When is the Best Time to Visit China in 2025?

China has a history of 5,000 years. Both its natural and cultural landscapes have unique charms, attracting tourists from all over the world to visit here. To get a better travel experience in China, you need to first understand the good time to travel to China.

China is mainly divided into the north and south, with diverse and very different climate types due to the influence of latitude and monsoon. Usually, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best times to visit China, suitable for outdoor travel. Summer and winter also have hidden gems, such as beach vacations, mountain hiking or ice and snow festivals.

In this guide, we will take you to understand the climate of China from spring to winter, so that you can prepare for the trip to China easily and happily!

China’s Climate Overview: Understanding the Seasons

China's large area and diverse terrain mean that there are many different types of climate in China. The north of China has a continental climate with cold winters and hot summers, while the south has a subtropical climate with mild winters and hot and humid summers. Here's a quick view of the four seasons:

Spring (March to May): Usually the best time to visit most of China. Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and great for city tours and rural hiking.

Summer (June to August): Hot, humid, and rainy - especially in the south. Cities like Chongqing can reach 40°C, but the mountains stay cool.

Autumn (September to November): Fresh air, golden scenery, and clear skies. Great for hiking and outdoor photography!

Winter (December to February): Cold in the north, the best time to enjoy the snow, with cities like Harbin hosting their famous Ice and Snow Festival, while temperatures in the south are relatively mild.

The table below lists the average monthly climate conditions in northern and southern China - the specific values may vary from city to city, and these data are for reference only.

Northern China (e.g., Beijing, Harbin)

Southern China (e.g., Guangzhou, Hong Kong)

10 Days China Tour to Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Shanghai

Beijing - Xi'an - Guilin - Yangshuo - Shanghai

Best Time to Visit China: September to November and March to May

The best time to travel to China is from March to May or from September to November. These two seasons have mild temperatures and pleasant weather, which are very suitable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring (March to May)

March to May is China's spring. Most areas have pleasant climates and it is the season of revival. You can travel to different cities in China during this season, and each place has different scenery. There are some spring highlights in China:

Beijing: Stroll along the Great Wall amidst the cherry blossoms. Temperatures hover around 15–25°C—perfect for climbing those steep steps!
Xi’an: Avoid the crowds and see the Terracotta Warriors in the summer. Pro tip: Rent a bike at sunset to ride around the ancient city walls.
Guilin: Cruise the Li River past misty karst mountains surrounded by emerald rice fields.
Shanghai: Wander the Bund in a light jacket and snap photos of the skyline, where fog or smog won’t ruin the view.

Autumn (September to November)

From September to November, China enters autumn. The temperature in this season is also very warm, and it is very convenient for everyone to travel. You can choose to watch the scenery or climb mountains. There are some autumn highlights in China:

Huangshan: Hike through groves of fiery red and orange maple trees. Morning mist makes the peaks look like floating islands!
Chengdu: Visit the pandas on a cool day—they’re more active when it’s not hot. Don’t miss the spicy Sichuan hotpot afterward!
Xinjiang: Drive along the Silk Road under clear skies. Golden poplars line the roadside and the markets in Kashgar are bustling.
The Great Wall (Mutianyu Section): Avoid the summer crowds and snap photos of the fall foliage on the Great Wall.

Autumn Tips: Avoid the National Day Golden Week (Oct. 1-7) – it’s packed with people, and hotel and flight prices skyrocket!

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The Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall in Beijing in spring, with the background of cherry blossoms.

Summer in China (June to August): Hot but sitll Worth Visit

June to August is China's summer, and while it's hot, it's also a great time to visit, and with smart planning, you can enjoy the following China attractions:

Tibet: Escape to Lhasa, where temperatures stay around 15–25°C. Visit the Potala Palace, then hike to Everest Base Camp.
Zhangjiajie National Park: Walk an Avatar-style glass bridge through lush, misty forests. The mountains are 5–10°C cooler than in the city!
Hainan Island: China’s “Hawaii” has palm trees, white sand, and coconut drinks. Try surfing at Riyue Bay or snorkeling at Wuzhizhou Island.
Qingdao: Swim in clear waters, sample Tsingtao beer at a brewery, and eat scallops at a night market.

Beautiful Valley Namtso Lake in Tibet, China in summer.

Winter is also a Good Time to Visit China: A Hidden Gem

Choose the right place, winter is a magical time to explore China!

Winter Adventures in Northern China:

Harbin Ice and Snow Festival (January-February): See towering ice castles, slides and sculptures lit up in neon. It’s like stepping into Arendelle from Frozen!
Beijing: The Forbidden City looks spectacular covered in snow, and the frozen Kunming Lake at the Summer Palace is something special.
Jilin: See “frost trees” – frosted pines along the Songhua River.

Winter Getaways in Southern China:

Yunnan: Kunming (“Spring City”) stays around 15°C, so you can hike Tiger Leaping Gorge or explore the ancient streets of Dali.
Hong Kong and Macau: Shop in China at the local markets, eat dim sum and take photos of the Symphony of Lights show over Victoria Harbour.
Hainan Island: Sanya’s beaches are warm enough for swimming even in January.

Holiday tips: Expect dragon dances, red lanterns and lots of dumplings for Chinese New Year. Book your train/flight in advance - it will be crowded!

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The magnificent artificial ice and snow world in Harbin, China.

Insider Tips for Your China Trip

First, check the weather

First, you should check the local weather information in advance according to the city you choose, and bring suitable clothes, so that you can be prepared for outdoor travel.

Second, plan a good route

China is a vast country. If you want to have a good time here, you need to make a travel strategy in advance. Reasonably arrange your time and plan a travel route according to your time and budget, so that you can have a more perfect experience.

Third, arrange accommodation in advance

To travel smoothly, you also need to arrange the accommodation in China in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, which will soon be full.

Forth, try street food

China’s cuisine is very rich and varied, so pick some local foods to try.

Fifth, download the following apps:

WeChat and Alipay: 99% of places accept WeChat Pay or Alipay for payments and scanning QR codes (used everywhere!).
Baidu maps or Amap: Google Maps doesn't work here, these map apps also have English options and real-time updates.

15 Days Best of China Tour with Chengdu and Tibet Discovery

Beijing - Xi'an - Chengdu - Lhasa - Shanghai

Conclusion

Generally speaking, the best time to visit China is from March to May or from September to November, but there is no strict rule for when is the most suitable time to visit China. Different seasons offer different scenery and different cities have their own climate characteristics.

No matter when you go, China's ancient history, beautiful landscapes and mouth-watering cuisine will amaze you. Just pack your bags and plan ahead - you will make memories that last a lifetime!