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Climate and Season Guide: THE Best Time to Visit Hong Kong
Thinking of coming to Hong Kong but not sure when to time it for the perfect experience? Luckily for you, we’re here to answer that question.
Autumn is the prime time to explore Hong Kong. Around the months of September to November, the weather is just right because humidity is low but not too chilly. This is also when most festivals happen, so you can make the most of your visit.
Don’t just take our word for it, though… You see, given our city’s four-season climate, tons of attractions, and array of festivals throughout the year, your visiting experience can still vary depending on when you go.
Today, we’ll discover the best time to visit Hong Kong depending on factors like the season, weather, and crowd.
Visiting Hong Kong: Season by Season
Hong Kong in Spring
Spring months: March to May
Average daily temperatures: 21°C to 28°C
Best attractions to explore:
- Victoria Peak
- Happy Valley Racecourse
- Ocean Park
- Hong Kong Disneyland
- The Peak Tram
Key events/festivals to celebrate:
- Cheung Chau Bun Festival
- Tin Hau Festival
- Hong Kong International Film Festival
- Asia Contemporary Art Show
- Sónar Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s weather in spring is unpredictable, so traveling here during this season can be a bit tricky. The weather from March to May can swing between warm sunny days with clear skies to occasional heavy downpours that cause storm warnings.
Nonetheless, late spring days are relatively sunny and mildly humid, so you can still enjoy a pleasant stroll around parks and see the bright pink blooms of Hong Kong’s orchid emblem – Bauhinia.
It’s also the best time to visit many museums and art galleries because it’s when Hong Kong Arts Month happens.
Pros
- Features a variety of art exhibitions and cultural festivals
- Summer temperatures and humidity haven’t fully kicked in yet
- Lesser crowds and tourists
Cons
- Unpredictable weather
Hong Kong in Summer
Summer months: June to August
Average daily temperatures: 29°C to 36°C
Best attractions to explore:
- Aqua Luna Cruise
- Glamping sites
- Symphony of Lights
- Lantau Island Tour
- Rooftop bars and restaurants
Key events/festivals to celebrate:
- Dragon Boat Festival
- Lan Kwai Fong Beer and Music Festival
- Hong Kong SummerFest
- Chinese Opera Festival
- Harbour Chill Carnival
Summer in Hong Kong is a bit ironic because most days are sunny and humid, while other days are laced with summer showers and frequent thunderstorms.
Fortunately, in the midst of the scorching summer heat, Hong Kong offers numerous parks and shaded walkways to escape the sweltering temperatures. Plus, you can take shelter in air-conditioned spots like malls, bookstores, and supermarkets.
Now, if you want to just enjoy the summer heat, dive into one of the best public pools and beaches in Repulse Bay, Shek O Beach, or Stanley Beach. You can also try a bunch of summer activities like scuba diving, kayaking, boating, and more!
Pros
- Many beaches and public swimming pools are open
- Tons of summer activities to enjoy Various summer festivals to attend
- Various summer festivals to attend
Cons
- Frequent typhoons and rainstorms
- Humid and high temperatures
Hong Kong in Autumn
Autumn months: September to November
Average daily temperatures: 24°C to 30°C
Best attractions to explore:
- Hong Kong Disneyland
- Tai Tong Park
- Victoria Peak Circle Walk
- Tsing Yi Park
- Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens
Key events/festivals to celebrate:
- Mid-Autumn Festival
- National Day
- Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance Parade
- Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival
- Chung Yeung Festival
Autumn is the peak season for a Hong Kong visit. Overall, the weather is pleasantly cool, and the skyline clear and sunny during fall.
It’s also the ideal time to marvel at the vibrant hues of trees and flowers in national parks and experience an array of cultural celebrations across Hong Kong’s districts.
Without the discomfort of the sticky summer heat, it’s fun to explore a range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, island hopping, camping, and more.
One of the most famous festivals you shouldn’t miss is the Mid-Autumn Festival. This festival’s highlights are the spectacular lantern carnivals, decadent mooncakes, and the ever-joyous Tai Hang Fire Dragon Dance.
And there’s more! From late October, foodies will have a field day trying out tons of wine and global cuisine because it’s the start of the Hong Kong Wine and Dine Festival. During this time, the Central Waterfront is filled to the brim with numerous Michelin-starred diners, food booths, gourmet restaurants, posh bars, and more.
Pros
- Weather is stable, and humidity is low
- Various cultural celebrations and events
- Scenic view of autumn foliage in parks
- Peak season to visit Hong Kong’s best attractions
Cons
- Large crowd of tourists
Hong Kong in Winter
Winter months: December to February
Average daily temperatures: 15°C to 20°C
Best attractions to explore:
- AIA Carnival
- Victoria Peak Tower
- Tsz Shan Monastery
- Hong Kong Art Museum
- Temple Street Night Market
Key events/festivals to celebrate:
- Hong Kong WinterFest
- Christmas and New Year
- Hong Kong Winter Wonderland
- Lunar New Year
If you don’t mind a bit of chill, visiting Hong Kong in winter is also a delightful experience. Winter here is relatively mild because snow is uncommon, and daily temperatures don’t plunge into teeth-chattering extremes.
Nonetheless, it’s still advisable to wear sweaters for most days and a light coat or jacket in the evenings.
Meanwhile, in terms of attractions and festivities during winter, Hong Kong is definitely allergic to the mediocre. You see, as soon as the Christmas or Lunar New Year comes around the corner, you’ll see over-the-top decorations, festive celebrations, and parties, as well as a plethora of exciting events and activities.
And guess what? December is the best time for a shopping spree! Yes, this merry season is definitely the right chance to get that bag and score some great deals and bargains. Aside from large shopping malls, we recommend you check out bazaars and flea markets.
Pros
- Best season for shopping
- Mild winter temperatures
- Various large festivities and events
- Most days are clear and sunny
Cons
- There can be sudden temperature drops
Visiting Hong Kong: Peak Tourist Season
When is peak tourist season in Hong Kong, you ask?
Peak tourist season in Hong Kong roughly runs from late October to early December. These months make up the “stable” season because the humidity drops, temperatures stay at a relatively comfortable average, and rainfall is rare.
With this mild and amicable weather, Hong Kong’s top sights and attractions buzz with activity, rooftop bars and restaurants are bustling, and various events and festivities are in full swing.
However, if you wish to visit during peak tourist season, it’s better to book flights and accommodation in advance because prices skyrocket during these months.
Visiting Hong Kong: Low Tourist Season
March to May or spring is considered the low tourist season in Hong Kong. Daily temperatures and humidity get higher in early March, and rainfall and thunderstorms intensify in May. The weather becomes unpredictable too, so it would be hard to plan an itinerary.
Nonetheless, visiting in the low season still has its perks. If you prefer a more relaxed and intimate experience without the usual buzz and noise of a large crowd, exploring Hong Kong during this season is ideal.
Besides that, flights, hotels, and tickets for attractions and activities may come at cheaper prices, so you can save more!