The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region has welcomed over 29.5 million visitors in the first eight months of this year, marking 43.7 percent year-on-year growth, the Hong Kong Tourism Board announced on Wednesday.
August alone saw nearly 4.5 million arrivals, up 9.2 percent from the corresponding period in 2023, with half of them opting to stay in the city overnight, the board said.
The number of visitors from the Chinese mainland accounted for 22.94 million, reflecting a 38.9 percent year-on-year surge. Visitors from other places numbered 6.58 million, a 63.5 percent increase compared with the same period last year.
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The city announced earlier that it will host over 400 celebratory events to mark the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, which falls on Oct 1, including fireworks displays, half-price movie tickets, and free access to government recreational facilities.
A horse-themed drone show, featuring Hong Kong scenes and Chinese ink horse paintings by artist Xu Beihong, will take place above Wan Chai on Sep 28.
A special National Day edition of “A Symphony of Lights”, a light and sound show held around Victoria Harbour, will illuminate the city’s skyline in October. The special version will feature enhanced lighting effects and congratulatory messages for National Day displayed on harbor side buildings.
From Saturday to Nov 30, over 750 merchants in Yau Tsim Mong District will offer 25 percent discounts on goods and dining.
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Hong Kong received 34 million visitors in 2023. The HKTB projected that the city would record a total of 46 million visitors this year, reflecting a 40 percent year-on-year surge.
