HK braces for peak of 1,300 tourist groups on October 2

Hong Kong is anticipating a significant influx of visitors during the National Day "Golden Week," with a peak of approximately 1,200 to 1,300 tour groups expected on October 2, according to Fanny Yeung Shuk-fan, Executive Director of the Travel Industry Council.

Yeung said on Tuesday that the average daily number of group tourists is projected to reach 45,000 throughout the holiday period.

This figure represents a 10 percent increase compared to the same period last year, a growth rate she noted is consistent with the overall rise in tourist arrivals.

She pointed out that while special itineraries are not typically designed for Golden Week visitors, who may not be frequent travellers, certain attractions are expected to be major draws.

In particular, the 'Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey' exhibition is forecast to attract large crowds, she said, adding that the exhibition is also anticipated to provide a significant boost to local business.

Yeung highlighted that the numerous dining options in the nearby Kai Tak Sports Park and Kowloon City district are well-positioned to meet the anticipated surge in demand from tourists.

Furthermore, celebratory events such as the Lantern Carnival at Victoria Park and the Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance are expected to appeal to mainland tourists, as this year's National Day holiday week coincides with the Mid-Autumn Festival.

The scale of the expected influx was underscored by Chief Executive Mr. John Lee Ka-chiu, who separately estimated that around 1.54 million mainland tourists will visit Hong Kong during the eight-day holiday period.