A 21-year-old man from Guangzhou died after falling 70 meters from a cliff while taking photos at Po Pin Chau in Sai Kung on New Year's Eve, yet crowds flocked to the same dangerous spot on New Year's Day, many disregarding safety barriers and warnings.
The incident happened around 10.14am yesterday, when the man, surnamed Wong, was hiking with three classmates.
They stopped at a pavilion near the cliff edge for rest and photos.
While moving closer to capture the view, he lost balance and plunged into the sea below. His companions called for help, but he was pronounced dead after being rushed to the hospital.
Today, the scenic viewpoint at Po Pin Chau was packed with holiday visitors.
Long queues formed at prime photo spots, with over a hundred people waiting.
Many posed dramatically on the cliff edge—arms outstretched or leaning sideways—despite clear dangers.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department has installed additional red barriers and warning signs. Staff guarded the main viewpoint entrance, but the vast area made enforcement difficult. Numerous visitors were seen climbing over the barriers.
The department urged the public to stay on official trails, heed signs, and avoid crossing fences, noting long-term erosion makes cliffs unstable.
Extra staff were deployed over the holiday to promote hiking safety.
Meanwhile, at the East Dam of High Island Reservoir, police managed traffic as private vehicles faced 20-minute waits, while toilets saw long queues amid the influx of tourists.
