China Travel Climate and Weather in May

May is an excellent month to visit China, as the weather becomes warmer and more pleasant across many regions, offering favorable conditions for outdoor activities, cultural exploration, and sightseeing. The diverse weather patterns, influenced by China’s vast geography, provide a variety of options depending on what you’re looking for in your travels. Here’s a breakdown of the climate and weather in different regions of China in May, along with recommendations for packing and the best travel destinations.

1. Northern China: Warm and Pleasant

Beijing and Surrounding Areas

Average Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
Weather Conditions: Mild, with occasional rain showers.
Details: In May, Beijing enjoys comfortable, warm temperatures, perfect for exploring the city’s historical landmarks such as the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, and Great Wall. The weather is still pleasant and not as hot as summer, with less rainfall, making it one of the best months to visit.
Tip: Wear light layers, a comfortable jacket for the evenings, and bring an umbrella for occasional rain.

2. Eastern China: Warm and Humid

Shanghai

Average Temperature: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm, humid, with occasional rain.
Details: Shanghai in May is warm and pleasant, with temperatures suitable for enjoying the city’s blend of modern architecture and traditional landmarks like Yu Garden and the Bund. However, occasional rain showers can occur, so it’s a good idea to carry an umbrella.
Tip: Light, breathable clothing is ideal, and an umbrella or raincoat will help with the occasional rain.

3. Southern China: Warm, Humid, and Rainy

Guangzhou and Shenzhen

Average Temperature: 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm, humid, and the start of the rainy season.
Details: May marks the beginning of the rainy season in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, so expect frequent rain showers and occasional thunderstorms. Despite the rain, these cities offer vibrant nightlife, bustling shopping districts, and rich cultural experiences. The warm weather is perfect for indulging in the local culinary delights, such as dim sum.
Tip: Light, breathable clothing is a must, along with an umbrella or rain jacket to stay dry.

Guilin

Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm and humid with rain showers.
Details: Guilin is famous for its stunning karst landscapes and the Li River, and May brings slightly warmer temperatures with the beginning of the rainy season. Despite the rain, it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the Longji Rice Terraces or cruising along the river.
Tip: Pack light clothing and a raincoat or umbrella. Comfortable shoes are essential for outdoor activities.

4. Western China: Warm and Ideal for Exploration

Chengdu

Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm, humid, with occasional rain showers.
Details: Chengdu in May offers pleasant, warm temperatures perfect for exploring the city’s vibrant culture. You can visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to see the famous pandas, stroll through the Wuhou Shrine, or indulge in the city’s famous Sichuan cuisine. Rain showers may occur, so it’s wise to have an umbrella or raincoat.
Tip: Bring light clothing for daytime, a light jacket for cooler evenings, and an umbrella for rain.

Lhasa (Tibet)

Average Temperature: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
Weather Conditions: Clear skies, mild temperatures.
Details: Lhasa is one of the best places to visit in May, as the weather is clear and mild, with pleasant daytime temperatures. May marks the start of the tourist season, so you can visit iconic landmarks such as Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, and Barkhor Street in comfortable conditions.
Tip: Bring layers to adapt to the temperature changes, sunscreen for high-altitude protection, and comfortable shoes for sightseeing.

5. Northeastern China: Mild and Comfortable

Changchun and Shenyang

Average Temperature: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
Weather Conditions: Generally dry with occasional rain showers.
Details: Northeastern China experiences mild temperatures in May, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. There may be occasional rain showers, but the weather is generally dry, offering pleasant conditions for exploring Changchun’s cultural sites or hiking around Shenyang‘s Shenyang Imperial Palace.
Tip: Comfortable, light layers are recommended, along with a jacket for cooler evenings.

6. Best Time to Travel to China in May

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park

Average Temperature: 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
Weather Conditions: Mild, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Details: Zhangjiajie, famous for its towering sandstone pillars, is a great destination in May, with mild temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring the park’s scenic landscapes. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and May sees fewer crowds than in the summer months.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Average Temperature: 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
Weather Conditions: Mild, with occasional rain.
Details: Jiuzhaigou, known for its colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, is best visited in May, as the weather is pleasant for hiking and photography. The stunning scenery is complemented by fewer tourists compared to the summer peak.
Tip: Bring layers and comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

Yangshuo

Average Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F)
Weather Conditions: Warm, humid, with occasional rain.
Details: Yangshuo, located near Guilin, is famous for its idyllic karst landscape and outdoor activities such as bamboo rafting and cycling. The weather in May is perfect for outdoor exploration and photography, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery along the Li River.
Tip: Pack light clothing, a raincoat or umbrella, and comfortable shoes for cycling and hiking.

Lijiang Old Town

Average Temperature: 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F)
Weather Conditions: Mild and pleasant.
Details: Lijiang, with its UNESCO-listed Old Town and views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a charming destination in May. The temperatures are mild and comfortable, ideal for leisurely exploring the cobbled streets, visiting Black Dragon Pool, and experiencing Naxi culture.
Tip: Comfortable walking shoes, light layers for daytime warmth, and a jacket for cooler evenings.

7. What to Wear in China in May

Northern China (Beijing, Changchun, Shenyang)

Clothing: Light layers for daytime comfort, and a jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. A rain jacket or umbrella is helpful for occasional showers.

Eastern China (Shanghai, Hangzhou)

Clothing: Light, breathable clothing for daytime warmth, with a jacket for the evenings. A rain jacket or umbrella is recommended for possible showers.

Southern China (Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Guilin)

Clothing: Light, breathable clothing for the warm temperatures, along with an umbrella or rain jacket to stay dry in the rain.

Western China (Chengdu, Lhasa)

Clothing: Light layers for the day, a jacket for the evenings, and sunscreen for high-altitude areas like Lhasa.

Northeastern China (Changchun, Shenyang)

Clothing: Light layers for daytime warmth, a jacket for evenings, and comfortable shoes for outdoor activities.

8. Highlights of Visiting China in May

Zhangjiajie: Enjoy the stunning sandstone pillars in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park with comfortable hiking weather and fewer crowds.
Jiuzhaigou: Visit Jiuzhaigou Valley for colorful lakes, waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, ideal for hiking and photography.
Yangshuo: Explore Yangshuo’s picturesque karst landscape with activities like bamboo rafting and cycling along the Li River.
Lijiang Old Town: Discover the charm of Lijiang with its cobbled streets, Naxi culture, and panoramic views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

In conclusion, May is one of the best months to visit China. Whether you’re exploring cultural landmarks in the north, enjoying nature in the south, or hiking in the west, the weather in most regions is mild and ideal for outdoor activities. Be sure to pack appropriately based on your destination, and enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer!