Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The interdepartmental working group on festival arrangements, led by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, today (February 24) announced that the nine-day Chinese New Year Golden Week of the Mainland (February 15 to 23) concluded smoothly yesterday. According to the Immigration Department (ImmD), around 1.77 million visitors arrived in Hong Kong over the Golden Week, representing an increase of 14 per cent over the same period last year. Mainland inbound visitors accounted for around 1.5 million, representing an increase of 14 per cent. The number of non-Mainland inbound visitors was around 270 000, also representing an increase of 14 per cent.
Mr Chan said, “During this Chinese New Year Golden Week, Hong Kong was filled with a festive atmosphere, with residents and visitors alike participating in a wide array of celebratory activities, including the Cathay International Chinese New Year Night Parade on the first day of the Chinese New Year, the fireworks display on the second day, the Chinese New Year Raceday on the third day, and the Chinese New Year Cup football match on the fifth day. These diverse and enriching events were well received by both residents and visitors, not only creating a joyous atmosphere throughout the city but also effectively attracting crowds, stimulating consumption, and bringing opportunities to various industries such as retail, catering and tourism, showcasing Hong Kong’s vibrant and welcoming metropolitan charm.”
During the nine-day Chinese New Year Golden Week, the daily average of Mainland visitors was around 170 000. The arrival of Mainland visitors peaked on February 18 (the second day of Chinese New Year) with around 210 000 Mainland visitors arriving in Hong Kong. During the Golden Week, the Express Rail Link West Kowloon Control Point received the highest number of Mainland visitors, followed by the Lok Ma Chau Spur Line Control Point.