Hong Kong In May 2025: Events, Festivals And Things To Do In Summer
The summer season is glorious in Hong Kong. The city lives and breathes indigenous culture on every street and turn. The Buddhist backdrop, the tall skyscrapers and the endless hoots of the ferry create a unique experience that makes Hong Kong in May a perfect getaway.It is not just a cluttered city but also filled with natural parks and breathtaking scenery. The healthy Asian cuisine makes for an ideal companion with unique brews of tea and beer. The city also has a fully functional public transport network, which makes transportation a breeze.
Weather In Hong Kong In May
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The month of May marks the start of summer in Hong Kong. The temperature in Hong Kong in May can go as high as 29 degrees centigrade. The nights are also relatively warm, with lows at twenty-three degrees. The City sees sunshine for around thirteen hours, making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors. Be sure to dress for the weather with loose-cotton clothes and enough sunscreen. Keep a light raincoat as the island city experiences unexpected rains for around 12-15 days of the month. The humidity is also high, so only go if you know how to cope with the sweat.
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Events In Hong Kong In May
Weather aside, the city of Hong Kong is especially special in May. The open skies and sunshine create perfect climate in Hong Kong in May to explore the outdoors. Hong Kong in May is also sprinkled with many festivals and surprises that make your trip an ethnic excursion. One can spend hours and be part of the locals as they welcome these festivals.
1. Buddha’s Birthday
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As the city has many influences of Buddhism, the city lights up during the birthday of Lord Budha. On the 12th of May, the city has a fragrance and sparkle of spirituality. The festival is also called the “Bathing of the Buddha” festival. As the legend goes, the birth of Buddha was commemorated by nine dragons bathing him. This is the reason many devotes across the city repeat this ritual. As a tourist, you can visit the Po Lin Monastery, watch the celebrations and ceremonies, and be a part of this great day.
2. Cheung Chau Bun Festival
The festival is celebrated for five days on the island of Cheung Chau, and the last day of this routine is the biggest carnival of all time. The island was said to have been hit by a horrible plague at some point. The people prayed at the Pak Tai Temple for the revival of the community, and each year since then, this spiritual belief has been celebrated.
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3. Art Fair
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If you wish to see the display of a vast assortment of art from around the world, this is the place to be. The tickets are held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre at a price as low as $12 USD. The art varies from paintings, sculptures and even photographs. These are the ideal spots to experience Asian art in all its glow. Art comes from all over Asia, including Singapore, Thailand, and Japan.
The city is equally affordable in the month of May at any other time of the year. In May, Hong Kong provides the ideal weather for enjoying the outdoors and cosmopolitan offerings. Most travellers do not have to pay for a visa. Hong Kong gives you a travel permit for 14 days against a return ticket and the process can be done online. An ideal holiday in Hong Kong will cost around $140 USD per week per person. This is the cost of a stay, food, and travel. Local transport is quite affordable, and so is the food. If you wish you cut back on your spending, then it’s about finding the right hotel and booking them ahead of time.
5 Places To Visit In Hong Kong In May
Here is the list of places to visit in Hong Kong that you shouldn’t le slide away from your itinerary.
1. Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
A steep hike but a mesmerizing outcome. The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery or locally called Man Fat Sze, is one of the unique wonders of Hong Kong. As the name suggests, this temple in Sha Tin has over 10000 Buddha idols. The complex does not home any monks or classes but is maintained by the locals. The temple was built as long back as 1951 but still stands its ground in prime condition.
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2. Ngong Ping 360
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The Ngong Ping 360 is one of the latest attractions that has taken travellers by storm. This simple cable car ride to the top of Ngong Ping from downtown Hong Kong has given tours the fun of a mountain experience in a city. The ride takes twenty-five minutes as it covers around six kilometres. The ropeway gives an undisrupted panoramic view of the whole city below.
3. Po Lin Monastery
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The Po Lin Monastery is home to one of the biggest Buddha statues in the world. The statue is so huge that the place is often called the “Big Buddha.” This thirty-five-meter wonder sits on a beautifully designed lotus base. At night, this bronze statue shimmers in the light and can be seen from afar or up close. One needs to climb around 280 steps to get to the base of this statue. Hong Kong in May also lets you experience the biggest Buddha birthday celebration here.
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4. The Peak
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Popularised as one of the most significant attractions in the region, the Peak is the highest point on the island of Hong Kong, and it offers a stunning view of the whole city. Ever since colonial times, this has been on the list of every traveller to Hong Kong. Even in the summer, one can experience the cliffside cold breeze and enjoy the spectacle. The best time to be here is during the sunset to see the city transform from a sea of buildings to a glowing gem.
5. Repulse Bay Beach
Let the true spirit of vacationing sink in with a visit to Repulse Bay Beach. The beach offers clean waters and undisturbed beauty. At peak temperatures, the waters might cause tanning, but the beach has a lot to offer, if not the swimming. The surroundings are filled with colonial-style structures, all home to some of the finest restaurants and pubs in the area. There is also a garden by the beach that is great for family reactions.
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5 Activities To Do In Hong Kong In May
There are many things to enjoy on your Hong Kong trip during the month of May. Take a look!
1. Symphony Light Show
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The Symphony of Lights is a daily light and sound show awarded by the Genius Book of World Records for the biggest special of its kind. At the Victoria Harbor, space transforms into an awesome multimedia show with all the buildings surrounding it also being part of the display. The combination of local music, lights, and lasers — this wonder has become the heart of Hong Kong tourism.
2. Disneyland
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Do you want to visit Disneyland but not be part of the clutter and hype of the first one in Anaheim, California? Disneyland in Hong Kong is just as good or even better. If you’re travelling with your family, then this a place you have to add to the list. Filled with fun rides, games, activities for kids and a never-ending array of surprises. Disneyland also offers a resort stay if you want to spend a few nights in the happiest place on earth.
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3. Watch Horse Racing
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Horse racing is a celebrated sport in Hong Kong for over 100 years now. Hong Kong in May is almost at the point where the reason is about to start its conclusion leg, and the air is filled with thrills. The Happy Valley or the Sha Tin tracks are more than just a spot to see a race, but they are a hub of activities and fun-filled events.
4. Hike the MacLehose Trail
The city of Hong Kong is not all cities and lights. The MacLehose Trail is a hundred kilometres long stretch that offers travellers a scenic hike in the summer sun. If you have a love for the outdoors and wish to make the most of it, then this is the go-to option. There are many paths to pick fro,m so find the length and toughness you want for yourself and stick to it. Your hikes can be from one hour to five hours, depending on your will.
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5. Cycling in Nam Sang Wai
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If you are looking for a day in the open air and cycle around some untapped greenery, then the trail at Nam Sang Wai will surely be to your liking. The trail has wetlands filled with rare birds, plants and incents. You will also spot some wildlife if you are lucky. Start from the Ferry spot and then go along the river until you reach the Yuen Long town centre. Make stops and enjoy this day-long adventure.
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Conclusion
The city of Hong Kong in May or any other season is a melting pot of culture and lifestyles. Be it a solo trip, a group of friends or a luxury trip to Hong Kong, the city is ideal for all of them. You can make the most of this trip if you set your budget to it. Be sure to make all your bookings ahead of time to get the best deals. The tourism board in Hong Kong has always strived to make the city the best experience for all travellers.
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FAQs
Does it rain a lot in Hong Kong in May?
Yes, you can expect rain showers in Hong Kong in May. The weather remains hot anf humid but marks the starting of rainy season in Hong Kong.
What are the best things to do in Hong Kong in May?
Some of the top things to do in Hong Kong in May is witnessing Symphony Light show, enjoying Disneyland, watching horse riding, hiking on the MacLehose trail and cycling in Nam Sang Wai.
Are there any festivals or events in Hong Kong in May?
Yes, you can witness the grand celebration of Cheung Chau Bun Festival, French May Arts Festival and Buddha’s Birthday during May month.
Is May a good time for shopping in Hong Kong?
If you want to explore Hong Kong’s serenity and delightful shopping experience in summer months then May is a wonderful time to visit. During this month, you can attend various events and enjoy shopping from local markets and stalls.
What is the weather like in Hong Kong in May?
Hong Kong in May temperatures range from 18 °C (64 °F) and 35 °C (95 °F). You may also experience occasional rain showers. However, it is an ideal time to witness Hong Kong’s lively festivals.
How many days do you need in Hong Kong?
To explore major gems of Hong Kong, you must plan your visit for 4-5 days. You must add Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and Disneyland to your itinerary.
Is Hong Kong visa free for Indians?
Yes, Indian can enjoy visa-free visit to Hong Kong up to 14 days. However, they have to complete and submit a Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) online before embarking on the trip.
Where to stay in Hong Kong?
Some of the best places to stay in Hong Kong are Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel, Ibis Hong Kong Central & Sheung Wan, Disney's Hollywood Hotel, and The Cityview.
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A writer by choice, a photographer by passion, a seasonal sailor preferably monsoons and a pilot when the wind is just right! When not in the city, I’m often found chasing sunrises in the mountains or sunsets at the beaches!
