Average Temperatures and Dressing Guide for Various Chinese Cities

The following classification by geographical region covers the climatic characteristics and dressing suggestions for major tourist cities in China, helping you dress appropriately according to the travel season.

1. Northern Region (Cold and Dry Winters, Mild Summers)

Representative Cities: Beijing, Harbin, Shenyang, Changchun Climate Characteristics: Distinct four seasons, long and severe winters (November to March of the following year), short and warm summers (June-August), and windy spring and autumn.

• Winter (December-February)
• Temperature: -20°C to 5°C (Harbin can reach -30°C)
• Dressing Suggestions:
  • Must wear thick down jackets, windproof coats, fleece pants, thermal underwear, wool socks, and non-slip boots.
  • Accessories: Hats, scarves, gloves (preferably touch-screen compatible).

• Special Note: Indoor heating is sufficient, so it’s recommended to adopt the "layered dressing method" for easy adjustment.

• Spring (March-May)

• Temperature: 5°C to 20°C

• Dressing Suggestions: Thin sweater + windproof coat, and carry a scarf to protect against sandstorms.

• Summer (June-August)

• Temperature: 20°C to 35°C

• Dressing Suggestions: Short sleeves + thin long pants; wear hats and sunglasses when UV rays are strong.

• Autumn (September-November)

• Temperature: 0°C to 15°C
• Dressing Suggestions: Light down jacket or windbreaker + knitted sweater, and prepare a thick coat for large temperature differences between morning and evening.

2. East China Region (Humid All Year Round, Hot and Humid Summers)

Representative Cities: Shanghai, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Suzhou Climate Characteristics: Hot and humid summers with frequent rain, cold and damp winters (without central heating), comfortable springs and autumns.

• Winter (December-February)
• Temperature: 0°C to 10°C

• Dressing Suggestions: Fleece-lined overcoats, sweaters, thermal leggings, and thick indoor clothing (due to lack of heating).

• Summer (June-August)

• Temperature: 25°C to 38°C (perceived temperature often exceeds 40°C)

• Dressing Suggestions: Breathable linen or cotton clothing, sun protection garments, and bring an umbrella for sudden rainfall.

• Plum Rain Season (June-July)

• Special Note: High humidity makes clothes difficult to dry. It’s advisable to bring extra changes of clothing or opt for quick-drying materials.

3. South China Region (Hot and Humid, Brief Winters)

Representative Cities: Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Xiamen Climate Characteristics: Summer lasts for six months (April-October), winters are mild but occasional cold spells occur.

• Year-Round Dressing Guidelines:
• Summer: Short sleeves, shorts, sandals, and always carry sunscreen and an umbrella for shade.
• Winter (December-February)
  • Temperature: 10°C to 20°C (can drop to 5°C during cold spells)
  • Dressing Suggestions: Thin jacket + long sleeves, and prepare a light down jacket for sudden drops in temperature.

4. Southwest China Region (Varied Climate, Large Day-Night Temperature Differences at High Altitudes)

Representative Cities: Chengdu, Kunming, Lijiang, Lhasa Climate Characteristics: - Chengdu: Hot and humid summers, cold and damp winters. - Kunming: “Spring-like all year round,” with significant daily temperature variations (8°C-20°C). - Highlands (Lhasa, Shangri-La): Extremely strong UV rays, day-night temperature differences can reach up to 20°C.

• Highland Dressing Suggestions:
• Daytime: Long-sleeve T-shirts + sun protection clothing + wide-brimmed hats.
• Nighttime: Waterproof jackets or thin down jackets.
• Essential Items: Sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen, moisturizing skincare products.

5. Northwest China Region (Dry with Minimal Rainfall, Extreme Day-Night Temperature Differences)

Representative Cities: Xi'an, Lanzhou, Urumqi, Dunhuang Climate Characteristics: Hot summers (30°C-40°C), cold winters (-10°C to 5°C), and sandy conditions in desert areas.

• Desert Travel (e.g., Dunhuang):
• Daytime: Breathable long sleeves + face masks for sun protection.
• Nighttime: Fleece tops or thin down jackets.
• Footwear Suggestion: High-top anti-sand boots or sports shoes + sand guards.

6. General Dressing Tips

1. Shoe Selection: Choose slip-resistant boots in northern winters, waterproof shoes in southern rainy seasons, and hiking shoes for high-altitude treks.
2. Rain Gear: Foldable umbrellas are essential in rainy seasons in eastern and southern regions; windproof jackets are recommended for northwestern areas instead of umbrellas.
3. Sun Protection: Strong UV radiation exists in high-altitude, desert, and coastal regions. Use SPF50+ sunscreen and physical sunblock methods.
4. Special Needs:
5. For those with allergies, carry masks during spring (for northern dust storms and southern pollen).
6. Purchase handwarmers ("Warm Baby") for winter travel (available in Chinese convenience stores).

Monthly Average Temperature Reference Table for Major Cities