When to go

Best time to visit China, the weather month by month

Q: What is the best month for a first trip?

October, from the 8th, and April. The weather is good in Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai at the same time. May and September are very good too.

Q: Where do these figures come from?

They are 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration. Every year is different, so check the forecast a week before you go.

The best months to visit China, the weather in each city month by month, and the holidays to avoid, like Golden Week and Chinese New Year.

The best months

April, May, September, October and November. Mild temperatures and clearer skies in most cities. March, June and December work too. January, February, July and August are the hardest, with cold in the north or humid heat. The figures in this guide are 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration.

Spring, March to May

In April, Beijing averages a high of 21 °C and a low of 9, and Shanghai 21 and 13. May is already warm, with highs of 28 °C in Beijing. It is a good time for Xi'an and Zhangjiajie. Guilin and Yangshuo are rainy, with about 18 wet days a month in April and May.

Summer, June to August

It is hot and humid almost everywhere. Chongqing and Zhangjiajie reach highs of 34 °C in July and August, and Shanghai 33. In Beijing, July is the wettest month, with about 13 rainy days. Shanghai usually gets heavy rain from mid-June to mid-July. Start early and rest at midday.

Autumn, September to November

The best season for almost everything. In October, Beijing reaches highs of about 20 °C and Shanghai 24. Guilin has about 7 rainy days in October, its driest month. November turns cool in the north, with highs of 11 °C in Beijing, and some tickets drop, like the Forbidden City, from 60 to 40 yuan.

Winter, December to February

Beijing is cold but dry, with a high of 3 °C and a low of −7 in January and very few rainy days. Shanghai reaches about 9 °C and Guilin 12. There are fewer people and several tickets cost less. From January to March the Li River cruise is shorter because the water is low.

Holidays to avoid

On these dates half of China goes travelling. Trains, hotels and sights fill up and prices go up.

Chinese New Year. 6 February 2027, and the weeks before
Labour Day. 1 to 5 May
Golden Week. 1 to 7 October. Better to arrive from the 8th

The route in this guide

10 daysThe golden triangleThe Terracotta Army between the Great Wall and the BundBeijing · Xi'an · ShanghaiFrom 830 € per person · Comfortable

Frequently asked questions

What is the best month for a first trip?

October, from the 8th, and April. The weather is good in Beijing, Xi'an and Shanghai at the same time. May and September are very good too.

What if I can only go in summer?

You can. Visit sights early, rest at midday and carry an umbrella. Beijing reaches highs of about 32 °C in July, a little less than Chongqing or Zhangjiajie at 34. If you struggle with heat, save those two for another trip.

When is Beijing coldest?

From December to February. In January the average runs from −7 to 3 °C, with very little rain or snow. With a good coat, the Forbidden City and the Great Wall with few people have their own charm.

Where do these figures come from?

They are 1991 to 2020 averages from the China Meteorological Administration. Every year is different, so check the forecast a week before you go.

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