Hong Kong saw a 25% increase in inbound visitors on New Year's Eve despite cancelling its traditional fireworks display due to the deadly Tai Po fire. Immigration Department figures show 195,798 arrivals that day, including 148,435 from mainland China. Meanwhile, outbound trips by locals rose by nearly 21%.
Hong Kong recorded 195,798 inbound visitors on New Year's Eve, December 31, a 25% rise from 156,366 the previous year, despite forgoing its traditional fireworks display in response to the deadly Tai Po fire. Bars and hotels appeared to benefit most from the holiday footfall increase.
Immigration Department figures indicate 148,435 visitors from mainland China, up 24% year-on-year, and 47,363 from elsewhere, a roughly 29% increase. The mainland influx was anticipated given the New Year holiday there from Thursday to Saturday.
However, outbound trips by Hongkongers reached 363,730, nearly 21% higher than 301,109 in 2024, meaning not all sectors gained equally.
This surge highlights the resilience of Hong Kong's tourism, with visitors flocking to areas like Central and Causeway Bay even without fireworks.