TORONTO — Hong Kong’s 59.3 million visitor arrivals for 2015 reflected a 2.5% decline but was good enough to make the city the second-most visited destination in Asia, just behind mainland China. Despite all the challenges, arrivals from Canada totalled 358,848, an increase of 1.1%.

Last night at Archeo in Toronto’s Distillery District the Hong Kong Tourism Board celebrated Chinese New Year and the 10th anniversary of its joint HKTB/HKETO signature event. Hong Kong is home to more than 60 Michelin-starred and 120 Michelin-recommended restaurants and last night participants were treated to several of the city’s delicious dining options.

Hong Kong’s strategic location has facilitated the development of multi-destination itineraries, said Michael Lim, Director, Canada, Central and South America of the Hong Kong Tourism Board. Over 90% of Canadian visitors to Hong Kong also visit other destinations on the same trip. “In a few short years the connection between Hong Kong and Mainland China will be enhanced with a high-speed rail link as well as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge. This will significantly reduce the travel time between HK and the Mainland,” he said.

The ‘My Time for Hong Kong’ brand campaign will continue, he added, highlighting the authentic experiences that await visitors as they explore the sights and sounds of the city like a local.

As of September 2015 Hong Kong had 252 hotels and close to 74,000 rooms. Another 20 hotels are set to be completed by the end of 2016.