Hong Kong Sees Surge in Tourist Arrivals as Festive Season Approaches, Get the Details Here

Published on December 21, 2025

With the approaching festive season, Hong Kong is recording a huge number of tourist visits with more than 235,000 tourists on one single day. The increased number of tourists not only showcases the popularity of Hong Kong among tourists but also emphasizes that Hong Kong is one of the best tourist destinations. The Hong Kong government, through the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau, has registered remarkable statistics showing the rebound of Hong Kong’s tourism industry following the ease in pandemic restrictions.

Record Tourist Numbers Signal Strong Holiday Season

On Saturday, December 20, 2025, Hong Kong saw a remarkable 235,586 visitors, with mainland Chinese tourists making up the majority of these numbers. More than 187,000 of these visitors came from the mainland, the highest number recorded since the National Day Golden Week holiday earlier in the year. This significant uptick in mainland Chinese tourists comes as no surprise, as travel between Hong Kong and mainland China has been steadily recovering, and the city remains a preferred destination for mainland families during the holiday season.

In addition to the influx of mainland tourists, Hong Kong also saw strong interest from non-mainland visitors. Nearly 48,000 non-mainland travelers visited the city, marking the highest single-day total for international tourists in 2025. This is the second-highest non-mainland visitor number since the pandemic, further demonstrating Hong Kong’s appeal as an international destination.

Hong Kong’s Appeal as a Family-Friendly Destination

The government emphasized that these rising tourist numbers indicate that Hong Kong is not only popular for short vacations but is also becoming a top destination for family travel. Many mainland Chinese visitors come to Hong Kong to visit family members or enjoy the city’s diverse offerings, from its iconic theme parks like Hong Kong Disneyland to its numerous shopping centers and cultural attractions.

Hong Kong has long been a hub for family-friendly activities, offering a combination of entertainment, culture, and education, all within close proximity. As the city continues to open up after pandemic-related restrictions, the surge in family visits is expected to continue, particularly during peak travel times like the Christmas and New Year holidays.

Cruise Tourism Boosts Hong Kong’s Attractions

Cruise tourism also played a significant role in the city’s recent tourism boost. On Friday, December 19, 2025, two cruise ships visited the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, bringing additional tourists to the city. Hong Kong’s cruise terminals are vital entry points for international visitors, and the return of cruise ships further enhances the city’s role as a global tourism hub.

Cruise visitors typically stay for a shorter time but contribute significantly to local tourism spending, particularly in areas like shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. With cruise tourism picking up again, Hong Kong is well-positioned to attract more high-spending tourists during the holiday season and beyond.

Vibrant Holiday Events Draw Visitors to Central and Kowloon

In addition to the influx of tourists, Hong Kong is also attracting visitors with its festive events, which are adding to the city’s appeal during the holiday season. Central, the city’s bustling commercial and entertainment district, is home to a variety of seasonal events, including light displays, Christmas markets, and performances. These events are aimed at creating a festive atmosphere and providing entertainment for both locals and visitors alike.

The West Kowloon Cultural District, another popular area in Hong Kong, is also hosting a series of cultural performances and art exhibitions. These events not only draw tourists looking for a festive experience but also serve as a platform to showcase Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage. The combination of seasonal events and cultural activities is positioning Hong Kong as an attractive destination for international travelers looking to immerse themselves in local traditions and festive celebrations.

The Economic Impact of Tourism Recovery

The surge in tourist arrivals is providing a much-needed boost to Hong Kong’s economy, particularly the hospitality and retail sectors. Hotels, restaurants, and shops are benefiting from the influx of visitors, with many businesses reporting a strong recovery in sales and bookings. The tourism sector, which was severely impacted by the pandemic, is now seeing a positive trend, with local businesses adapting to meet the needs of tourists while maintaining high standards of health and safety.

The government’s efforts to revitalize the tourism sector through targeted promotions, events, and infrastructure improvements are paying off. As more international tourists return to the city, Hong Kong is likely to see continued growth in its tourism industry, contributing to the overall economic recovery in the post-pandemic era.

Preparing for the Future of Tourism in Hong Kong

Looking ahead, the government is focused on continuing to attract both international and domestic tourists to Hong Kong. The city’s robust infrastructure, world-class attractions, and rich cultural offerings make it a compelling destination for travelers from around the world. The recent uptick in tourism is just the beginning, and the city’s tourism strategy is focused on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.

One key aspect of Hong Kong’s tourism future is its ability to offer a unique experience for tourists year-round, beyond just the holiday season. By leveraging its position as a gateway between the East and West, the city plans to diversify its tourism offerings and provide more options for visitors, from eco-tourism to luxury travel experiences.

Hong Kong’s Resilient Tourism Sector Shines This Festive Season

Hong Kong is also witnessing a remarkable revival in tourism as it readies for the approaching festival season, with staggering local and foreign tourists pouring in. Beginning with cruise liners docking at Kai Tak to festivals at Central and Kowloon, Hong Kong is celebrating its vibrant culture and festivals, thus making it a favorite tourist spot. A reviving Hong Kong, struggling back to normal after the influence of the pandemic, is expected to witness a flourishing tourism industry, significantly contributing towards the economy and re-establishing it as a premier tourist destination across the globe.