If you are wondering, what is Hong Kong—a country or a capital city? If you don’t know the answer, before you know about the best time to visit Hong Kong, let’s understand what Hong Kong is all about. It is a Special Administration Region of China with the highest level of autonomy in terms of government, laws, currency, visas, and police. However, the Foreign Affairs and Defense Department is managed by China.
This place is a perfect amalgamation of Chinese and British culture. Whether you’re into shopping, food, fashion, or nightlife, choosing the best time to visit Hong Kong doubles your experience.
Hong Kong’s weather is shaped by its subtropical, coastal location, with distinct seasonal patterns influenced by monsoons and the South China Sea. Though it is a year-round travel destination, before deciding which season to plan our trip, let’s learn about the temperature throughout the year.
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Months |
Temperature (High / Low(°C)) |
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January |
18° / 14° |
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February |
18° / 14° |
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March |
21° / 17° |
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April |
25° / 20° |
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May |
28° / 24° |
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June |
30° / 26° |
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July |
31° / 27° |
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August |
31° / 26° |
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September |
30° / 25 |
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October |
28° / 23° |
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November |
23° / 19° |
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December |
20° / 15° |
Autumn (October-November): The Best Time to Visit Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s temperature in Autumn cools down to a comfortable range of around 19°C to 28°C. Also, the humidity levels drop significantly compared to the summer months. Rainfall is minimal, the sky is often clear, and the breeze is refreshing, which enhances outdoor events like the Wine and Dine Festival, horse racing, and the New World Harbour Race.
This season is also excellent for exploring Hong Kong’s country parks, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. The weather remains consistent and enjoyable, making autumn a peak time for travellers and locals alike.
With this mild weather, spring and autumn offer excellent conditions in which to enjoy Hong Kong’s vibrant events and beautiful natural scenery fully. Whether you’re there for festivals, arts, sports events, or simply the city’s unique energy, these seasons deliver a perfect balance of climate and culture.
List of Festivals and Events to Enjoy during Autumn in Hong Kong
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Horse Racing
Something that keeps tourists on the edge of their seats—is the most popular spectator sport in Hong Kong. These races are held at the two racecourses- Happy Valley and Sha Tin, which are attended by 2.21 million. Fans enjoy thrilling races, place bets, and experience the electric atmosphere that racing brings to the city.
In Hong Kong, horse racing isn’t just a sport- it’s a passion woven into the city’s fabric. Race day at Sha Tin or Happy Valley is an event in itself, and everyone has their eyes on the track and is caught up in the magic of the moment.
For many people in Hong Kong, picking a winning horse is no mere gamble. The real enthusiasts pour over every stat in the race-day supplements, checking into horse performance histories and each jockey’s track record and considering even the most minute details, like the horse’s condition and the track’s surface on that particular day.
And once that race bell sounds, there’s a collective heartbeat as horses thunder down the track, cheered on by an entire stadium. Win or lose, it’s this intense camaraderie and excitement that make horse racing such an irresistible part of life in Hong Kong.
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Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong is a time of traditional warmth, lighting up the city with beautiful lantern displays. Victoria Park hosts one of the best—vibrant lanterns in all colourful shapes and sizes, glowing softly as families and friends gather to celebrate.
Then, there are mooncakes, those delicious pastries traditionally filled with egg yolk and lotus seed paste. You will also find modern takes like chocolate or green tea flavours.
In Tai Hang, there’s something extra special: the Fire Dragon Dance. It’s an unforgettable street performance in which a dragon made from hundreds of incense sticks weaves through the neighbourhood, creating a smoky, magical spectacle that fills the streets with an ancient festival spirit.
- Kwung Tong: Learn to make your mooncakes in workshops.
- Sai Kung: Take a boat tour for moon-gazing.
- Cheung Chau: It’s a lunar glamping camping site in a ‘Star Gazing Geodesic Dome’.
- Watch Mini Tang Fire Dance.
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National Day
On the 1st of October, Hong Kong celebrates National Day with a well-earned public holiday and a breathtaking fireworks show over Victoria Harbour. Families, friends, and tourists gather along the waterfront to watch the sky light up in colourful bursts, filling the evening with festive energy.
It’s a night where everyone comes together to enjoy the spectacle and the sense of unity it brings to the city.
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New World Harbour Race
This iconic swimming race sees hundreds of participants swim across Victoria Harbour, where participants swim from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon, covering a 1 km distance between Wan Chai and Tsim Sha Tsui. The event celebrates the maritime heritage of Hong Kong, which allows everyone to experience the harbour’s views and energy from the water itself.
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Hong Kong Tennis Open
The Hong Kong Tennis Open is all about bringing people together to share in the love of sports and staying physically fit. Every year, over 50 of the world’s top female players compete in singles and doubles for a prize pool of $250,000.
From October 26 to November 3, 2024, Victoria Park Stadium will be swaying with excitement as sports enthusiasts gather to cheer on their favourite players and enjoy the incredible energy of the tournament.
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Hong Kong Open (Golf)
The Hong Kong Open is a prestigious annual golf tournament where international golf professionals compete at the Hong Kong Golf Club. It has been held since 1959 and is known for its challenging course and scenic views; the event attracts avid golf fans and tourists, providing a mix of competitive play and relaxed ambience.
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Wine and Dine Festival
Held in early November on the beautiful Central Harbourfront, the Wine and Dine Festival features an impressive array of international wines, spirits, and gourmet food. And live entertainment and food-and-wine pairing workshops add a feather to the hat. This festival offers tourists a taste of Hong Kong’s culinary culture amidst the beautiful skyline.
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Great European Carnival
The Great European Carnival, right by the Central Harbourfront near the Hong Kong Observation Wheel, is fun for everyone. It’s an exciting place to spend the day with thrilling rides, carnival games, street performers, and plenty of great photo spots.
Whether you are there for the rides, to try your luck at the games, or just to enjoy the lively atmosphere, the carnival has something for everyone to enjoy.
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Clockenflap
Hong Kong’s most significant annual outdoor music and arts festival is Clockenflap. It features an eclectic lineup of international and local musicians, DJs, and visual artists. With multiple stages, art installations, and interactive areas, it is a popular event for music fans and those seeking a lively, creative experience, and it makes the tourists go crazy.
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Hong Kong Ballet
The Hong Kong Ballet performs various classical and contemporary pieces throughout the autumn, with mesmerising choreography and world-class talent. These performances are staged at different venues like the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, allowing tourists to experience the grace and talent of one of Asia’s premier ballet companies.
Spring (March-April): The Second-best Time to Visit Hong Kong
Spring is the time when Hong Kong begins to warm up from the cooler winter months, with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 26°C. The weather becomes mild and comfortable. Though humidity begins to rise toward April, it can also bring occasional light rain, making it the best time to visit Hong Kong for outdoor activities.
The combination of comfortable weather and lush landscapes makes spring perfect for cultural festivals like Art Basel, the Asia Contemporary Art Show, and the Hong Kong Arts Festival.
List of Festivals and Events to Enjoy during Spring in Hong Kong
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Art Basel
Art Basel was started in 1970 by gallery owners and later became the central global gathering platform for art lovers, collectors, and artists. The fairs are conducted in cities like Basel, Hong Kong, Paris, Miami Beach, and its Online Viewing Rooms.
Art Basel connects people to meaningful art and supports galleries as they champion new and established artists. Their initiatives focus on creating unique, artist-driven experiences and uplifting local art communities.
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Art Central
Art Central is the highlight of Hong Kong Art Week. This event brings fresh, bold talent from Asia’s top galleries and renowned international artists under one roof. It is a place for art lovers with museum displays of pieces from renowned names mixed with experimental work by upcoming artists.
Art Central is about finding contemporary art that pushes boundaries and inspires curiosity among people and artists.
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Asia Contemporary Art Show
The Asia Contemporary Art Show presents a selected collection of modern and contemporary art from all over Asia, with artworks spanning a variety of mediums and styles. Unlike traditional gallery spaces, the Asia Contemporary Art Show is held in hotel rooms, giving art lovers a more intimate way of engaging with the pieces and connecting with the artists.
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Hong Kong Arts Festival
Hong Kong Arts Festival is one of Asia’s leading cultural events, which lasts over a month and includes theatre, dance, opera, and music performances. It features local and international artists and gives audiences access to classical and modern works.
This annual event celebrates the diversity of global arts and showcases Hong Kong as a cultural hub.
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Hong Kong International Film Festival
Like the Indian Film Festival, the Hong Kong International Film Festival is one of Asia’s oldest and largest film festivals. It screens a wide selection of films from Hong Kong, Asia, and around the world, ranging from independent works to big-budget productions.
This film festival has screenings, seminars, and discussions with filmmakers, catering to cinephiles and industry professionals alike.
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Hong Kong Sevens
The Hong Kong Sevens is an internationally renowned rugby tournament known for its high-energy atmosphere and festive spirit. Fans from around the globe come dressed in themed costumes to cheer on teams competing in short, intense rugby matches.
The Sevens is a must-see for sports enthusiasts and casual spectators alike, known for its unique mix of sports and party culture.
Conclusion
Hong Kong’s climate adds a unique layer to its vacation, and each season brings a unique experience to the city’s dynamic energy. From spring’s blooming warmth to summer’s lively rains, autumn’s refreshing breezes, and winter’s gentle cool, the weather of Hong Kong is as diverse as the city itself.
Knowing the best time to visit Hong Kong helps you enjoy everything this city offers- the art, cultural festivals, scenic harbour views, or serene hikes. So, plan your vacation, pack accordingly, and let Hong Kong surprise you with its charm and beauty in its best season.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Time to Visit Hong Kong
What is the best time to visit Hong Kong and Macau?
The best time to visit Hong Kong and Macau is during the fall (October to December), when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for exploring both cities. Also, in Spring (March and April), the weather is mild and comfortable.
When is the best time to visit Hong Kong from India?
Travelers from India will find October to December ideal for visiting Hong Kong, as the weather is comfortable and there are various festivals and cultural events to enjoy. Additionally, in December they have winter vacations in India.
What is the best time to visit Hong Kong, weather-wise?
For the most pleasant weather, visit between October and December. This period offers mild temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it great for outdoor activities.
What’s the best time of year to visit Hong Kong?
October through December is generally the best time of year to visit Hong Kong, thanks to comfortable weather, clear skies, and many seasonal events.
When is the best time to visit Disneyland in Hong Kong?
The best time to visit Hong Kong Disneyland is during the weekdays in November or early December, avoiding peak summer heat and crowds for a better experience.
When is the best time to visit Hong Kong for good weather?
Visit Hong Kong from October to early December for mild temperatures and low humidity, which is the ideal season for good weather.
When is the best time to visit Hong Kong for shopping?
Hong Kong’s shopping season peaks from December to February with winter sales, but you can also find great deals during the summer sale season from July to August.