Understanding Weather in China: When to Visit & What to Pack
May 20, 2024
China is a vast country with incredibly diverse climates, so the weather you’ll experience can vary significantly depending on where and when you go. Here’s a seasonal overview to help you pack appropriately and plan your trip effectively.
Seasonal Weather Overview & Packing Tips
Spring (March - May)
- North (e.g., Beijing): Relatively dry, can be windy. Temps rise from 5-15°C (41-59°F) to 15-25°C (59-77°F). Chilly mornings/evenings.
- Note: Dust storms possible early spring.
- Pack: Layers (t-shirt, sweater, light jacket/windbreaker), scarf (for dust).
- East/South (e.g., Shanghai, Guangzhou): Often humid, occasional rain. Temps pleasant, 15-25°C (59-77°F).
- Note: Unpredictable rain, increasing humidity.
- Pack: Umbrella/raincoat, light layers, breathable fabrics.
Summer (June - August)
- North (e.g., Beijing, Xi’an): Hot and sunny, often 30-35°C+ (86-95°F+). Occasional heavy thunderstorms.
- Note: Intense heat, sudden downpours.
- Pack: Light-colored, loose cotton/linen clothing, high-SPF sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, waterproof jacket/umbrella.
- East/South (e.g., Shanghai, Hong Kong): Hot and extremely humid, 28-33°C (82-91°F), feels hotter. Typhoon season in the south (May-Nov).
- Note: High humidity, risk of typhoons.
- Pack: Very light/breathable clothing, umbrella, perhaps a small fan.
Autumn (September - November)
Often considered the best time to visit most of China.
- North (e.g., Beijing): Cooler, drier, clear skies. Temps drop from 25-30°C (77-86°F) in Sept to 10-15°C (50-59°F) in Nov. Beautiful foliage.
- Note: Temperatures drop quickly, especially at night.
- Pack: Layers (t-shirt, sweater, medium jacket).
- East/South (e.g., Shanghai, Guangzhou): Pleasant temps (20-25°C / 68-77°F), less humid than summer.
- Note: Still warm, mosquitoes might linger.
- Pack: Light layers, maybe a light jacket for evenings, mosquito repellent.
Winter (December - February)
- North (e.g., Beijing, Harbin): Cold and dry. Beijing -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Harbin much colder (-10°C to -30°C / 14°F to -22°F) with snow/ice.
- Note: Harsh cold, dry air, big indoor/outdoor temp difference.
- Pack: Warm winter coat, thermal underwear, hat, gloves, scarf, warm socks, lip balm.
- East/South (e.g., Shanghai, Guangzhou, Hainan): Milder, can be damp. Shanghai 0-10°C (32-50°F). Guangzhou rarely below 10°C (50°F). Hainan Island is tropical and warm (20-25°C / 68-77°F).
- Note: Lack of central heating in some southern buildings can make indoors feel chilly and damp.
- Pack: Medium coat/jacket, sweater, layers. Warm pajamas for potentially cool hotel rooms in central/south (excluding Hainan).
General Tip: Always check the specific weather forecast for your destinations closer to your travel date, as conditions can vary.
