Hong Kong Celebrates 77th National Day as Golden Week Draws 1.29 Million Visitors
Thestandard · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong marked its 77th National Day on October 1, 2026, with Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu delivering a speech highlighting China's remarkable transformation over the past 77 years during celebrations across the city . In a historic first, Hong Kong payload specialist Lai Ka-ying joined the festivities from China's Tiangong space station, sending congratulatory messages to mark the occasion . The extended Golden Week holiday period has proven extremely lucrative for Hong Kong's hospitality sector, with official figures showing 1.29 million visitors entering the city .
Key Points
- Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu addressed the nation during National Day celebrations, emphasizing China's 77-year journey of transformation and development
- Hong Kong payload specialist Lai Ka-ying, currently aboard China's Tiangong space station, delivered special National Day greetings to the city
- The Hotstone yoga chain abruptly ceased operations, leaving at least 600 members with losses exceeding HK$429,000 across 27 complaints filed with the Consumer Council
- A four-day festive market featuring cultural performances, interactive workshops and over 100 street food stalls opened in Yuen Long to celebrate National Day
- The primary property market recorded 1,400 transactions in September, representing a 30 percent increase from August and setting a four-month high, while 31 luxury transactions exceeding HK$100 million set a new monthly record
Why It Matters
The convergence of National Day celebrations and strong Golden Week visitor numbers demonstrates Hong Kong's continued appeal as a destination for mainland tourists, with the extended 13-day holiday period providing a significant boost to local businesses . The Hotstone closure underscores ongoing consumer protection concerns in Hong Kong's fitness industry, while the property market's recovery signals renewed confidence in the luxury real estate segment .
The convergence of National Day celebrations and strong Golden Week visitor numbers demonstrates Hong Kong's continued appeal as a destination for mainland tourists, with the extended 13-day holiday period providing a significant boost to local businesses . The Hotstone closure underscores ongoing consumer protection concerns in Hong Kong's fitness industry, while the property market's recovery signals renewed confidence in the luxury real estate segment .