Hong Kong Records Unprecedented 10% Growth in Holiday Visitors with Over Four Hundred Thousand Inbound Journeys, Cementing Its Reputation as a Leading Global Travel Destination

Published on December 27, 2025

Hong Kong has seen a remarkable 10% increase in visitor numbers during the Christmas period, with over four hundred thousand inbound trips recorded, solidifying its position as a top global travel destination. This surge, fueled by both mainland Chinese and international visitors, highlights the city’s appeal as a holiday hotspot, even amidst global uncertainties. The influx of travelers underscores Hong Kong’s strong recovery in tourism, demonstrating its ability to attract visitors from key markets such as mainland China, Southeast Asia, and Japan, while showcasing its continued resilience in the face of challenges.

Hong Kong saw a significant surge in tourism during the Christmas period in 2025, with official data showing a 10% increase in visitors compared to the previous year. From December 24 to 26, the region recorded nearly 404,600 inbound trips, reinforcing its growing popularity as a holiday destination. This uptick was largely driven by visitors from mainland China, as well as a strong rise in international arrivals, signaling a positive recovery for the city’s tourism sector.

According to the Hong Kong Immigration Department, of the 404,559 inbound trips, 261,526 were from mainland China, marking a 6% increase from 2024. This highlights the sustained demand for travel to Hong Kong from its closest neighbor. Non-mainland visitors made up 143,033 of the total, representing a 16% year-on-year growth. This surge reflects the global appeal of Hong Kong, as international travelers continue to return despite the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic and global uncertainties.

Hong Kong’s tourism recovery is also evident in its outbound travel statistics. Local residents took nearly 1.7 million outbound trips during the same period, a notable 22% increase from the previous year. This surge in travel underscores the growing confidence among Hong Kong residents in their region’s recovery and their eagerness to explore destinations abroad. Nearly 90% of these outbound trips were made to mainland China, further demonstrating the strength of cross-border ties.

Among the most popular border crossings for outbound travelers were Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau Spur Line, both of which saw significant increases in traffic. Lo Wu experienced 352,030 crossings, a 17% rise from 2024, while Lok Ma Chau Spur Line saw 309,575 crossings, an increase of 12%. These busy border points underscore the strong demand for travel to and from mainland China during the holiday period. Air travel also saw a notable increase, with 171,120 outbound flights recorded, marking a 14% rise compared to the same period last year.

Despite these positive figures, there are concerns within Hong Kong’s retail sector about the potential impact of the absence of New Year’s fireworks on the local economy. The absence of this beloved event could dampen visitor numbers in the days following Christmas and reduce local consumption. The retail market is still reeling from the aftermath of the tragic fire in Tai Po, which has affected public sentiment and consumer behavior. Retailers worry that the absence of such an iconic event could further stifle both tourism and local spending during this critical period.

Cross-border travel at key checkpoints also faced some congestion, especially at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge on Christmas Day. Travelers reported long queues and delays, with some waiting up to 90 minutes to board the cross-border Gold Bus. This delay highlights the high demand for travel during the holiday season, with many travelers seeking to visit family and friends across the region.

In addition to the surge in mainland Chinese visitors, Hong Kong also saw a boost in arrivals from Southeast Asia and Japan. These regions have become increasingly important sources of tourism, helping to diversify Hong Kong’s visitor base. The city’s strategic location as a hub for both business and leisure travelers has contributed to this growth, reinforcing its status as one of Asia’s premier travel destinations.

This surge in both inbound and outbound travel paints a positive picture for Hong Kong’s tourism industry. The city has successfully capitalized on its unique position as a cultural and economic crossroads, attracting travelers from around the globe. With the increase in visitor numbers, Hong Kong is set to continue its path toward recovery, further solidifying its reputation as a dynamic and vibrant global destination.

However, as Hong Kong looks ahead to the remainder of the holiday season, the local economy remains vulnerable to external factors. The retail sector, in particular, is cautious, as the absence of major events like the New Year’s fireworks could affect both tourism numbers and consumer sentiment. Furthermore, the ongoing challenges posed by public safety concerns and political instability may continue to influence the broader tourism landscape.

Hong Kong experienced a 10% rise in visitor numbers during Christmas, with over four hundred thousand inbound trips, cementing its status as a premier global travel destination. This surge reflects the city’s successful recovery, attracting visitors from mainland China, Southeast Asia, and Japan.

In conclusion, while Hong Kong has made significant strides in boosting tourism during the Christmas period, the city’s path to full recovery remains contingent on the continued appeal of its attractions and the ability to navigate emerging challenges. The increase in both inbound and outbound travel reflects a growing confidence in the region’s recovery, but much depends on the broader global and local dynamics shaping the tourism and retail markets in the coming months. As the city welcomes more international visitors and local residents continue to travel, Hong Kong’s tourism sector remains an essential part of its economic revitalization.