Hong Kong in August

Hong Kong in August

If you're thinking of visiting Hong Kong in July, check out our comprehensive guide so you know what events you can attend, the best attractions you can't afford to miss, as well as what to pack and what to expect weather-wise.

Including:

  • What is the wettest month in Hong Kong?
  • Can I drink the water in Hong Kong?
  • How many days in Hong Kong is enough?
  • Hong Kong in August: Weather
  • Hong Kong in August: What to pack
  • August Events in Hong Kong
  • The Best August Attractions in Hong Kong

What is the wettest month in Hong Kong?

With an average of 80% of Hong Kong's rain falling between May and September, there's already a 1 in 5 chance that August is the wettest month of the year. That chance further increases when you take into account Hong Kong's tropical summers. And, yes, that chance further increases to 100% when you find out that, typically, August is the wettest month in Hong Kong. Could we have just come out and said that? Yes. Why didn't we? Where's the fun in that?

Can I drink the water in Hong Kong?

While we wouldn't recommend you start guzzling down the downpour you may experience on your August vacation, the good news is that drinking water in Hong Kong is one of the safest in the world. So feel free to drink from the tap like a child, or at the very least, fill up your glass or water bottle.

How many days in Hong Kong is enough?

While it's possible to speedrun a Hong Kong visit in a couple of days, you should dedicate at least three days to ensure you can see all the city's best bits. If you plan on making a trip outside of the city, to Macau, mainland China, or one of Hong Kong's many islands, up that number by a day for each place on your itinerary.

 

Hong Kong in August: Weather

Hong Kong in August

The good news is that August is Hong Kong's hottest months, with temperatures hitting average highs of 90°F or more, and lows of around 77°F, expect a sweaty time when you visit.

Those high temperatures are compounded in a couple of ways. Firstly, the sun is often clear of clouds, meaning UV levels are off the charts. Secondly, Hong Kong's tropical summers ensure high humidity throughout, with levels well in excess of 80% most of the time.

And that humidity is also linked to August's excessive rainfall, which we've already discussed is the highest of the year. How high? Well, an average of 18 inches of rain falls over 17 days, so that's an average of over an inch of rain a day. That's a lot of rain! These come in many forms - thundery showers, your classic rain showers, and, potentially, typhoons.

Now, the chance of a typhoon is low, and Hong Kong is prepared for them, but there is a chance a typhoon cancels flights, or at least your day's plans if you're already in the city. As such, it's worth keeping an eye on the weather in the run-up to your trip.

 

Hong Kong in August: What to pack

Hong Kong in August

So it's hot, humid, and very wet, so you've got to pack smartly. T-shirts, shorts, skirts, and summer dresses should be at the top of your list, as well as a metric ton of deodorant. Not antiperspirant; if you don't sweat, you're going to heat up like a little hot strawberry.

Pack a ton of sunblock if you're going to stray into Hong Kong's peak sun, and pack a hat and sunnies to keep cool when you do.

For the rain, a light waterproof or umbrella is a must. Couple that with sandals or airy shoes you don't mind getting soaked, and you're golden.

 

August Events in Hong Kong: Seven Sisters Festival

Hong Kong in August

Hong Kong's answer to Valentine's Day typically falls in August but is dependent on the lunar calendar. If you luck out, you too can enjoy the Seven Sisters Festival!

If you visit Hong Kong during the festival in August, you should visit the Lovers' Rock on Bowen Road in Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island, and pray for a romantically successful and full life. Because why wouldn't you?

 

August Events in Hong Kong: The Hungry Ghost Festival

Hong Kong in August

Another event that can fall in August, depending on that pesky Lunar calendar, is the Hungry Ghost Festival. Known as Yu Lan Cultural Festival in the native tongue, it's a time to celebrate your ancestors, so light a candle for a grandparent or great-grandparent.

Once respects are paid, head to Victoria Park to enjoy some live performances, workshops, and even some high-tech art on display. There's even some LARPing if you're into that. Yes, that is Live Action Roleplaying.

 

The Best August Attractions in Hong Kong: Macau Tower

Hong Kong in August

Embrace breathtaking views of Macau from within the iconic Macau Tower, a prominent feature of the city skyline soaring to a remarkable 1,109 feet.

A swift 60-second ascent in the glass-fronted elevator elevates you to a thrilling 731 feet, where the tower's observation deck, with its three-story glass windows, offers a mesmerizing 360-degree panorama.

Marvel at the futuristic Macau skyline, the gleaming Pearl River Delta, and the marvel of modern engineering, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.

The spectacle extends to uninterrupted vistas of the Macau islands, reaching as far as Hengqin, Zhuhai, and the neighboring Chinese mainland. It's an unparalleled experience of Macau's extraordinary landscapes.

The Best August Attractions in Hong Kong: Legend Heroes Park

Hong Kong in August

Embark on a journey into the enchanting realm of Legend Heroes Park, a haven for VR skydiving and classic arcade gaming.

Enjoy a two-hour adventure in four dynamic zones. Immerse yourself in the adrenaline-fueled Arena, offering the latest VR experiences—from high-speed shooting games to thrilling car chases and hilarious bumper car chaos. Prime beckons with interactive cinematic escapades, while DPlay brings back the charm of old-school arcades and tabletop classics. Challenge friends at the 8-player PC station or indulge in one-on-one duels with air hockey, penalty shootouts, archery, and more.

Need a break? Visit the Style Zone for a latte served by a robot barista and explore an incredible mini-mall featuring renowned brands like Hello Kitty, Pinkfong, Silverlit, and Lego, ensuring endless joy for every kid.

 

And that's everything you need to know about visiting Hong Kong in August. If any of the above suggestions don't take you fancy, never fear; Go City's got you covered! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of Hong Kong's best bits for one low price! Grab a Hong Kong pass and see it all this summer!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year
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Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year

Many countries in East Asia celebrate Chinese New Year. And, considering Hong Kong is now a part of China, it's hardly groundbreaking news to discover that they do too. No matter where you are, Chinese New Year is about family. Dom Toretto would be proud. It's a time for families to come together, be thankful for what they have, and look forward to the future with hope. So, if you're visiting Hong Kong over the Chinese New Year, what will you be able to get up to? Below, we'll explore all the best things to do in Hong Kong for the Chinese New Year. We'll also give you an overview of 2024's Zodiac animal and what that means to people born in their year! Including: When is the Chinese New Year? What does the Year of the Dragon signify? Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year Chinese New Year Parade Victoria Harbour Fireworks Chinese New Year Horse Races Spring Lantern Festival When is the Chinese New Year? In 2024, the Chinese New Year is on February 10. This year, that means it's the Year of the Dragon. If you celebrated Chinese New Year in 2023 or before, you'll notice that February 10 is a different date from years past. Well observed! Chinese New Year isn't celebrated on a set date but follows the Chinese Lunar Calendar, which, as you can gather from the 'lunar' title, depends on the moon's cycles. However, as a vague rule of thumb, Chinese New Year typically falls between 20 and 50 days after the Gregorian calendar's New Year, which is January 1. If you didn't know the calendar used in the West was called the Gregorian calendar, well, you're welcome. What does the Year of the Dragon signify? In the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon represents power, honor, success, and luck. But there are other variables here too, which are determined by the year. For 2024, the Year of the Dragon is combined with the wood element to create the Year of the Wood Dragon. Wood also connotes two additional traits - curiosity and creativity. People born on this specific date are said to be go-getters, developing unique ideas and then zoning in on them. Driven to succeed, they're often predisposed to a career in business, though, as they're also said to be funny and diplomatic, perhaps their path is not set in stone. Of course, non-believers may consider all of this complete conjecture, but for those who do believe, it's clear why being born on the Year of the Wood Dragon is considered a blessing! Things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year Right, enough backstory; let's get to the main event! If you're looking for things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year, these are the big hitters no traveler should miss! Chinese New Year Parade The Chinese New Year Parade is one of the most popular New Year events in Hong Kong. Drawing crowds of thousands every year who line the streets in Tsim Sha Tsui, why not join them and witness the countless colorful floats, lively dragons, traditional Chinese dancers, and bands that make the parade so special? Things kick off pretty late (typically, the parade starts at 8PM), but festivities in the area normally start at 6PM. If you want to get a good spot, you should definitely get there a few hours early. Perhaps the best course of action is to spend the day exploring the nearby sights and landmarks. That way, you won't be "wasting" time waiting for the parade standing idly. But what's nearby? Well, Hong Kong's biggest mall, Harbour City, just so happens to be nearby. So, if you fancy doing some light shopping - you won't want a ton of bags with you when watching the parade - it's the perfect time. If you have no interest in that, check out the Avenue of Stars, Kowloon Park, Nathan Road, or the Temple Street Night Market for some snacks instead. Disclaimer: In 2023, the Chinese New Year Parade was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It's still being determined whether the parade will take place in 2024. As such, it's worth checking online ahead of your trip, just to make sure the parade, as well as other Chinese New Year events, are canceled. Chinese New Year Fireworks Over Victoria Harbour On the second day of the Spring Festival, Victoria Harbour typically holds a massive firework display. Lasting around 25 minutes, it usually coincides with the daily Symphony of Lights, which elevates the spectacle to new heights. For the best views, head to Tsim Sha Tsui, Central, Wan Chai, by boat, or from The Peak. Disclaimer: Like the parade, fireworks were canceled in 2023. Check ahead online to see if the fireworks are back on. Chinese New Year Horse Races Horse races might not be your cup of tea, but for more than 100,000 crowded into Sha Tin Racecourse on day three of the Chinese New Year, it's one of the most exciting things about the celebrations. But these aren't your average, run-of-the-mill horse races. Instead, this special day of races is organized by the charity 'Hong Kong Jockey Club', and the day's entertainment raises money for good causes. Expect races, traditional shows, performances, and the opening ceremony, which features plenty of the color red - a staple of Chinese New Year. Disclaimer: Like the parade and fireworks, the New Year horse races were canceled in 2023. Check ahead online to see if the fireworks are back on. The Spring Lantern Festival And at the end of it all, you can see out the Chinese New Year at the Spring Lantern Festival. Hong Kong will fill up with thousands upon thousands of colorful lanterns, and you'll also catch live performances, carnivals, and much more as you wander the city. So those are the biggest and best things to do in Hong Kong for Chinese New Year! If you plan to spend a good few days in the city, why not fill up your itinerary with fun with Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Christmas in Hong Kong
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Christmas in Hong Kong

Want to make the most of Christmas in Hong Kong? Check out our picks of all the best Christmas entertainment in the city and make it a memorable one! Including: How is Christmas celebrated in Hong Kong? Is Hong Kong good for Christmas? Is Hong Kong cold in December? How to celebrate Christmas in Hong Kong How is Christmas celebrated in Hong Kong? On Christmas Day in Hong Kong, Christians can attend church services in both English and Chinese. They're held at different times of day, so it's worth checking ahead to make sure you attend the right one! As for specific Christmas events, we'll get into those a little further down. Is Hong Kong good for Christmas? Christmas - and December as a whole - are great times to visit Hong Kong! The weather is cool and dry, and there are a ton of things to do and see. If you were worried that Hong Kong was bereft of Christmas cheer, worry no more. Is Hong Kong cold in December? With average highs of 70°F and average lows of 59°F, December is the most temperate time of year in Hong Kong. For most of us, even the low end borders on t-shirt weather, so maybe leave the Christmas jumpers at home. It's also the driest month of the year, so pack appropriately. Christmas in Hong Kong: A Disney Christmas Last year, Hong Kong Disneyland hosted A Disney Christmas, a unique seasonal experience from mid-November until January 2. And this year, it's no different. If you want the perfect mix of live music, food, and ceremony, look no further! The Disney Live in Concert! event is arguably the jewel in the crown, with a medley of genres taking the stage, from Jazz to classical, and surely some Christmas jingles and carols thrown in for good measure. There's also the Mickey and Friends Christmastime Ball, Santa Goofy's Magical Snowfall, and a tree-lighting ceremony hosted by a guest of honor. Perfect Christmas fun for all the family! Christmas in Hong Kong: Noah's Ark Noah's Ark is another spot that's perfect if you've got your little ones in tow. This family-friendly haven offers a blend of traditional and innovative Christmas activities that kids will adore. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season with Nativity Scene performances as well as seasonal cross-overs like Bear's Sushi Production Class, where your little ones will learn to cook up a storm, and Trolltech Sports Training School, which is a fun way for them to stay active. Of course, we have to mention the Ark itself. A 1:1 recreation of Noah's boat from the good book, it's quite the sight. Whether you're a Christian or otherwise, the size and scope of the Ark will blow you away. Inside, you'll find tons of interactive exhibits, restaurants, and even a hotel if you fancy staying over. Christmas in Hong Kong: Symphony of Lights Every night, Victoria Harbour treats visitors to a mesmerizing holiday light show known as the Symphony of Lights, and this year's display promises to be even more spectacular with the addition of lasers and LED screens. For the ultimate viewing experience, head to the Avenue of Stars promenade, where you can witness the show, complete with narrations and music by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra. Alternatively, savor a meal on a restaurant boat or enjoy the Symphony of Lights from the deck of the iconic Star Ferry. Loudspeakers across the harbor broadcast synchronized music and a captivating narrative to enhance proceedings. During December, many buildings join the festivities by showcasing their unique Christmas light displays, adding to the architectural choreography that graces the harbor, making it a magical holiday season in Hong Kong. Christmas in Hong Kong: Pulse 3D Light Show Over the Christmas period, Hong Kong's famous Symphony of Lights is also joined by a high-tech laser audiovisual extravaganza called Pulse 3D Light Show, which illuminates the area surrounding the clock tower at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui, conveniently located near the Star Ferry Terminal. This mesmerizing show surpasses expectations and has drawn crowds of spectators. Said lasers create a spectacle like no other, creating moving images that demand a photo or ten. Christmas in Hong Kong: Ocean Park Christmas Sensation From mid-December through to the beginning of January, Hong Kong's Ocean Park puts on its own Christmas shenanigans, with a Christmas Market, a visual show, magic, and more throughout each day. Visitors will also be treated to a giant Christmas tree, artificial snow, and a Santa's Grotto where they can sit on the big man's lap and tell him all their secret present desires! Perfect for kids and big kids alike, nothing will put you in a festive mood quite like a classic Christmas village. Christmas in Hong Kong: Sales and Markets And, finally, let's talk about shopping because, whether you like it or not, Christmas has become a consumer's paradise! And, of course, Hong Kong gets in on the act. You'll notice a significant drop in prices, as local stores and malls are eager to clear their backlog of unsold products, making room for new inventory. That doesn't mean you won't pick up any goodies - you'll just need to keep an eye out for worthwhile bargains. Typically, these sales take place in the run-up to Christmas and last all the way until Chinese New Year, so if you don't have time before December 25, you needn't worry. Shoppers seeking Christmas gifts like electronics, clothing, and other common items can explore street markets like the Ladies Market in Mongkok, offering a wide range of products from clothing and electronics to souvenirs and jewelry. For a diverse shopping experience, Temple Street near the harbor offers various products for tourists and features numerous open-air restaurants serving delicious Chinese cuisine. So, shop about and see what's good! And that's everything you need to know to make the most of Christmas in Hong Kong! If you're looking for some non-seasonal cheer to amp up your visit, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of the city's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Hong Kong in June
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Hong Kong in June

Are you planning a trip to Hong Kong in June? Check out our guide to the city in the summer and see whether June is the perfect month for your vacation! Including: Is June a good time to visit Hong Kong? What is the cheapest month to go to Hong Kong? Is Hong Kong an expensive country? Hong Kong in June: Weather Hong Kong in June: What to pack June Events in Hong Kong The Best June Attractions in Hong Kong Is June a good time to visit Hong Kong? If you're looking for high heat, sticky humidity, and the chance of heavy showers to cool off, then June is a great time to visit Hong Kong! Just be prepared for it, which we cover in our weather section down below. What is the cheapest month to go to Hong Kong? October is the cheapest month to visit Hong Kong, so if you're traveling in June, you're all out of luck. However, the next cheapest time is between May and June, so yay! Why, you ask? Well, it's mainly because most of Hong Kong's biggest festivals don't fall within that period. However, that doesn't mean you won't find a ton of fun things to do on your summer vacation. Is Hong Kong an expensive country? To live, yes, Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities to live in on Earth. However, for fellow travelers, with the right timing and research, you can make your Hong Kong vacation more than affordable. Shop around for deals on accommodation, pick where you eat, and go with us to get into all of the city's best bits for one low price!   And that's everything you need to know to make your June vacation in Hong Kong one to remember. If some of the above suggestions don't take your fancy, don't worry; Go City's got you covered. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see the best of the rest for one low price! So grab a Hong Kong attraction pass and make the most of your summer visit!
Dom Bewley

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