More than 500 vehicles from Guangdong province have crossed into Hong Kong under a recently launched travel scheme, with some motorists using the opportunity for leisure activities beyond simple cross-border transit, authorities confirmed Wednesday.
The “Southbound Travel for Guangdong Vehicles” scheme, allowing eligible drivers from Guangdong to drive into Hong Kong, has seen “favourable” bookings in its initial phase, according to officials. While many trips are likely for business or family visits, a growing number of drivers are incorporating sightseeing and shopping into their itineraries.
Sightings of left-hand drive vehicles bearing FT-prefixed license plates have been reported across Hong Kong’s urban areas and country parks. One driver was observed stopping at the Kowloon Peak viewing point, while another visited Shing Mun Country Park to observe the local monkey population. These excursions suggest a deliberate effort by some motorists to experience Hong Kong beyond standard border crossings.
Harry Liu, a 29-year-old resident of Guangzhou and owner of a Mercedes-Benz, made a one-day trip to Hong Kong on February 14. “I’m a fan of Hong Kong’s car culture, so I wanted to see how local owners modify their vehicles and chat with them about cars,” Liu said. To minimize expenses, Liu opted to stay overnight in Zhuhai, just across the border, rather than in Hong Kong.
The influx of vehicles coincides with the Lunar Fresh Year holiday period, which this year celebrates the Year of the Horse. Hong Kong anticipates a significant increase in visitor numbers during the festivities, with preliminary data indicating an 8 percent rise in arrivals on the first two days of the holiday compared to 2025, according to the South China Morning Post. A 23-minute fireworks display over Victoria Harbour on Wednesday drew tens of thousands of spectators.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, speaking at the fireworks display, emphasized the importance of continued reform and alignment with China’s 15th five-year plan. He stated, “In the new year, let’s march forward bravely and confidently together, running at a higher speed and making new achievements.”
Elsewhere in Guangdong province, cities are hosting a range of cultural and tourism events throughout the holiday period, from February 15 to 23, including lion dances, lantern displays and showcases of intangible cultural heritage. Lingnan Impression Garden in Guangzhou is featuring performances and interactive activities centered around the “Five Fortune Gods.”
