Hong Kong Ranks Second for its International Arrivals in this Year with More than Twenty Million Visitors, Signaling a Strong Recovery in Global Tourism

Published on December 9, 2025

By 2025, Hong Kong has truly positioned itself as one of the most appealing destinations in the world, coming second globally in international arrivals, with an estimated 23.2 million visitors. This impressive surge in tourism reflects the city’s strong recovery and revitalization following years of disruptions. Hong Kong’s resurgence is driven by its dynamic tourism infrastructure, strategic location as a gateway to Greater China, and its vibrant events and retail tourism offerings. Its strong showing in Euromonitor International’s Top 100 City Destinations Index further underlines its global tourism prominence.

The fact that Hong Kong surged into second place in international arrivals, closely following Bangkok-expected to attract 30.3 million visitors-showcases that its appeal extends beyond business to cultural, shopping, and historical tourism. The city’s place at the summit of destinations is underlined by its high level of connectivity, allowing access to a wide variety of markets throughout Asia and beyond.

Key Drivers of Hong Kong’s Tourism Success

Several factors contribute to Hong Kong’s tourism success in 2025. Firstly, the city’s strong connectivity via its world-class airports and transportation networks continues to be a major asset. The recent improvements in airport capacity and infrastructure are designed to accommodate growing passenger numbers. Hong Kong International Airport remains a major hub for international flights, linking the city to key cities across Asia and the world.

Secondly, Hong Kong is experiencing a boom in events tourism. The city is renowned for its global events, ranging from shopping festivals to cultural celebrations. The Hong Kong Arts Festival and Hong Kong Sevens Rugby are just a few examples of the city’s ability to attract large international crowds. These events, combined with a robust retail sector, position Hong Kong as a major retail-led tourism destination.

Moreover, the city’s tourism appeal is bolstered by its iconic landmarks, such as Victoria Peak, Hong Kong Disneyland, and the Star Ferry, which continue to captivate travelers. These attractions, alongside the city’s world-class dining and entertainment offerings, ensure a diverse and unforgettable experience for visitors.

Hong Kong’s Role as a Gateway to Greater China

A significant factor in Hong Kong’s continued appeal as a tourism hub is its strategic position as a gateway to Greater China. Many international visitors use Hong Kong as a base for exploring mainland China, benefiting from the city’s seamless transport links to major cities like Shenzhen, Guangzhou, and Macau. The One Country, Two Systems framework allows Hong Kong to maintain its distinct international character while serving as an entry point for travelers looking to explore the broader Chinese market.

Additionally, Hong Kong’s status as an international financial center draws a significant number of business travelers, many of whom extend their stay to explore the city’s cultural and tourist offerings. This unique blend of business and leisure tourism gives the city a competitive edge in attracting a diverse range of visitors from across the globe.

Hong Kong’s Focus on Sustainability and Responsible Tourism

As global tourism trends shift towards sustainability, Hong Kong has been actively positioning itself as a responsible tourism destination. The city has made significant strides in promoting sustainable tourism practices, particularly in its transportation systems and tourism infrastructure. This includes initiatives to reduce carbon footprints, enhance green spaces, and promote eco-friendly travel options.

Moreover, Hong Kong is taking proactive steps to address the challenges of overtourism by focusing on tourism management that prioritizes the well-being of local communities and the environment. The tourism authorities are increasingly encouraging travelers to engage in responsible travel, with a focus on respecting local cultures and reducing the environmental impact of mass tourism.

Impact of Events and Retail Tourism on Hong Kong’s Recovery

A major catalyst for Hong Kong’s tourism rebound is the city’s vibrant event scene and retail sector. In 2025, Hong Kong is set to host several international festivals and cultural events that attract millions of tourists. The city’s shopping festivals, such as the annual Hong Kong Shopping Festival, draw visitors from around the world, especially from Mainland China and Southeast Asia. Retail therapy in the city’s luxury malls and bustling street markets continues to be a major draw for international visitors seeking both high-end and unique shopping experiences.

The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has also ramped up efforts to market the city as an all-year-round destination, with promotions and events designed to attract both leisure travelers and business visitors. This strategy aims to ensure that the city remains competitive in the face of challenges posed by other Asian tourism giants like Singapore and Tokyo.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead for Hong Kong’s Tourism

Despite its strong recovery, Hong Kong faces ongoing challenges, particularly with regards to tourism policy, safety, and sustainability. Like many major global cities, Hong Kong must balance the need for economic growth through tourism with the goal of managing environmental impact and improving community engagement. This requires continued innovation in tourism management and a shift towards value-driven tourism, focusing on quality rather than just volume.

One of the opportunities Hong Kong can capitalize on is the growing trend of experiential travel, with tourists increasingly seeking authentic and immersive experiences. This trend aligns well with Hong Kong’s rich cultural history, vibrant local arts scene, and unique blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Hong Kong’s Bright Future as a Tourism Powerhouse

Hong Kong’s tourism recovery is one of the most uplifting stories of 2025, with the city firmly sealing its position as one of the leading destinations in the world. Its high international arrivals, coupled with a focus on sustainability, experiential tourism, and retail-driven growth, signal a bright future for the city. As Hong Kong continues to reinvent and adapt to travel trends that are ever-changing, it should be in a better place to maintain its position among the most dynamic tourism destinations not only in Asia but also globally. With a combination of robust infrastructure, vibrant cultural offerings, and sustainable tourism practices, Hong Kong is bound to remain a global tourism powerhouse for years to come.