Can Hong Kong protect its eco-sensitive sites amid ‘golden week’ overtourism fears?

Hong Kong anticipates a significant influx of mainland Chinese tourists during the National Day "golden week" from October 1 to 7. The city expects roughly 1.29 million visitors, with daily numbers projected to increase by over 5% compared to the previous year. Popular attractions such as Po Pin Chau, Cheung Chau, Sai Kung, and Wong Mau Chau are anticipated to draw large crowds, sparking concerns over the capacity of eco-sensitive sites to handle the surge.

Greenpeace Hong Kong's Ha Shun-kuen expressed worry that while reservations for Po Pin Chau have helped manage visitor numbers, other high-traffic areas remain vulnerable to overcrowding and environmental damage. She called for a broader ecotourism framework, including measures like stricter daily limits, infrastructure upgrades, and temporary closures when necessary.

Authorities have announced additional patrol staff, night patrols, CCTV cameras, and enhanced cleaning services for Ham Tin Wan, Sai Wan, and Long Ke Wan. The Hong Kong Tourism Association's Timothy Chui Ting-pong dismissed overtourism concerns, stating that the 1.29 million estimated arrivals constitute only 2.4% of the year's projected 53 million visitors.

He emphasized that crowding is primarily localized in popular tourist districts and individual attractions rather than a citywide issue, attributing the congestion to temporary capacity constraints in areas like Tsim Sha Tsui. The MTR Corporation will augment East Rail services and introduce new high-speed rail connections during the holiday period, while police expect around 260,000 spectators for the National Day fireworks display.

Last year's golden week saw 1.4 million mainland visitors, leading to concerns over eco-sensitive areas, transportation, and sanitation.