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Sai Kung's Po Pin Chau trail has reached full capacity ahead of the upcoming National Day holiday, with Hong Kong anticipating a significant influx of visitors from mainland China. According to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), the popular High Island Geo Trail – Po Pin Chau Section will not have any available time slots for booking on Friday and Saturday next week.

The AFCD also noted that a limited number of openings remain on other days during Hong Kong's Golden Week break, which celebrates the founding of the People's Republic.

The AFCD introduced a trial booking system for the trail last month, as the remote path gained popularity after views of its volcanic rock columns went viral on Chinese social media platforms. In response to the surge in visitors, the department aims to prevent overtourism and potential accidents, such as the fatal incident that occurred during the previous New Year's Eve.

The AFCD advises hikers who cannot secure a spot on the Po Pin Chau trail to visit the nearby Biu Tsim Kok viewing point, which provides similar views without the need for advance booking.

Hong Kong's Immigration Department predicts that approximately 1.29 million mainland Chinese tourists will visit the city during the National Day holiday, which begins on October 1. This figure translates to around 184,286 visitors per day, representing a five percent increase compared to the previous year. To capitalize on the "overwhelming public interest," the Hong Kong Tourism Board has extended the International Lantern Spectacular in Victoria Park until October 4.

The event, featuring giant lanterns from 20 countries, will be open nightly from 6.30pm to 11pm, with extended lighting hours until midnight on Mid-Autumn Day.