KUALA LUMPUR, April 16 -- Concerns over potential massive earthquakes in Japan have prompted more Hongkongers to spend the Easter holidays in mainland China, especially in Greater Bay Area cities and far-western provinces like Xinjiang and Tibet.

Several travel agencies reported a surge in demand for mainland tours while interest in Japan tours declined significantly.

A report by the South China Morning Post said high-speed rail tickets to many mainland cities were already sold out three days ahead of the long weekend.

"Travelling to mainland China has become a new normal for many people," said Jonathan Wong Tse-wing, chairman of the Society of IATA Passenger Agents.

Wong said Chaoshan in Guangdong was among the most popular destinati...