Hong Kong's tourism industry is witnessing a shift, with cost-conscious mainland Chinese travelers replacing the high-spending clientele of the past. These budget-minded tourists are opting for free walking tours, affordable accommodations across the border in Shenzhen, and utilizing social media for travel planning.
During the recent Labour Day holiday, a younger generation of visitors from mainland China, like Laura Li (28) and Diego Deng (20), were spotted exploring Hong Kong. Unlike their predecessors, they prefer independent exploration using social media guides on platforms like Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book), a popular app among China's Generation Z for discovering local hotspots and travel hacks.
"Tour groups restrict my freedom," Li explained while visiting the Yau Ma Tei Police Station, a popular tourist destination due to its frequent appearances in local media.
This shift in spending habits presents challenges for Hong Kong's tourism sector, which previously thrived on luxury retail and high-end experiences. The catering industry, for instance, reported a 10% decline in revenue during the holiday compared to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, Hong Kong residents are increasingly traveling to mainland China for shopping and entertainment, citing better value and service.
The industry must adapt to this changing landscape by catering to budget-friendly travelers and leveraging social media trends. Highlighting free attractions, promoting affordable dining options, and collaborating with social media influencers could be key strategies for attracting this new generation of visitors.
Source: Reuters
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