Golden Week ends with mainland tourists Savoring Hong Kong’s festive charm

As the eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, Hong Kong’s festive spirit remained vibrant, with mainland tourists flocking to shopping malls and cultural hotspots. 

A visit to a Kwun Tong mall revealed a bustling Hong Kong-themed market in the atrium, drawing crowds to its Mid-Autumn-themed decorations inspired by traditional cha chaan teng diners. 

Shops and restaurants offered special holiday discounts, attracting both locals and visitors, many of whom paused to take photos and soak in the festive atmosphere, heightened by the public holiday following Mid-Autumn Festival.

A family of four from Guangdong, visiting Hong Kong for the first time during Mid-Autumn, was captivated by the city’s lively ambiance. 

They spent the previous evening moon-gazing in Tsim Sha Tsui and West Kowloon, enjoying the urban energy distinct from their hometown. 

The family raved about Hong Kong’s roast meats, particularly the crispy-skinned roast pork, char siu, and roast goose, which they found superior to Guangdong’s offerings, expressing eagerness to return for more culinary delights.

A Shenzhen visitor, in Hong Kong for a three-day family visit, planned to stay until tomorrow. 

She noted similarities between Hong Kong and Shenzhen’s large shopping malls but found Hong Kong’s clothing pricier yet of higher quality. 

She enjoyed the unique flavors of Hong Kong’s dim sum and morning tea, planning to shop for skincare and cosmetics before heading back. Her experience highlighted the city’s appeal as a shopping and dining destination for short-term visitors.

A couple from Fujian, frequent visitors to Hong Kong due to their daughter’s residency in the city, stayed for a week, exploring attractions like the Avenue of Stars and Ocean Park, where they photographed pandas and dolphins. 

They praised Hong Kong’s food for its freshness and authenticity, contrasting it with the mainland’s reliance on pre-prepared dishes, and felt reassured by the city’s culinary standards. 

Planning to bring red wine back home, they expressed enthusiasm for future visits, facilitated by their family ties.