Tourists enjoy a sunny afternoon along the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade in Hong Kong on Aug 16, 2023. (SHAMIM ASHRAF / CHINA DAILY)

HONG KONG – Hong Kong recorded about 26.8 million visitor arrivals from January to October this year, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) announced on Wednesday.

According to the statistics released by the HKTB, the preliminary visitor arrivals for October stood at about 3.46 million, and about 2.7 million of them were from the Chinese mainland.

With a series of activities to bring in tourists, the HKTB – the government-subvented body tasked to market and promote Hong Kong as a travel destination – said the total visitor arrivals for 2023 are expected to exceed 30 million.

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It is reported that from Nov 24, 2023 to Jan 1, 2024, the Tourism Board will launch the "Hong Kong WinterFest" to bring unforgettable winter celebrations for citizens and tourists. 

Under the government’s “Hello Hong Kong" campaign that was launched in February, the city has sent out over 500,000 free flight tickets to attract mainland and overseas tourists, expecting to lure over 1.5 million visitors.

Besides, the “Happy Hong Kong” campaign that lasts for 10 months since April, also presents a variety of activities such as cinema ticket discounts, gourmet marketplaces and carnivals.

From the Mid-Autumn Festival to New Year, members of the public will be able to immerse themselves in a wealth of diversified experiences showcasing the local spirit. (ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

To revitalize the city’s nightlife, the city launched Night Vibes Hong Kong— a plan that includes three major waterfront markets, shopping and transport promotions, an enhanced cultural and arts experience, and the resumption of flagship festival celebrations – on Sept 14. 

READ MORE: Colorful events to invigorate HK's nightlife

Beginning around the Mid-Autumn Festival, the events extended through the National Day holiday and Halloween and will also cover the Christmas, New Year’s Day, and the beginning of next year.

Hong Kong spectators break into rapturous applause on the third and final day of the Hong Kong Sevens at Hong Kong Stadium, April 3, 2023. (CALVIN NG / CHINA DAILY)

The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens has been played twice on the same series calendar this year, with 28 teams competing at the Hong Kong Stadium, including 12 sides in women's sevens.

The special administrative region is relying on ‘quality tourism’ to reclaim its hospitality crown for visitors by organizing more conventions, as well as cultural and green lifestyle tours.