Arrivals from long-haul markets rose 18% to 289,489 in August, helped by major international MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) events and mega events, including the Hong Kong Football Festival 2026, which attracted visitors from the U.K. and other markets, the South China Morning Post reported.
In the first eight months of this year, Hong Kong recorded 36.67 million visitor arrivals, a 11% increase over the same period last year.
|
Tourists watch the sunset over Victoria Harbor in Hong Kong. Photo by Reuters |
Seeking to encourage longer stays and higher visitor spending, chief executive John Lee Ka-chiu’s latest Policy Address outlined measures covering mega events, finance, heritage and eco-tourism, The Standard newspaper reported.
Lee said the tourism board will designate three themed seasons each year to strengthen the city’s event offerings: the International Arts Season from February to May, the Chinese Arts Season from June to September, and the Festive Mega Events Season from October to February.
To give visitors a more immersive experience of the city’s landscape and lifestyle, the board will combine classic Hong Kong films with district characteristics and local culture.
One highlight will be a Yau Ma Tei route inspired by scenes from classic police-and-crime films, complemented by night markets and local dining.