compared to their recent trip to Macau, many anticipated a swell of visitors as the day progressed. Tourists from cities like Guangzhou and Shenzhen indicated they planned to make the trip a day affair, returning home without an overnight stay. “The festival events seem average,” one visitor remarked, highlighting a need for greater awareness of the celebrations.
Despite the relatively low initial turnout, some tourists expressed surprise at the vibrant festivities they encountered. “I didn’t know about the events happening here,” said another visitor, eager to learn more and participate.
To cater to the influx, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has set up a Visitor Information Center in the West Kowloon Station’s arrival hall, equipped with promotional materials for events like the enhanced Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance and captivating drone shows. Staff members are on hand to assist visitors, providing insights into the city’s holiday happenings.
The Shenzhen Immigration Inspection expects an average of 760,000 entries and exits daily during the festival, with today witnessing the peak travel rush. At West Kowloon Station alone, approximately 306,000 movements are projected over the three-day holiday.
As Hong Kong prepares to host its festive events, the call for increased promotion—especially through popular social media platforms in mainland China—echoes among visitors eager to fully engage in the cultural celebrations. The Mid-Autumn Festival, rich in tradition and community spirit, promises to be a memorable experience for both locals and tourists alike.
