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Beijing Weather and Climate Overview: Four Beijing Seasons
Beijing generally has a climate with four very distinct seasons, influenced by monsoons. This means you can expect cold, dry winters and hot, wetter summers.
The coldest time of year is usually January. July is typically the hottest month in Beijing. On average, temperatures from -4 °C-31°C. The rain season is July and August. You're most likely to see some light snow from December to February.
| Feature | Overall Climate | Average Temp | Monthly Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Details | Humid Continental | -4 °C-31°C | 45-48 mm (1.7-1.8 inches) |
Beijing in Spring (March 15th to May 15th): It’s is when things start to warm up. With average temperatures ranging from 11°C (52°F) to 20°C (68°F). . It's nice and comfy for being outside. Flowers, like cherry blossoms, also bloom and look beautiful.
Beijing in Summer (June, July and August): It is very hot, temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) to 31°C (88°F). It's also the busiest time for tourists. This is because of summer holidays, and many festivals and events happen then.
Beijing in Autumn (September 5th to November 15th): It is cool, pleasant, and beautiful. The weather is dry and sunny, perfect for outdoor fun like visiting the Great Wall. Leaves change color, making it very pretty. It's a great time to visit.
Beijing in Winter (November 15th to March 15th): It is cold and dry. Temperatures are usually between -4°C (25°F) and 4°C (39°F). It snows a little sometimes. You'll need warm clothes. But, winter is good for skiing in nearby mountains. It's also a cheaper time to visit Beijing.
Best Time to Visit Beijing is Spring: Ideal for Flowers & Outdoor Activities
| Month | March | April | May |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temp | 0°C - 12°C | 8°C - 20°C | 14°C - 26°C |
| Rain Day | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Spring in Beijing is usually from mid-March to mid-May. During these months, the weather gets warmer. Sometimes it's warm during the day and cool at night. There is not a lot of rain in spring.
Many people think spring is one of the best times to see Beijing. April and May are great months to visit Beijing. The weather is mild, sunny, and comfortable. It's the perfect time to enjoy spring flowers like cherry blossoms and peonies. You can also visit the Great Wall and spend more time outdoors, hiking or cycling in the fresh air.
Popular things to do include:
- Seeing flowers in parks like the Summer Palace, Yuyuantan Park, and the Beijing Botanical Garden.
- Hiking parts of the Great Wall, such as Mutianyu, which has many plants and flowers.
- Visiting historical sites like the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven. The pleasant weather makes it good for exploring outdoors.
- Enjoying outdoor activities like flying kites or having a picnic in parks.
What to Pack
The weather in spring can change. Sometimes it's warm during the day and cool at night. It can also be windy.
It's a good idea to bring layers of clothes, like a light jacket or sweater, especially for the cooler evenings. In March and early April, a warmer coat might be needed. Because it can be dry and windy, using face cream and having a water bottle is helpful.
Insider Tips:
Major holidays like May Day (May 1-5) is a the peak season. Planning your trip for late March or April might mean fewer crowds and good prices.
Best Time to Visit Beijing: Autumn (for Autumn Leaves)
Autumn (late September to mid-November) is widely considered an excellent time to visit Beijing, known for its pleasant weather and beautiful fall colors.
Autumn brings mild, sunny days, typically 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) initially, cooling down as November nears. Evenings are crisp. Rain is scarce, and skies are often clear.
| Month | Sept | Oct | Nov |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Temp | 15°C - 25°C | 5°C - 15°C | 0°C - 10°C |
Top Things to Do in Beijing in Fall
See the Autumn Leaves: This is a highlight for many visitors. Beijing and its surrounding areas become a canvas of red, orange, and yellow leaves.
- Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park) is perhaps the most famous spot for red leaves, especially smoke trees.
- Great Wall: Sections like Mutianyu offer breathtaking views with colorful mountainsides.
- Ginkgo Avenues: Streets like Diaoyutai Ginkgo Boulevard turn a brilliant gold.
City Sightseeing: Comfortable temperatures make exploring iconic sites like the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, and the Summer Palace very enjoyable. Walking or cycling through the hutongs is also pleasant.
What to Pack
Pack layers. Days can be warm, so a t-shirt or light long-sleeved shirt might be enough. Evenings and early mornings will be cooler, so bring a sweater, light jacket, or even a warmer coat for later in autumn. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Best Time to Visit Beijing for Budget Traveler: December to February
The off-season in Beijing is from December to February. During these winter months, the weather is cold and dry. Temperatures usually stay between -4°C (25°F) and 4°C (39°F). It sometimes snows, with about 2 or 3 snowy days each month.
Outdoor activities can be harder, but you can still enjoy skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski resorts.
If you want fewer crowds and lower prices, this is a good time to visit. Many hotels and tourist spots offer discounts. Places like the Great Wall and the Forbidden City are much quieter. You can enjoy Beijing’s winter food like hot pot and dumplings.
You can also join in local winter traditions and festivals, like Chinese New Year, or visit museums and theaters to stay warm indoors.
Beijing in Summer: Peak Season (June-August)
July and August are the busiest months in Beijing because of the summer holidays in China. Many festivals and events also happen during this time.
Tourist places like the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Summer Palace can be very crowded. Hotels and transport may cost more than usual.
Many students come to Beijing in July and August for summer camps or exchange programs. These programs often include language lessons, cultural activities, and sightseeing.
Some international schools also offer summer classes in Beijing, giving students a chance to learn about Chinese life and culture.
If you plan to visit during these busy months, it’s best to book your hotel and tickets early to avoid trouble.
Best Month to Visit Beijing: When is the Best Month of Year to Visit Beijing
March to June and September to November are considered the best months to visit Beijing. In particular, March, June, and November strike a great balance between pleasant weather, smaller crowds, and lower prices compared to the busy summer travel season.
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.
Best Time to Visit Beijing Great Wall
Overall, the best times to visit the Great Wall are Spring (April-May) and Autumn (Sept-Oct). Autumn is often considered the absolute best. You get Comfortable, cool, and clear weather perfect for hiking. Stunning views with colorful autumn leaves on the mountains.
Spring (April-May) is a strong second choice. Mild and pleasant weather. The landscape turning green with blooming flowers.
How to Get to the Great Wall of China from Beijing (2025 Guide)
Visit Beijing 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.
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