Hong Kong Records 232,751 Visitors amid Golden Week Surge

China’s Super Golden Week produced a nationwide travel surge, with the Ministry of Transport projecting over 2.36 billion trips and reporting record first-day rail (23.13 million), strong air (about 2.47 million passengers) and heavy road (308.9 million) traffic that overwhelmed major tourist sites. Hong Kong recorded 232,751 mainland arrivals on the first day, a 5% year-on-year rise, while total inbound trips to the city were 558,431 (slightly down overall); industry leaders expect further arrivals and stronger spending from long‑haul tourists as the holiday continues. The Hong Kong Tourism Association warned high hotel prices may curb tourism spending, with some visitors opting to stay overnight in Shenzhen and cross into Hong Kong for day visits. HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee said the city expects about 1.54 million mainland visitors over the National Day holiday (roughly an 11% increase) and has ordered stepped-up preparations, including more control-point staff, transport support, crowd management and a one‑stop border‑status information platform. Public events — including a large flag‑raising reception and an anticipated fireworks display expected to draw about 290,000 spectators — and hopes for up to a 20% boost for restaurants underscore the holiday’s economic importance for Hong Kong.