'Event capital of Asia' Hong Kong promotes travel in Canada with festive reception
The Hong Kong Tourism Board says Hong Kong is one of the world’s great cities for those who look forward to dining in lively locales during their vacations. The destination demonstrated just that during a Toronto event last week paying tribute to the Chinese New Year.
The event saw attendees served Chinese food and view Hong Kong cultural displays, with the tourism board’s Jorge Lee telling those on hand that great restaurants and cultural displays await those visiting the destination.
“We ask you to join us and see Hong Kong for yourself,” he told the audience. “A city that’s full of vigour, electrifying energy, passion and creativity. A city that is passionate about its dining culture, a place where ambitious living arts thrive, where the outdoors offer new thrilling adventures and where East meets West.”
Hong Kong’s following is building in this country, with 362,000 of us visiting last year, a 13% increase over 2025.
Lee labelled his destination a “food paradise” and noted late fall sees the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which welcomes chefs and wineries from around the world for culinary celebrations, wine tasting and entertainment.
He noted the creation of Taste Hong Kong, billed as a “chef-curated gourmet guide” jointly launched by the tourist board and the Chinese Culinary Institute, features over “250 restaurants personally selected by over 50 master chefs.”
Taste Hong Kong offers an “insider perspective on the city’s most authentic food experiences,” Lee continued.
Lee also noted that Hong Kong – which he called “the event capital of Asia” – sees lively festivals throughout the year celebrating the Lunar New Year, the arts, dragon boat races and a host of other themes.
Among those attending the Toronto gathering was Moira Smith of Goway, who later said, “the Hong Kong Tourism Board once again delivered an excellent Chinese New Year celebration. The venue, entertainment, and opportunity to connect with industry colleagues made for a great evening. HKTB consistently demonstrates why they’re one of the most professional tourism boards we work with.
“From a business perspective, Hong Kong is experiencing strong momentum for us – we’ve seen 33% year-over-year growth as the destination reestablishes itself as a preferred Asian stopover. Its unique position as a gateway to mainland China, and excellent connectivity throughout Asia, makes it highly attractive in multi-destination itineraries. With China’s popularity increasing and travelers looking to maximize their Asian journeys, I expect our Hong Kong business to continue this upward trajectory.”
Also giving the event the thumbs up was Harold Ho of Royal Scenic, stating that it was his pleasure to promote Hong Kong’s dynamic travel experience.
“Last night’s event was full of modern energy and cherished traditions that Hong Kong is known for – with lively lion dances to delicious Cantonese delicacies and a delightful a cappella group performance singing English and Chinese pop songs,” Ho said. “As we gallop into the Year of the Horse… Royal Scenic invites travellers to visit Hong Kong for its incredible hospitality, world-class dining, breathtaking skyline views, and authentic cultural festivals.”
