Published on
December 23, 2025
Hong Kong sees a significant influx of visitors during the Christmas and New Year holidays and isthus back on track with a notable level of recovery for its tourism industry. As per data released by the Immigration Department, Hong Kong received more than 1.15 million visitors between December 20 and 21, and 48,000 foreign visitors on Saturday, which was the highest for the year. The reception speaks volumes about Hong Kong being a desirable destination for family visits as well as for fun and recreation.
The holiday crowds, in particular, have contributed a considerably positive effect to the hotel industry, with local hotel provider Nina Hospitality noting that hotel occupancy rates in good locations such as Causeway Bay and Wong Chuk Hang, near Ocean Park, can be expected to top 90% over the holiday season. Hotel occupancy rates topping 90% denote a good recovery over the previous year.
Boosting the Economy with Increased Tourism Spending
Tourist spending during this festive season has been on the rise, further cementing Hong Kong’s status as a leading global tourism destination. According to Rinoa Chan, commercial manager at Nina Hospitality, average room rates are also projected to rise, with a significant number of bookings from mainland China. The city has also attracted travelers from Australia, the United States, and Singapore, contributing to the diversification of visitors.
The steady increase in tourism has far-reaching economic impacts, benefiting local businesses, restaurants, retail, and transportation services. Tourism plays a critical role in Hong Kong’s economy, and as tourism numbers continue to rise, the city is positioned to strengthen its position as a key economic hub in Asia.
The Role of Seasonal Events in Enhancing Visitor Experience
Timothy Chui Ting-pong, executive director of the Hong Kong Tourism Association, expressed optimism about the growth in tourism during the festive season, highlighting the success of the city’s holiday events and tourism campaigns. Chui noted that Tsim Sha Tsui was bustling with crowds, a clear indication that the tourism sector’s promotional efforts have successfully spurred demand. The city’s mild winter temperatures, coupled with its vibrant festive atmosphere, have been powerful draws for visitors, particularly those from mainland China and Asia.
The holiday events, including festivals, parades, and markets, have created a lively atmosphere, further contributing to the appeal of Hong Kong as a prime destination during the festive period. Beyond Christmas, the weekend leading up to New Year’s Eve is expected to mark another peak in arrivals, further solidifying Hong Kong’s attractiveness to travelers.
Sustainable Tourism Growth: Impact on Long-Term Economic Development
As Fanny Yeung Shuk-fan, executive director of the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong, projected that more than 1 million visitors would arrive during the Christmas season, the tourism sector is poised for continued growth in the coming years. The increase in tourist arrivals, expected to rise by about 10% year-on-year, reflects the growing interest in Hong Kong as a travel destination.
Looking ahead, Hong Kong’s tourism sector is projected to exceed 49 million arrivals by the end of the year, reflecting a long-term upward trajectory in the tourism industry. This growth is aligned with the city’s Vision 2030 for tourism sustainability, focusing on both attracting international visitors and ensuring environmentally responsible tourism practices to support long-term economic stability.
Future Tourism Impact: Expanding Regional and Global Connectivity
As Hong Kong’s tourism market continues to grow, future efforts will be focused on enhancing regional and global connectivity, increasing access to new markets, and expanding tourism infrastructure. The success of the holiday season reflects a larger trend in the region’s tourism, where diverse and inclusive experiences for both international and local visitors are key to maintaining long-term tourism vitality.
The city’s focus on sustainable eco-tourism, digital tourism solutions, and local cultural experiences will shape the future of tourism in Hong Kong. With smart tourism innovations, such as real-time data and personalized travel experiences, Hong Kong will continue to attract a global audience, positioning itself as a leading destination for cultural tourism and sustainable travel.
Future Tourism Sustainability: Balancing Growth and Environmental Protection
Looking ahead, the future tourism impact on Hong Kong is set to be shaped by sustainable growth that balances the need for increased tourist arrivals with the preservation of the city’s environmental and cultural resources. Sustainable tourism practices, including green accommodations, low-carbon transport options, and eco-friendly tourism experiences, will play a critical role in maintaining Hong Kong’s long-term appeal while reducing its carbon footprint.
The city’s continued investment in tourism infrastructure that supports sustainability will be crucial to ensuring that tourism growth does not come at the expense of local communities or the natural environment. Hong Kong’s tourism strategy will focus on creating a resilient and environmentally conscious tourism model that continues to attract international tourists while preserving the city’s unique cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
A Thriving Future for Hong Kong’s Tourism Sector
However, the increased number of tourists during the Christmas and New Year holidays should be seen as an affirmation of the strength of the tourism industry in Hong Kong. As the number of tourists from both within the country and abroad keeps on rising, it can be said that Hong Kong is still at the top of the list as a destination for tourists.
As the number of tourists increases, the prominence of Hong Kong as a popular destination is bound to be reinforced, leading to the economic prosperity of the city as well as the development of a sustainable tourism model for future generations. The success of the holiday season is only the start of the bright future that lies ahead for tourism in Hong Kong, whose model of innovation can be replicated in the future of tourism around the world.
