HK records 11pc tourism growth during Dragon Boat Festival weekend

Hong Kong welcomed approximately 460,000 visitors during the three-day Dragon Boat Festival long weekend, marking an 11 percent increase from the previous year. The data was provided by the cross-departmental task force on festive arrangements, led by the

Chief Secretary for Administration, Eric Chan Kwok-ki.

Mainland Chinese tourists made up nearly 80 percent of the total arrivals, with about 360,000 visitors, reflecting a 10 percent annual increase. The number of tourists from outside the mainland also saw a significant rise, reaching 94,000, which is a 14 percent increase compared to last year.

Chan highlighted the successful integration of cultural and tourism initiatives, noting that these efforts allowed both visitors and residents to immerse themselves in Hong Kong’s distinctive festive atmosphere.

The Dragon Boat Festival celebrations were a major highlight across the city. Features included a dedicated Dragon Boat Food Street and themed photo installations along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. Traditional dragon boat races took place in multiple districts, while Tai O continued its centuries-old Dragon Boat Water Parade tradition.

Additionally, the opening ceremony of the Hong Kong Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) Month was held at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui, accompanied by a public carnival that celebrated local traditions.

Tourist interest was particularly strong in the newly opened "Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey" Movie Set Exhibition, which demonstrated a successful synergy between Hong Kong’s cinematic legacy and tourism development.

The administration chief emphasized these diverse activities collectively showcased Hong Kong’s unique fusion of traditional customs, artistic heritage, and culinary culture during the holiday period.