The capital city of China and one of the best places to visit China, Beijing has four distinct seasons and varied weather. Understanding Beijing’s weather, temperatures, and travel seasons will help you plan your Beijing tours, pack your clothes, and enjoy the best travel experience.
Beijing Weather
Located in north China, Beijing has a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons and large annual differences in temperature. Summer is the rainy season, but overall, it is dry and windy throughout the year.
Weather in Spring
Spring, from March to May, is windy and dry. The average temperature is 10°C – 20°C. Please note that sandy weather is common.
What to wear: Coat, long sleeves, thin sweater, with a scarf to protect against the wind
Weather in Summer
Summer, from June to August, is hot and rainy. Average temperatures are 25°C – 35°C. Midday is not suitable for outdoor travel in Beijing.
What to wear: Short sleeves, shorts, sun-protective clothing, sun hats, sunglasses, rain gear
Weather in Autumn
In the fall, from September to November, the weather is sunny and pleasant. The average temperature is 15°C – 25°C. In late autumn season, there is a big difference in temperature between day and night.
What to wear: Coat, shirt, thin sweater, jeans/sport pants. Pay attention to the temperature difference between day and night
Weather in Winter
Winter, from December to February, is cold and dry, with occasional snowfall. The average temperature is -8°C – 5°C. It is suitable for experience Beijing’s snowy scenery.
What to wear: Down jacket, thick wool sweater, fleece pants, hat and gloves
Best Time to Visit Beijing
Spring (April-May)
Why: Everything comes back to life after the cold winter, and scenic spots are not crowded
Recommended activities: Climb the Great Wall of China, visit the Summer Palace, enjoy cherry blossoms at Sumer Place, and take a spring outing to the Temple of Heaven.
Note: There may be floating dust in some areas. It is recommended to bring masks and skin care products.
Autumn (September – October)
Why: It is the most suitable season for traveling in Beijing
Recommended activities: Red Leaves at Xiangshan Hills, boating in Beihai Park, Beijing Hutong Tour on a rickshaw, and a Beijing Forbidden City tour with fall foliage is best for photography enthusiasts.
Note: Avoid traveling in China’s National Day holiday (October 1st – 7th), which is the peak period for domestic tourists.
Dates to Avoid Visiting Beijing
The Chinese Lunar New Year usually falls from January to early February, when there is a large flow of people at scenic spots and on transportation. Moreover, some tourist attractions may be closed.
During the Labor Day holiday, from May 1st to 5th, there will be a concentration of short-distance tourists. Popular attractions such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City require advance reservations. Air tickets might be rather expensive.
The National Day Golden Week in China, from October 1st to 7th, is the peak period for national travel. It is recommended to avoid it completely.
