Crowds continue to flood Hong Kong attractions despite outbound travel surge
South China Morning Post
by Lo Hoi-ying,Jess MaFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hong Kong’s popular tourist spots saw a surge in visitors on the third day of Lunar New Year, despite official data revealing a nearly 16% increase in net outbound travel during the holiday period. Locals and tourists alike flocked to attractions such as The Peak, Che Kung Temple in Sha Tin, and the High Island Reservoir’s East Dam in Sai Kung. Authorities reported steady footfall at these locations, with visitor numbers ranging between 500 and 999 from noon to 4pm on Thursday.
The peak of the crowds began building up around 10am, with The Peak and Che Kung Temple drawing large groups early in the day. Safety measures were implemented by authorities to manage the influx, ensuring orderly movement and crowd control. Despite the increase in outbound travel, Hong Kong’s iconic landmarks continued to attract both locals celebrating the Lunar New Year and international visitors seeking cultural experiences.
This situation highlights the resilience of Hong Kong’s tourism sector as it recovers post-pandemic. While more people chose to travel abroad this year, local attractions remain a major draw. The contrast between rising outbound travel and strong domestic tourism underscores the city’s enduring appeal as a global travel destination. For those interested in Asia’s travel trends, this reflects broader shifts in post-pandemic behavior and the gradual revival of international movement.
Verticals
worldasia
Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/19/2026