Full Breakdown
Surge in Guest House Bookings Amid Subdued Christmas Celebrations in Hong Kong
12/25/2025, 6:18:52 AM
Record Guest House Occupancy and Rates
The Christmas season in Hong Kong has seen a significant increase in guest house bookings, with occupancy rates projected to reach 90% compared to 80% the previous year. David Leung Tai-wai, founder and chairman of the Hong Kong Guest Houses Association, noted that this year marks the highest occupancy and room rates in at least five years, with prices rising by at least HK$50 (US$6.40) to as much as HK$500 per night in popular tourist areas. Leung emphasized that tourists began booking accommodations as early as October, a month earlier than last year, indicating a strong demand for budget lodging during the festive period.
Subdued Festive Atmosphere
Despite the surge in tourism, the overall festive atmosphere in Hong Kong has been described as subdued. This change is attributed to the recent Tai Po fire, which resulted in 161 fatalities, leading to the postponement or scaling down of many large-scale events. Local residents and tourists are opting for quieter celebrations, with many choosing home-cooked meals over dining out due to perceived high restaurant prices. Office worker Cecile Tang remarked on the less lively atmosphere this year, noting fewer decorations in Kowloon and a significant number of residents leaving the city for the holidays.
Shift in Travel Preferences
In terms of outbound travel, Hong Kong tourists are increasingly favoring South Korea and mainland Chinese cities over Japan for their Christmas holidays. Fanny Yeung Shuk-fun, executive director of the Travel Industry Council, reported that approximately 1,500 outbound tours are expected to depart during the Christmas period, with 60% of these tours utilizing high-speed rail for short trips. Yeung attributed Japan's declining popularity to recent incidents, including bear attacks and earthquakes, which have deterred travelers.
Reckless Behavior Amid Festive Decorations
The festive spirit has also led to reckless behavior among tourists, particularly at the Peninsula Hotel, known for its elaborate Christmas decorations. Reports indicate that crowds have been seen climbing over safety barriers and dodging traffic to capture photos of the hotel’s facade. This behavior raised safety concerns, as tourists ventured into areas marked off by orange tape, risking their safety for better photo opportunities.
Official Statements & Responses
David Leung Tai-wai expressed concerns that the government's promotion of a "mega-event" economy could waste public funds if affordable lodging options are not equally promoted. Meanwhile, local residents have voiced their sentiments regarding the subdued festive atmosphere, with many opting for more intimate celebrations at home.
Verbatim Quotes
- “marked the highest in at least five years” — David Leung Tai-wai, Founder and Chairman, Hong Kong Guest Houses Association
- “It’s not as lively as before, especially in Kowloon where there seem to be fewer Christmas decorations this year,” — Cecile Tang, Office Worker
- “The main reason is that Japan has experienced several incidents in the past one or two months, including bear attacks and earthquakes, which have caused its popularity to drop slightly,” — Fanny Yeung Shuk-fun, Executive Director, Travel Industry Council
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the guest house occupancy rates and pricing trends are well-documented, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the overall impact of the Tai Po fire on holiday celebrations and tourism. Additionally, the exact reasons behind the shift in travel preferences remain partially speculative, with various factors influencing tourists' decisions.
