As the four-day Easter holiday kicks off in Hong Kong, residents are flocking to travel destinations in record numbers, with the Immigration Department reporting a surge in border crossings. On April 18, 2025, the first day of the holiday, the department expects around 759,000 departures, marking a peak in travel activity.
According to the Immigration Department, by 9 PM on April 17, over 987,900 crossings had already been recorded, including more than 661,900 departures. Among these, over 564,000 individuals chose to cross the border via land routes, with the Lok Ma Chau control point being the most popular, accounting for approximately 129,000 departures. The Lo Wu control point followed closely behind, with about 117,000 travelers.
The Travel Industry Council has noted that this year, there are over 3,000 tour groups departing during the Easter holiday, with more than half of these being high-speed rail tours. Many of these tours are heading to destinations outside Guangdong Province, such as Guizhou, Guilin, and the scenic Three Gorges of the Yangtze River. Some travel agencies have even organized 'special train' tours to popular locations like Changsha, Zhangjiajie, and Shantou.
Early travel was evident on April 17, with many citizens eager to start their holiday. Crowds were reported at the West Kowloon High-Speed Rail Station and the airport, where families and individuals alike were seen hauling luggage and waiting in long lines. Some travelers expressed concerns about natural disasters in Japan, including rumors of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, prompting them to opt for mainland travel instead.
At the West Kowloon station, the scene was bustling, with ticket sales showing that nearly all high-speed rail tickets for April 18 and 19 were sold out. Travelers noted that purchasing same-day tickets to the north was becoming increasingly difficult. A resident heading to Guangzhou for four days mentioned, "Because of the rumors of earthquakes and volcanic eruptions in Japan, I feel safer traveling to the mainland during the holiday." Another traveler planned to visit an indoor ski resort in Guangzhou for three days, highlighting the variety of activities available in mainland China.
In anticipation of the high travel volume, MTR has announced an increase in train services during the holiday. On April 18 and 19, an additional eight southbound trains will run from Shenzhen North Station to Hong Kong's West Kowloon Station, while another seven northbound trains will be added on April 20 and 21. Furthermore, from April 18 to April 22, MTR has arranged eight additional pairs of special trains to popular tourist destinations, enhancing travel options for holidaymakers.
As the holiday progresses, the busy scenes are expected to continue. Travelers are advised to arrive early to manage the anticipated crowds. The Transport Department has recommended that passengers allow sufficient time for immigration procedures, suggesting that the earliest check-in should be two hours before departure. Despite the heavy foot traffic, MTR has implemented measures to maintain order, including opening more checkpoints and providing guidance to ensure smooth operations.
On the morning of April 18, the West Kowloon High-Speed Rail Station was already filled with travelers as early as 6 AM, with social media updates showing real-time passenger flows exceeding capacity. Many travelers arrived 90 minutes early to cope with the expected large crowds. Ms. Pan, a traveler, shared her experience, stating, "Although it’s crowded, the customs clearance was smooth, taking about ten minutes. They opened many gates, so the wait wasn’t too bad."
At various border control points, including Lo Wu and Shenzhen Bay, the Immigration Department indicated that waiting times were generally less than 30 minutes. Police reported busy conditions at these points, with heavy traffic observed on the Shenzhen Bay Highway heading towards the control point.
Travelers have expressed excitement about the opportunities for consumption in mainland China, which they find more attractive than in Hong Kong. Ms. Wen, traveling with a group of 12 to Yangshuo and Guilin for four days, remarked on the variety of options available, stating, "There are many choices, such as singing, massages, or shopping. It’s a great place to spend our holiday!"
As the Easter holiday unfolds, the combination of increased travel options, favorable conditions for crossing the border, and the allure of mainland destinations is set to keep Hong Kong residents on the move. The Travel Industry Council's predictions of increased tourism reflect a broader trend of residents seeking diverse experiences beyond their city. With the holiday period just beginning, the high-speed rail system is prepared to accommodate the influx, ensuring that travelers can enjoy their well-deserved break.
