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Beijing Weather and Climate
The best time to visit Beijing depends on personal preferences and the type of activities you plan to do. Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons due to mild temperatures and pleasant weather, while summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and dry. Travel to Beijing in the four seasons：
1)Visit Beijing in Spring (March 15th to May 15th):
Spring in Beijing is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 20°C (68°F). The weather is dry with clear skies, making it a popular time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Beijing spring is a comfortable season while the cherry blossoms and other flowers start to bloom, creating a beautiful scenery. Spring is best time to visit Beijing.
2)Visit Beijing in Summer (June, July and August):
Summer in Beijing is hot and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 31°C (88°F). The city experiences frequent rainfall, with occasional thunderstorms and heavy downpours. July and August are the wettest months of the year, with an average of 170-190mm of precipitation per month. Beijing summer is the hottest season and is also the peak tourist season due to summer holidays and many festivals and events taking place during this time.
3)Visit Beijing in Autumn (September 5th to November 15th):
Autumn in Beijing is cool and pleasant, the most comfortable and beautiful season, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 26°C (79°F). The weather is dry and sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and visiting the Great Wall of China. Beijing autumn is the best season to visit Beijing and is also the time when the leaves change color, creating a beautiful scenery. Autumn is another great time to visit Beijing.
4)Visit Beijing in Winter (November 15th to March 15th):
Winter in Beijing is cold and dry, with average temperatures ranging from -4°C (25°F) to 4°C (39°F). The city experiences occasional snowfall, with an average of 2-3 snowy days per month. You should be prepared for cold weather and pack warm clothing. However, winter is also a great time to visit for winter sports enthusiasts, as there are many ski resorts in the nearby mountains. Beijing winter is cold but with cheapest price.
2 Days Beijing Great Wall Day & Night Tour to Mutianyu & Simatai2 Days Wild Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Gubeikou, Jinshanling, Simatai West3 Days In-depth Beijing Great Wall Hiking Tour: Jiankou to Mutianyu & Gubeikou-Jianshanling-Simatai4 Days Beijing Tour: City Highlights, Great Wall Night Views & Gubei Water Tour5 Days Beijing Culture Tour with Great Wall, Imperial Palaces & Museum
Beijing Average Temperatures by Month
The average temperature in Beijing varies greatly throughout the year, with the coldest month being January and the hottest month being July. Here are the average temperatures in Beijing by month:
| Month | Average Temperature | Month | Average Temperature |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -9°C to 1°C | July | 23°C to 31°C |
| February | -6°C to 4°C | August | 22°C to 30°C |
| March | 0°C to 11°C | September | 15°C to 26°C |
| April | 8°C to 20°C | October | 8°C to 19°C |
| May | 14°C to 26°C | November | -1°C to 9°C |
| June | 19°C to 30°C | December | -8°C to 2°C |
The Best Time to Visit Beijing
Generally, the best time to visit Beijing is during the spring (April to May) and autumn/fall (September to October) seasons. During these seasons, the weather is mild and pleasant, with clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures. These months also offer fewer crowds and lower prices compared to the peak tourist season in summer. Here are some reasons why these months are the best time to visit Beijing:
1)Why visit Beijing on April and May?
April and May are among the best months to visit Beijing, as the weather is mild and pleasant, with clear blue skies and comfortable temperatures. At these months you can enjoy the beautiful spring of Beijing by viewing the cherry blossoms, peonies, and other flowers in bloom. It is also a good time to visit the Great Wall and other outdoor attractions such as hiking and cycling.
2)Why visit Beijing on September and October?
September and October are among the best months to visit Beijing, the weather in Beijing is also mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 19°C (59°F to 66°F). The city experiences fewer crowds, and the autumn foliage is at its peak, making it a great time to visit parks and scenic areas. It is also a good time to taste local food and drinks, such as chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and persimmons. Note: Beijing experiences the greatest tourist inflows in the first week of October due to Chinese National Holidays from Oct 1st to 7th. Unless you would like to join the crowd holiday, do remember to avoid visiting Beijing during these days.
The Second-best Time to Visit Beijing
The months of March, June, and November are considered the second-best times to visit Beijing. These months offer a good balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak tourist season in summer. However, visitors should still be prepared for occasional weather fluctuations and pack accordingly. Here are some reasons why these months are a good time to visit:
1)Why visit Beijing on March?
In March, the weather in Beijing is starting to warm up, but it is still relatively cool and dry with clear skies. The temperature ranges from 0°C to 11°C (32°F to 52°F), which is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The city's famous cherry blossoms and other flowers are starting to bloom.
2)Why visit Beijing on June?
June is the start of summer in Beijing, but the weather is still mild and comfortable, with an average temperature of 26°C (79°F). The city experiences occasional rainfall, but the weather is generally dry and sunny. June is also a great time to visit Beijing if you're interested in seeing local festivals and events, such as the Dragon Boat Festival.
3)Why visit Beijing on November?
November is the start of winter in Beijing, but the weather is still relatively mild, with an average temperature of 9°C (48°F). The city experiences occasional windy and dusty weather, but the skies are generally clear. November is also a great time to see the autumn foliage, which is at its peak during this month.
Peak Season in Beijing: July and August
July and August are considered the peak season in Beijing due to Chinese school summer vacation (summer holidays) and many festivals and events taking place during this time. During the peak season, there are many tourists in Beijing, and popular attractions such as the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace can be crowded. Accommodation and transportation costs may also be higher than during other times of the year.
Many students visit Beijing in July and August for summer programs or to participate in cultural exchange programs. These programs may include language classes, cultural activities, and sightseeing tours. July and August are also the summer holidays for many schools and universities in China, so it's a convenient time for students to travel and participate in these programs. In addition, many international schools and universities offer summer programs in Beijing, allowing students to learn about Chinese culture and language while experiencing life in a different country.
If you plan to visit Beijing during the high season, it's important to book your accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Off-Season in Beijing: December to February
The off-season in Beijing is typically from December to February. During this winter time, the weather is cold and dry, with an average temperature ranging from -4°C (25°F) to 4°C (39°F). Beijing experiences occasional snowfall, with an average of 2-3 snowy days per month. This can make some outdoor activities difficult, but it's still possible to enjoy winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding in Beijijng's nearby ski resorts.
If you're looking for a more authentic and peaceful experience, the off-season in Beijing is a great time for you to look for fewer crowds and lower prices. Many hotels and attractions offer discounts during this time, and you'll have more space to explore popular tourist destinations such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China. You'll also have a chance to experience the city's winter traditions, such as eating hot pot, dumplings, and other warming foods. And also to see some of the winter festivals, such as the Chinese New Year celebrations, as well as other indoor activities such as visiting museums and theaters.
If you plan to visit Beijing during the off-season, it's important to pack warm clothing, including a coat, hat, gloves, and boots. You should also be prepared for occasional weather fluctuations, such as windy and dusty weather. Except for the short holidays in these months: Christmas Day, January 1, and the Chinese Spring Festival, this low season in Beijing is best for traveling on a budget.
Visit Beijing on Public Holidays & Festivals
Visiting Beijing during public holidays and events can be a great experience, but it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for crowds, higher prices, and possible travel restrictions. Here are some tips for visiting Beijing during public holidays and events:
1)Tomb Sweeping Day (Qingming Festival)
Tomb Sweeping Day, also known as Qingming Festival, is a traditional Chinese festival that usually falls on April 4th or 5th. It is a time for Chinese people to pay respects to their ancestors by visiting their graves and cleaning their tombstones. This holiday usually lasts for 3 days and many Chiniese people travel to their hometowns or to scenic areas to pay respects to their ancestors. This can result in larger crowds and longer lines at popular attractions. It's important to plan ahead and book your accommodation and transportation well in advance.
2)May Day (Labor Day)
May Day, also known as Labor Day, is a public holiday in China that falls on May 1st. It is a time for Chinese people to celebrate the contributions of workers to society and to take a break from work. This national holiday always lasts for 3 days(May1st to 3rd), and many people travel to popular tourist destinations during this time.
During May Day, Beijing may have many events and festivals to celebrate the holiday. For example, there may be parades, concerts, and cultural performances. It's a great opportunity to experience local culture and customs. Some areas of Beijing may have traffic restrictions during May Day to ease congestion and ensure public safety. It's important to check with your hotel or travel agency for any updates on traffic restrictions or road closures.
3)Mid-Autumn Festival (usually in September or October)
The Mid-Autumn Festival, falls on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese lunar calendar, is a traditional Chinese festival celebrating the full moon and family reunions. Many locals celebrate by eating moon cakes and lighting lanterns. During this time, the city may have many festive events and activities, such as lantern displays and folk performances. It's a great time to experience traditional Chinese culture, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
4)National Day Holiday (October 1-7)
The National Day Holiday is a week-long holiday celebrating China's National Day on October 1st. During the 7-day holiday (usually from Oct 1 to Oct 7), many locals travel to Beijing and other popular destinations, causing crowds and higher prices. Popular attractions such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall may be crowded, so it's important to arrive early or consider visiting less popular attractions. It's also a good idea to book your accommodation and transportation in advance.
5)Chinese New Year (Chinese Spring Festival, usually in January or February)
The Spring Festival, falls in late January or February, also known as Chinese New Year, is a major holiday in China. The holiday lasts for 15 days and is a time for family reunions, feasting, and celebrating the new year. Chinese New Year is also the busiest travel season in China, and many people travel to their hometowns or to popular tourist destinations during this time. Visiting Beijing during Chinese New Year can be a unique and memorable experience with festive events and activities, such as temple fairs and lion dances. It's important to check with your hotel or travel agency for any updates on traffic restrictions or road closures.
6)Beijing International Film Festival (usually in April)
The Beijing International Film Festival is a major film festival held annually in Beijing. The festival showcases films from around the world, and many celebrities and filmmakers attend. During this time, the city may have many film-related events and activities, such as screenings and red carpet events. It's a great time to experience the film industry and possibly meet some celebrities, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
The best time to visit Beijing is during the months of April, May, September, and October when the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak tourist season in summer (July and August). Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons due to mild temperatures and pleasant weather, while summer can be hot and humid, and winter can be cold and dry. Beijing's climate and seasons offer a variety of experiences for visitors, with each season having its own charm and beauty. By packing appropriately and choosing the best time to visit, you can make the most of your trip to Beijing.
Discover Beijing with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Based in China with our office located in Beijing, our local team at Asia Odyssey Travel provides the best service to ensure an authentic and unforgettable experience for those who want to visit Beijing. We offer a variety of carefully designed Beijing tours, including Classic Beijing Tours, Great Wall Tours, Hutong Tours, Layover Tours, and Visa-free Tours, that cater to your needs and desires. Whether you prefer a private tour with a flexible itinerary or a budget-friendly group tour without compromising on quality, Asia Odyssey Travel has a tour to suit you, ensuring that your journey to Beijing is an enjoyable vacation.
lf you're looking to extend your Beijing trip into a longer vacation, Asia Odyssey Travel also offers a range of inspiring ideas through our China tours from Beijing. Our professional travel consultants are ready to help you customize a tailor-made Beijing Tour at the best local price. Don't hesitate to contact us to start planning your dream trip to Beijing today!
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