Many visitors choose to visit certain countries based on whether they like the weather conditions in that country at a specific time of year. This gives rise to some seasons with high visitor demand, with the rest of the seasons witness considerably less visitors.
However, China is an exception. Being the third largest country in the world, it has a wide variety of offerings in its different regions, which have vastly different climates and weather conditions.
To get the most out of your preferred vacation experience in China, it is wise to plan which is the best time for you to travel to China, especially in relation to the traits of the specific region or city of your visit.
Some information on the general and specific climates and weather conditions in China
China is usually popular with visitors during the seasons of spring, summer and autumn. Generally speaking, the spring and autumn have clearer skies and pleasant temperatures which usually range between 10-22C. You may still want to put on a windbreaker or slightly thicker clothing to protect against unexpected weather conditions.
The summer can see considerably higher temperatures with a high amount of rainfall, which makes an umbrella or raincoat an essential item to bring. Needless to say, the winters can be harsh with extremely low temperatures, especially if you venture up north.
Generally, as you get further from the coast, you will experience more extreme temperatures, hence do be prepared. That being said, do monitor the news for the latest weather conditions in your destination.
China’s north typically enjoys pleasantly warm temperatures for about six months towards the middle of the year. It will however get much colder towards the end to beginning of the year, with sub-zero temperatures the norm from December to March. If you visit places such as Beijing during the spring or summer months, you may experience dust storms, hence be adequately prepared.
If your travels take you to central China such as Shanghai, Chongqing and Wuhan, do be prepared for high summer temperatures, and short and bleak winters. You may also want to prepare yourself for the high levels of precipitation experienced by this region around the year.
Southern China, which includes Guangzhou and Hainan Island, has among the hottest and most humid summers in China. However, their winters are short and mild although you will experience lower temperatures the further inland you go.
Number of visitors in your chosen destination
Another factor that you may consider while planning when to visit China is the number of visitors to the attractions that you plan to visit. Bigger crowds of tourists are generally expected during the warmer seasons as mentioned earlier, peaking during the high seasons.
These visitor numbers reach their peak during the Golden Weeks which generally see a huge surge in local tourists. These periods include the Spring Festival as well as the week following National Day on 1 October.
If you have made up your mind to travel during the off-peak winter season, I suggest that you can consider participating in some of the most breathtaking winter festivals. Of special mention is the Harbin International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival. Here you can expect to see only the finest carvings of ice and snow sculptures, as well as multiple exciting winter sports to engage in.
Regardless of when you plan to travel to China, Chan Brothers Hotel Portal will offer you a great selection of hotels in China to choose from. You not only get to enjoy all-round competitive rates and the most attractive special deals for selected hotels, you are also assured instant confirmation of your booking.