Travelers using Hong Kong train to mainland may surge

A leading travel agency predicts a significant increase in group travel from Hong Kong to mainland China this year. Wing On Travel estimates that the number of people taking tour groups via high-speed train may rise by 30 percent. The agency highlighted growing interest in high-speed rail travel. A recent survey conducted from March 7 to 13 showed that 91 percent of respondents are interested in using this transport option. About 65 percent of those surveyed have already traveled to the mainland by high-speed train. Simon Ma Sai-man, the agency's general manager, noted a 20 percent increase in group travel by high-speed train in the first quarter of this year compared to last year. He expects the number of travelers during the upcoming Easter holiday to double compared to last year. The opening of new high-speed rail stations, like those in Zhangjiajie and Jiuzhaigou, has fueled this growth. Ma explained that travel to the mainland has recovered quickly because many airlines have not yet restored full flight schedules. As a result, travelers are choosing other options like South Korea, Taiwan, and Europe when they do not visit Japan.