Autumn in China – Weather & Tour Tips

When is the autumn in China?

The autumn season in China usually starts from September to November every year. 
 

What is the weather like in China in autumn?

In fall season in China, the temperature drops, and the weather is much cooler than the hot summer but not cold yet like in winter, so it is a comfortable season for outdoor sightseeing. But the temperature difference between day and night increases. The humidity is comparatively lower, making people feel dry. 

Average Low Temperature: 15°C / 59°F
Average High Temperature: 25°C / 77°F
Average Rainfall: 381mm
Average Rainy Days: 23 Days
The coldest cities in China in autumn: Harbin: -10°C (14°F)
The hottest cities in China in autumn: Chongqing: 34°C (93°F) 

Autumn Temperatures of Major Chinese Cities

September October November
Beijing 15 - 26°C / 59 - 79°F 8 - 19°C / 46 - 66°F 0 - 10°C / 32 - 50°F
Xi'an 16 - 26°C / 61 - 79°F 10 - 20°C / 50 - 68°F 3 - 12°C / 37 - 54°F
Shanghai 21 - 27°C / 70 - 81°F 15 - 22°C / 59 - 72°F 9 - 17°C / 48 - 63°F
Guilin 22 - 30°C / 72 - 86°F 17 - 27°C / 63 - 81°F 12 - 20°C / 54 - 68°F
Guangzhou 24 - 31°C / 75 - 88°F 21- 29°C / 70 - 84°F 16 - 25°C / 61 - 77°F
Hong Kong 26 - 30°C / 79 - 86°F 23 - 28°C / 73 - 82°F 19 - 24°C / 66 - 75°F
Chengdu 19 - 26°C / 66 - 79°F 15 - 21°C / 59 - 70°F 10 - 16°C / 50 - 61°F
Hangzhou 20 - 28°C / 68 - 82°F 15 - 23°C / 59 - 73°F 9 - 17°C / 48 - 63°F
Suzhou 21 - 27°C / 70 - 81°F 15 - 22°C / 59 - 72°F 9 - 17°C / 48 - 63°F
Lhasa 8 - 20°C / 46 - 68°F 2 - 17°C / 36 - 63°F -4 - 12°C / 25 - 54°F
 

What should I wear?

Based on China autumn weather, you should wear long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, pants and casual shoes during warm noontime. For cold mornings, evenings, windy nights and rainy days, it is advised to add jackets and overcoats. Considering climate difference between Northern China and Southern China, tourists are suggested to notice weather forecast in advance and adjust the clothes.
China Clothes in Autumn Autumn Wear in China
 

Where can I go & what can I do? – Top Autumn Destinations

Autumn in China is not only a season full of harvest and hope, but also a good time to travel. From September to November, you can appreciate colorful leaves in various places. If you want to enjoy the beauty of red leaves, you should catch the chance to visit Beijing Fragrant Hills Park & Mutianyu Great Wall. Besides, you are suggested to visit Zhangjiajie National Forest Park and Jiuzhaigou National Park to see a bright-coloured world with golden, red and green plants. Or it is advised to go to the ancient city Xi’an, where you can visit the historical relics like City Wall and Giant Wild Goose Pagoda comfortably.  
  

Further Reading: 
 China’s Top 6 Places to Travel in September
 China’s 7 Best Places to Visit in October
 China’s 6 Best Destinations in November
 

Why Visit China in Autumn

Autumn in China is regarded as the best season for traveling due to its moderate temperature and colorful natural scenery including red, golden and brown leaves. Using them as the background, one can take amazing photos. In addition, China autumn weather is suitable for outdoor activities like hiking and climbing mountains. 
 

China Autumn Travel Tips & Special Precautions

 Due to the obvious temperature difference between day and night in China autumn months, it is advised to bring a windbreaker or other warm clothes to keep away from the cold and fever.
 Try to avoid travelling to China during the China National Day Holiday from Oct.1st to 7th every year because the scenic areas would be full with crowded tourists and the travel expenses will be increased a lot. If you cannot change the travel plan, please book the train / flight tickets and hotel in advance.
 Prepare sunscreen products because the sunlight is still strong when you travel China in autumn.
 Wearing leather shoes or high-heeled shoes is not suggested especially when climbing mountains. 
- Last updated on Aug. 26, 2024 -