China Weather in February: Cold, Dry, with Less Rainfall
In February, the average temperature in China is low, but warmer than January.
- The China temperature in February ranges from 5°C (23°F) to 10°C (50°F).
- Rainfall is low, ranging from 20mm (0.79 inch) to 50mm (1.97 inch), with most areas in the dry season.
- It is very dry, with occasional snowfall in some northern regions and the beginning of the rainy season in some southern regions.
China is divided into North, Central, South, Northwest, and Southwest regions based on weather. Your travel destination is included in one of these regions.
Let's continue learning about China's regional temperatures in February!


China Temperture in February of North China (Beijing, Harbin)
In North China, the cold air remains strong and the winds are high in February.
Destination | Average Temperature (°C/°F) | Highest Temperature (°C/°F) | Lowest Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
Beijing | -3°C (27°F) -6°C (43°F) | 10°C (50°F) | -4°C (25°F) | 1-2 |
Harbin | -13°C (9°F) -25°C (77°F) | 2°C (36°F) | -30°C (-22°F) | 1-3 |
When traveling in Beijing, popular attractions like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall are occasionally covered with a light dusting of snow, with mostly clear skies and crisp air.
In Harbin, temperatures are mostly below freezing, and the highly popular Harbin Ice Festival continues until the end of February.
Below are the February temperatures for Beijing and Harbin, including China Weather in February in Celsius.
Packing Tip: Bring a hat, scarf, and gloves, and wear a thick down jacket.
China Temperture in February of Central China (Shanghai)
Destination | Average Temperature (°C/°F) | Highest Temperature (°C/°F) | Lowest Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
Shanghai | 3°C (38°F) -7°C (45°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 1°C (34°F) | 10-14 |
Shanghai, found on the central coast, has a milder climate compared to the north, but it has more rainy and gloomy days. If you plan to visit The Bund for sightseeing, you should check the weather forecast in advance to see which days are sunny.
Packing Tip: Wear a light down jacket and don't layer too thickly underneath.
South China - Guangzhou, Hong Kong, Guilin, Zhangjiajie
February in South China sees early spring gently arriving, though occasional cold snaps can still occur.
Destination | Average Temperature (°C/°F) | Highest Temperature (°C/°F) | Lowest Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
Guangzhou | 16°C (61°F) | 26°C (79°F) | 9°C (49°F) | 3-5 |
Hong Kong | 13°C (56°F) -20°C (68°F) | 25°C (77°F) | 13°C (56°F) | 6-8 |
Guilin | 7°C (45°F) -13°C (56°F) | 21°C (70°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 8-12 |
Zhangjiajie | 5°C (41°F) -15°C (59°F) | 15°C (59°F) | 2°C (36°F) | 10-15 |
In Guangzhou, it's the perfect time to admire flowers at Yuexiu Park, and the evening climate is comfortable for enjoying the night view from the Guangzhou Tower.
In Hong Kong, strolling through Hong Kong Island or exploring landmarks like Victoria Peak is also very pleasant.
However, Guilin and Zhangjiajie are not as warm as Guangzhou and Hong Kong. When visiting Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave in Guilin, you might encounter rainy weather, and Zhangjiajie's Avatar Mountain has snow.
Packing Tip:
- Guangzhou/Hong Kong: Wear light jackets, such as windbreakers, and light trousers.
- Guilin/Zhangjiajie: Wear warm, waterproof clothing, such as windbreakers or coats. Be sure to bring an umbrella.
China Temperture in February of Northwest China (Xi'an, Xinjiang)
In February, the weather in Northwest China is cold, dry, and windy, with many sunny days and a large temperature difference between day and night, especially in the Xinjiang region.
Destination | Average Temperature (°C/°F) | Highest Temperature (°C/°F) | Lowest Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
Xi'an | 1°C (34°F) -9°C (49°F) | 17°C (63°F) | -5°C (23°F) | 6-8 |
Xinjiang Province | -15°C (5°F) - | 8°C (47°F) | -11°C (12°F) | 5-10 |
Most attractions in Xi'an, such as the Terracotta Army, are unaffected by rain or snow, though Mount Huashan has snow cover. The scenery in Xinjiang, including lakes, snow-capped mountains, and canyons, is beautiful, but be sure to dress warmly.
Packing Tip: It's recommended to wear warm clothing, such as a down jacket or thick coat, thick pants, along with a hat and scarf.
Southwest China - Chengdu, Kunming, Tibet
In February, the weather in Southwest China is cold and gloomy.
Destination | Average Temperature (°C/°F) | Highest Temperature (°C/°F) | Lowest Temperature (°C/°F) | Rainy Days |
---|---|---|---|---|
Chengdu | 5°C (41°F) - 12°C (54°F) | 20°C (68°F) | 3°C (38°F) | 7-10 |
Kunming | 5°C (41°F) - 17°C (63°F) | 22°C (72°F) | 2°C (36°F) | 5-6 |
Tibet (Lhasa) | 8°C (47°F) - 12°C (54°F) | 9°C (48°F) | -6°C (21°F) | 4-5 |
Chengdu sees more rainy days towards the end of February, with the Chengdu Panda Base often shrouded in light rain or overcast skies. Kunming, on the other hand, enjoys sunny weather, making it perfect for photography at places like Erhai Lake and the Stone Forest.
And of course, Tibet in winter is quite cold, so remember to dress warmly when visiting Lhasa, Mount Kailash, and Mount Everest.
Packing Tip:
- Chengdu/Kunming: Wear a light down jacket or coat, with a sweater underneath.
- Tibet: Wear a heavier down jacket or cotton-padded coat, with multiple layers of thermal underwear and sweaters underneath. Wear thermal pants and non-slip shoes.
Tibet travel requires a Tibet Travel Permit. Asia Odyssey Travel is qualified to help you obtain your permit for free. Contact us!
Where to Go in China February? Plan Your China Trip
Beijing, Xi'an, and Shanghai are, of course, consistently popular choices throughout the year.
If you're interested in enjoying snow and participating in winter festivals, then Harbin Ice Festival, the largest ice and snow festival in the world, is a great option. Tibet's winter scenery is also a feast for the eyes, and you'll have the opportunity to participate in the Tibetan New Year.
If you prefer warmer weather, then head to Chengdu, Yunnan, or Guilin.
Most trips in February last three to ten days. If you tend to spend two weeks or longer in China, Contact us for trip inspiration.
Option 1: Harbin Ice Festival Trip


Although Harbin's February temperatures remain below freezing, you don't need to worry about it being too cold. The indoor heating is so effective, you might even find yourself eating ice cream inside. A highlight is the Harbin Ice Festival, which continues throughout February.
You can witness massive ice sculptures and spectacular light shows at the Ice and Snow World. If you have a fondness for the rustic charm of snow towns, you can stroll through China Snow Town and participate in various snow activities.
Option 2: Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai (Golden Triangle)


While Beijing and Xi'an feel cold in February, indoor heating is available. Shanghai does not have indoor heating, but the outdoor temperatures are not severely cold.
These three cities are renowned for their history and culture. Beijing is the ancient capital of six dynasties, Xi'an is the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, and Shanghai has a history of combining Chinese and Western influences, making it a classic tourist route.
In Beijing, you can admire the Forbidden City covered in snow, in Xi'an, you can visit the Terracotta Army indoors, and in Shanghai, you can enjoy the bustling city architecture from the Bund.
Option 3: Yunnan - Relax at Nature


Yunnan enjoys pleasant weather in February and is renowned for its rich and diverse ethnic cultures and magnificent natural landscapes. Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La are among its popular destinations.
In Kunming, you can visit attractions like the Stone Forest, Green Lake, and the Western Hills. Travel to Dali to see the ancient city of Dali and the beautiful Erhai Lake.
If you have a passion for ethnic minority cultures, Lijiang boasts traditional Naxi architecture. Additionally, Lijiang's ancient city, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Tiger Leaping Gorge are also very famous.
Shangri-La is renowned for its natural scenery, including Pudacuo National Park and Songzanlin Monastery.
Option 4: Chengdu - See the Adorable Panda


Chengdu in February often experiences overcast and rainy weather, but it's best to avoid the continuous rain towards the end of the month. Chengdu is famous for its adorable pandas and relaxed, slow-paced lifestyle.
At the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, you can see so many pandas that you'll be overwhelmed, and if you go early, you might even see panda cubs.
Within Chengdu city, you can visit the historic Wuhou Shrine and experience the blend of tradition and modernity at Jinli Ancient Street and Kuanzhai Alley.
If you're interested in exploring the surrounding areas of Chengdu, you can also extend your trip to Mount Emei or the Leshan Giant Buddha.
Option 5: Tibet - Celebrate Tibetan New Year Festival


A Tibet Winter tour is also a popular choice, with some areas in Tibet reaching temperatures of up to 10°C (50°F).
Travelling to Tibet in Winter often means fewer crowds and lower prices. And in February, you'll also have the opportunity to participate in the unique Tibetan New Year Festival, which is a great chance to explore Tibetan festivals.
In addition to visiting attractions like the Potala Palace and Jokhang Temple, you can celebrate the New Year with a Tibetan family visit.
Travel Around China with Asia Odyssey Travel


With over 10 years of local experience in China, our professional team at Asia Odyssey Travel is well-equipped to bring you a meticulously planned February China trip, ensuring an authentic and memorable experience.
Leveraging our extensive expertise, we have carefully crafted a range of China tour packages, including Harbin tours, Beijing tours, Xi'an tours, Shanghai tours, Tibet tours, Yunnan tours, Guilin tours, and more.
Whether you prefer the flexibility of private tours or the affordability of group tours, we can provide you with professional English-speaking guides, transportation arrangements, emergency support, and more, all with compromising quality.
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