Hong Kong sees increase of mainland tourists over week-long holiday

Giant panda-themed decorations filled the streets of Hong Kong to celebrate the arrival of a giant panda pair gifted by the central government and the birth of twin cubs in Hong Kong. In the Southern District where the amusement park housing the giant pandas is located, residents and tourists can board boats with giant panda-themed light embellishments for a cruise in nearby waters.

Hong Kong's vibrant cultural scene remains inviting, with a new exhibition about the origins of Chinese civilization at Hong Kong Palace Museum opening from Sept. 25 to Feb. 7 next year. Exploring exhibitions, along with snapping photos at iconic landmarks and embarking on urban walks, are trending among tourists to Hong Kong.

Hong Kong was voted the 8th friendliest city in the world in 2024 by readers of the magazine Conde Nast Traveller. It is mulling new strategies to promote tourism, and proposals were made about allowing more local people to work part-time as tour guides.