Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Corporation is significantly augmenting its rail network capacity, deploying over 600 additional services across key lines to accommodate the surge in passenger volume expected during the Lunar New Year holiday period. This substantial increase in operational hours and train frequency aims to facilitate movement for residents and visitors attending traditional celebrations, ensuring safe and convenient access to family gatherings, popular festive markets, and major public events like the night parade and the spectacular Victoria Harbour fireworks display.
To ease mobility for commuters during Hong Kong’s most significant holiday, the MTR system is rolling out enhanced schedules from the eve of the Lunar New Year (February 16) through the main seven-day celebration (February 17-23).
Overnight Service and Increased Frequency
The cornerstone of the MTR’s holiday preparations is the extension of operating hours. On Lunar New Year Eve (February 16), most local rail lines, excluding the Airport Express and the Disneyland Resort Line, will provide overnight service. Train frequency will be substantially increased starting from 3:00 PM, catering to those traveling late for family dinners and final market runs, eliminating the rush for the last train.
Complementing the heavy rail network, the Light Rail system will also see extended operation, running through the night on seven specific routes. Furthermore, three critical MTR Bus routes will extend their service hours to ensure broader access across the territories.
Facilitating Major Public Events
The MTR has strategically scheduled extra trips to support attendees of Hong Kong’s two most anticipated public celebrations:
- Night Parade (February 17): On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Tuen Ma Line will see more frequent evening services, geared toward managing the large crowds mobilizing to attend the nighttime parade, a highlight of the season.
- Fireworks Display (February 18): For the second day of the festival, when the annual fireworks illuminate Victoria Harbour, seven lines will increase their evening frequencies to manage the massive influx and outflow of spectators. These lines include the Kwun Tong Line, Tsuen Wan Line, Island Line, South Island Line, Tuen Ma Line, East Rail Line, and Tung Chung Line.
Airport and Disneyland Connectivity Enhanced
Travelers utilizing the Airport Express will experience improved early-morning access. The first train leaving Hong Kong Station will depart earlier, at 5:35 AM, running from February 14 to February 16. Late-night services from AsiaWorld-Expo station will also be extended, with the final train departing at 1:00 AM on February 19 and February 22.
Additionally, to assist families celebrating the festival at the resort, the Disneyland Resort Line will operate with increased morning train frequency over the entire seven-day Lunar New Year period (February 17 to February 23).
Festive Rewards for Commuters
Adding a touch of seasonal spirit, the MTR is running a “Year of the Horse Lucky Spin” promotion from February 13 to February 26 at nine designated stations (including Central, Admiralty, Causeway Bay, and East Tsim Sha Tsui). Members of the MTR Mobile program can participate by interacting with the virtual service ambassador, Tracy, earning chances to win MTR Points, complimentary single-journey tickets, retail vouchers for various MTR shops, and entry into a grand lucky draw, offering substantial prizes such as the latest smartphone models and MTR annual passes.
With stations anticipated to be exceptionally busy, particularly following major events, passengers are strongly advised to allow extra travel time, adhere closely to staff instructions, and consult the MTR website for the most current service announcements and schedules. These extensive measures underscore the MTR’s commitment to facilitating festive travel across Hong Kong, ensuring a smooth and celebratory start to the Year of the Horse.
