Hong Kong Weather in January
Although January is usually Hong Kong’s coldest month, the cold is mild and the low humidity makes for a great month to visit Hong Kong. This combination makes sightseeing much easier
Averages for Hong Kong Weather in January
- Average Temperature: 16º Celsius (61º Fahrenheit)
- Average High Temperature: 18ºC (64ºF)
- Average Low Temperature: 13ºC (55ºF)
- Average Rainfall: 21 Millimeters
- Rainy Days: 6
- Hours of Direct Sunlight: 5
- Average Humidity: 73%
- Typhoons: None (not impossible, but none are on record)
Is January a good time to visit Hong Kong?
Hong Kong in January is cool, mild, and great for the outdoors. Camping might get a little cold without a thick sleeping bag and warm clothes, but should be comfortable over all. The low rainfall and humidity should be appreciated when possible.
For the less naturally inclined, Hong Kong is a great place for the indoors in January, especially considering that many businesses have Spring Festival (which falls in January of February) special offers.
What to wear in Hong Kong in January?
The locals may be wrapped up like they are headed for an arctic expedition, but most visitors from temperate and seasonal climates will find the average temperature pretty mild.
Light Winter Wear
A light jacket, sweater, long trousers, and maybe a warm hat should be just fine for January weather. The humidity is always high, which means if the weather drops down to a serious low (10ºC, or 50ºF is considered a cold snap) the coldness can permeate the mostly concrete buildings and cause pretty much everything to be uncomfortable.
Be prepared to wear your winter layers indoors as well as outdoors.
Special Considerations
Sunlight is at its yearly low, with Hong Kong receiving less direct sunlight in January than the rest of the year combined with mostly overcast weather. Sun protection isn’t necessary in January, as it is throughout most of the year.
Remember to stay hydrated. Especially if you are doing outdoors work, the cooler, drier wind can dehydrate you faster than the usual swampy climate, so be prepared to drink extra water. Some moisturizing cream is also a pretty good idea January.
Holidays and Events in Hong Kong in January
New Years Day
Date: Jan 1st
Location: City-Wide
Many businesses across the city have January first holiday offers and specials in the first days of the New Year. There are also various celebrations and festivities.
Lunar New Years
Date: January 25th, 2020
Parade Along Nathan Road
There is usually a New Year’s Parade along Nathan, Salisbury, Canton and Haiphong Roads. There are floats, dancing dragons, dancers, and bands.
Victoria Harbor
The day after Lunar New Year, there are massive fireworks displays along Victoria Harbor. Get a seat at a restaurant or bar overlooking the harbor for a great, relaxed view.
Sha Tin Race Course
The third day after Lunar New Year are the Horse Races. This Hong Kong tradition sees thousands of spectators crowd into Sha Tin Racecourse for the Chinese New Year Cup. Their are also separate New Years Festivities put on by the Jockey Club, including an opening show, and entertainment.
City-Wide
Lucky money, or “Lai See” pervades the city on Lunar New Year. Restaurants, retailers, bars, and more get in on the action with all kinds of sales, offers, and specials. Causeway Bay, Kowloon, and Tsim Sha Tsui have lots of mid range goods at an extreme markdown for the Lunar New Year.
For luxury goods, check out Central, SoHo, and Admiralty.