January is the coldest month in Hong Kong, but it is still dry and mild usually. The average low and high temperatures are 10 °C (50 °F) and 23 °C (74 °F).
January is the driest month of the year and so sightseeing is much easier. This is one of the best months to visit Hong Kong.
January Weather Conditions in Hong Kong
Sunshine
You will experience more overcast and cloudy days in January. There are clear days, but you may need some luck to be able to enjoy some sunshine.
The ultraviolet radiation also drops to the lowest level of the entire year. You probably don't need to be concerned about sun protection.
Rain and Humidity
Precipitation in January is around 25 mm - the lowest level of the year. There are about 5 rainy days with some drizzle.
As the weather can be dry, windy, and cold, some skin care measures should be taken. Prepare or buy some face cream and hand cream, and use some before you start sightseeing.
If you travel with us, your guide will prepare plenty of bottled water for you. Drink as much as you can in the dry weather.
Low Temperatures and Frost
There are cold fronts, which bring a dry northerly wind. Occasionally, the temperature in the central city area may drop below 10°C (50°F), and very rarely there may be frost.
In higher altitudes of Hong Kong, such as the New Territories and the high ground, the temperature may drop below 0°C (32°F).
Allergen Warning
be aware many flowers bloom in January in Hong Kong: Chinese hibiscus, Turk's cap, Mexico star flower, camellia, etc. If needed, please prepare a mask or take some medicine.
What to Wear and Prepare in Hong Kong in January
Winter clothes are recommended: Light winter clothing should be sufficient for the daytime but something heavier might be needed for the evenings. A warm hat is useful in the cold and windy weather.
Prepare some face cream and hand cream.
If you have forgotten to pack something, you can easily purchase items in Hong Kong. Let your guide suggest some places that are also liked by locals.
Best Things to Do in Hong Kong in January
Enjoy the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year)
Chinese New Year in Hong KongThe Spring Festival is on the 1st day of the 1st lunar month (it generally falls in late January or February). It is the greatest and longest holiday festival in Hong Kong. It is generally a 3-day holiday.
During the festival, you can see the Chinese New Year Parade in the streets of Tsim Sha Tsui, temple fairs, and displays of lanterns in parks.
You can also enjoy an impressive fireworks show over Victoria Harbor, and visit a flower market on which you can buy gifts, holiday food, and tourist souvenirs and experience a local custom firsthand.
There are always Chinese New Year horse races on the 3rd day of Chinese New Year. Travelers can enter the public gallery of Sha Tin Racecourse for free with their passports.
Go Shopping
Hong Kong is a shopping paradise any time of the year, but due to the holidays in January and the abundance of "lai see" or lucky money given out during the Chinese New Year celebrations, there are sales galore as retailers compete harder than ever for the dollars in your pocket. Visit the shopping districts of Causeway Bay and Mong Kok for the best deals.
Experience Aberdeen
A sampan ride at AberdeenA wonderful way to spend a winter evening is to ride down to the coastal town of Aberdeen after sightseeing on Victoria Peak and have dinner on a famous floating seafood restaurant boat such as the Jumbo.
The weather in January is generally fine and dry and often sunny, and it can make for a nice walk down the peak to Aberdeen along the country park trails.
Visiting Hong Kong in January: Important Travel Tips and Popular Tours
January is in the shoulder season.
January is a shoulder season travel period. However, if the Spring Festival period falls in the end of January, hotel prices will be significantly increased. Tickets for flights to Hong Kong and between Hong Kong and destinations in Chinese mainland may be difficult to get. So you'd better book in advance.
The first 3 days of Chinese New Year are a public holiday in Hong Kong. Banks and some public service agencies are temporarily out of service during this time. Street markets and small shops are closed while public transportation operates as usual. Most tourist attractions, including theme parks, will be open as usual.
Recommended Hong Kong Tours
- Half-Day Hong Kong Island Tour: You will admire the ultimate view of Hong Kong Island's renowned skyline and explore a floating fishing village at Aberdeen.
- One-Day Lantau Island and Giant Buddha Tour: This tour combines breathtaking natural beauty and fascinating Buddhist culture.
See more Hong Kong tours. Please feel free to let us know your interests and requirements to customize a tour for you.