Best Time To Visit Hong Kong

Best time to visit Hong Kong by season

Winter – from late-November to January – is considered the best time to visit Hong Kong since there are fewer surprises weather-wise. Later in the season, the sky is often cloudy and it can be a little windy and chilly. However, you can also expect intermittent pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine, and comfortable manageable temperatures. In general, January and February are cloudier months and come with the occasional cold fronts.

Spring – from February to April – offers fairly temperate conditions with occasional spikes in humidity. Fog and drizzle can cause some problems on high ground while air traffic and ferry services are occasionally disrupted because of reduced visibility.

Summer – from May to August – is pleasantly warm. Expect some clouds even with the increase in sunshine. From the start of May, the air is occasionally thick and muggy – this is also a leading sign for typhoons! It is hot and humid in the daytime with occasional showers and thunderstorms, particularly during the mornings. Expect average daytime temperatures around 88º F, and at night, slightly lower temperatures around 79ºF with high humidity.

Autumn – from September to November – is also among the better times to visit Hong Kong. While a typhoon can still pass in October, in November you will likely experience the first cool and windy days. By the end of the month, it can already be a little cold. Do bear in mind however that Hong Kong’s cold is still warm by European/western standards.

What to Pack for Hong Kong

As with most journeys abroad, the time of the year you arrive will determine what clothes you should pack. If you travel during the peak season in autumn and winter, expect warm weather. For this time of the year, it’s best to bring comfortable, lightweight and loose fitting cotton clothes. Long-sleeved items will also offer you protection from the sun. It’s always a great idea to carry a light jacket with you, especially at night. Even if you end up never using it, for that one out of ten times that you feel the chill, it could come in extremely handy! You may also need this in hotels or restaurants that use excessive air-conditioning – and many in Hong Kong do! While sightseeing, a hat and high-factor sun block can offer much needed protection against the hot sun. Lightweight cotton or linen T-shirts and polos, and knee-length shorts, are advisable and acceptable for visiting most sites including temples or pagodas. You will do a lot of walking in Hong Kong so light, comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended.