Stories from Hong Kong

During Hong Kong's 5-day Golden Week holiday, which runs from today until next Thursday, over 691,000 people are expected to enter or leave the territory. The summit also discussed measures against counterfeit traditional tobacco products, including unified packaging design and a tax stamp system, set to take effect March 1st next year. The forecast for tomorrow predicts scattered showers and thunderstorms, with a chance of heavy rain in some areas. Authorities are considering measures to combat counterfeit products, including potential discounts on attractive items if there is a reason to believe they will fail. The summit includes four days of discussions, with a focus on livelihood issues and local Hong Kong matters. On the second day of the May 1st Golden Week holiday, over 1.086 million people crossed the border into or out of mainland China by 9 PM.

Residents who are moving, some to new streets and others staying in the same area, are invited to return for a farewell gathering.

Some within the industry question the efficiency of dedicating resources to assist only 20 households, deeming it low-yield.

Starting April 1, 2026, all taxis in Hong Kong must provide at least two electronic payment methods. Officials are also promoting the regulation of tobacco products, with reminders issued to travelers at ports, on flights, and via mainland social media. Hong Kong is hosting its largest international mediation summit, with over 1,000 participants from more than 60 countries attending both physical and online sessions. The new Eastern District Transport Project, including the Eastern District Road, will open tomorrow. The new section of the MTR's East Rail Line, the Tuen Mun South Extension, has opened, with operations running smoothly on its first day. The East Rail Line's Tuen Mun South Extension is expected to open for traffic tomorrow.

A small, independently operated restaurant is experiencing financial strain due to the costs associated with hosting private events, including ingredient expenses, utilities, and lost revenue from being closed to the public. Some collectors focus on rare or 'shiny' cards, while others experiment with small quantities of new releases before committing to larger purchases. The popularity of Pokemon card collecting has increased, with many adult collectors and a wider variety of card types and brands available. The demand for certain cards requires ordering nine months in advance. A new road cargo information system replaced the old one on May 1, 2026, with users not needing to re-register. The system offers dual advantages and connects users directly.

Two bridges have sustained damage due to rising water levels.

A pizza company has been fined for using vague advertising. The fine was issued due to misleading or unclear promotional content. This action addresses consumer protection concerns. The specific company and the nature of the vague advertising were not disclosed.

Composer Ishida Taro has arranged the music for "Shogun." This arrangement is a breakthrough for the composer, who has been in the industry for a long time. Ishida prefers to go first in performances, not watching others, to stick to his own plan.

Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas has died at the age of 81.

Hong Kong footballer Ricardo Lee discussed his career, stating he initially believed his name suggested he was foreign. He also mentioned enjoying the physicality and confrontational aspects of sports.