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Is March a Good Time to Visit China?
Wondering if March is a good time to visit China? Absolutely!
The China weather in March is just perfect – not too hot, not too cold. In places like Xian, the China temperature in March hovers between 10°C to 14°C – ideal for exploring.
Plus, China in March is less crowded, so you can enjoy popular spots like Dali without the usual hustle. Whether you're into blooming landscapes or cultural wonders, March offers a serene yet vibrant experience.
What Is the Weather Like in China in March?
The China in March weather is a delightful mix of spring warmth and regional surprises, making it an exciting time to explore. Let’s dive into the details for each region:
North China (Beijing, etc.)
In March, North China is waking up from winter.
Temperatures range from 0-10°C, but beware of “倒春寒” (late spring cold snaps)—sudden drops of 10°C or more! Rain and snow are possible, especially in Hebei and Shandong, so keep a sturdy jacket handy.
Pack layers for chilly mornings and windy afternoons.
Northwest China (Xian, Gansu, Xinjiang, Qinghai, etc.)
This region is a mix of extremes.
High-altitude areas like Qinghai and Xinjiang can be chilly (-5 to 5°C), while valleys like Shaanxi’s Guanzhong Plain are milder (around 10°C). Snow is possible in Gansu and Qinghai, but the stunning landscapes are worth the extra layers.
East China (Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Jiangxi, etc.)
East China is mild and pleasant in March, with temperatures averaging 10-20°C.
However, sudden cold snaps can drop temperatures by 15°C in a day! Rain is common, especially in Jiangsu and Zhejiang, so pack an umbrella and waterproof shoes.
South China (Guangzhou, Guilin, Xiamen, etc.)
South China is warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C—some areas even hit 30°C! However, strong rainstorms and thunderstorms are common, especially in Guangdong and Guangxi.
Don’t forget a light raincoat and sunscreen!
Southwest China (Chengdu, Chongqing, Yunnan, etc.)
This region is a traveler’s dream in March.
Yunnan and southern Sichuan are warm (15-22°C), perfect for exploring. However, Guizhou and Chongqing often see nighttime rain, and high-altitude areas like western Sichuan may still have snow.
Tibet and Surrounding Areas (Tibet, Western Sichuan)
Tibet in March is a mix of mild and cold. Lhasa averages 5-12°C, while Nyingchi (known for its peach blossoms) is slightly cooler. High-altitude areas like Nagqu and Ngari stay below freezing at night.
Rain or snow is possible, but the breathtaking scenery makes it worth the visit.
Where to Go in China in March? 15 Destinations with Things to Do
March is a magical time to explore China! With the China in March weather warming up and nature coming alive, there’s something for everyone. Here’s where to go in China in March and what to do:
| Destinations | Avg. March Temp | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Beijing | 10-20°C | Great Wall of China, peach and apricot blossom, Perking duck |
| Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou | 10-20°C | The Bund, West Lake, Suzhou gardens |
| Xian | 4-14°C | Terracotta Warriors, ancient city wall, cherry blossoms |
| Guangzhou | 18-19°C | Cherry blossoms, yellow bellflower forests, Cantonese dim sum |
| Nyingchi | 10-15°C | Peach flowers, Tibetan culture and food |
| Yunnan | 10-25°C | Lijiang Ancient City, Dali Ancient Town, Kunming Stone Forest |
| Chengdu, Chongqing | 10-20°C | Wuhou Temple, Du Fu Thatched Cottage, Hongya Caves, Sichuan cuisine |
| Xiamen | 14-21°C | Sunshine, sand, and blossoms |
| Southern Xinjiang | 2-16°C | Ili Valley, Kashgar Old Town, Bazaar, Tianshan Grand Canyon |
| Jiangxi | 10-20°C | Wuyuan rapeseed sea, Hui-style Ancient Villages, Mount Lu, Jingdezhen |
1. Beijing: Peach Flower, Apricot Blossom, Great Wall & Peking Duck
March is the perfect time to go to Beijing, with north China weather in March averaging 10°C to 20°C—just right for exploring.
The Great Wall of China in March is a must-see, especially at Mutianyu, where you can enjoy fewer crowds and stunning views of blooming peach and apricot flowers in mid to late March.
Don’t miss iconic spots like the Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square, or take a peaceful stroll through Jingshan Park to see spring blossoms, such as peach blossoms, magnolias, plum blossoms, etc.
Food lovers, dive into Peking duck and seasonal delights like spring pancakes.
2. Shanghai, Hangzhou & Suzhou: Modern Meets Classical
March brings mild weather in March (10-20°C) to the Jiangnan region of China, making popular destinations such as Shanghai, Hangzhou and Suzhou ideal for travel.
In Shanghai, explore the Bund and Disneyland, then take a side trip to Zhujiajiao Water Town for a taste of ancient China. It’s one of the must-see old towns in China.
Hangzhou’s West Lake is a springtime dream, with tulips, cherry blossoms, and tea fields waiting to be discovered. Culture enthusiasts can visit Lingyin Temple and Leifeng Pagoda.
In Suzhou, wander through Humble Administrator’s Garden, with a variety of flowers including cherry blossoms, magnolias, peach blossoms, camellias and weeping begonias, and enjoy local delicacies like squirrel-shaped mandarin fish.
Where to go in China in March? These cities offer a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
3. Xian: Cherry Blossoms and Ancient Wonders
With temperatures between 4°C and 14°C, Xi’an in March is cool but charming. March is a great time to explore Xi’an’s rich history and vibrant spring scenery.
In this ancient capital of 13 dynasties, you can admire cherry blossoms at Giant Wild Goose Pagoda or Qinglong Temple, then marvel at the Terracotta Warriors to talk to the ancients across the millennia.
There’s more! Rent a bike to ride along the ancient city walls, offering panoramic views of the old and new!
Finally, don’t leave without trying roujiamo (Chinese burgers) and biangbiang noodles in the Muslim Quarter.
4. Guangzhou: Flowers and Foodie Heaven
March in Guangzhou is warm (18-19°C) and vibrant. With its mix of natural beauty and culinary delights, Guangzhou is a top pick for where to go in China in March!
To hunt for spring scenery in Guangzhou, visit Baomo Garden or Baiyun Mountain for cherry blossoms, or marvel at golden canola fields and yellow bellflower forests.
In addition to the spring flowers, you can also explore Guangzhou’s historical sites such as Yongqing Fang, Shamian Island and Sacred Heart Cathedral, then dive into Cantonese dim sum at Taotaoju or Dian Dou De.
5. Nyingchi, Tibet: A Peach Blossoming Paradise
March in Nyingchi is cool but magical, with daytime temperatures around 10-15°C and nights dropping to 0-5°C.
This is the best time to witness the Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival, where wild peach trees bloom against snow-capped mountains. Visit Basum Lake and Suosong Village for breathtaking views of peach flowers.
Beyond that, you can immerse yourself in Tibetan culture with horseback riding, folk dances, and traditional foods like butter tea and tsampa.
Insider tips for visiting Nyingchi, Tibet:
- Nyingchi is also the most accessible part of Tibet, with lower altitude and fewer risks of altitude sickness.
- Foreigners must obtain a Tibet Travel Permit and join a guided tour—consider Asia Odyssey Travel for a seamless experience.
6. Yunan: Ancient Towns, Snow Mountains & Flowers
If you’re planning a trip to China in March, Yunnan is a dream destination with its perfect weather for outdoor adventures. The average temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring.
Start in Kunming, the “Spring City,” where temperatures hover between 10°C and 20°C. Wander through Cuihu Park and marvel at blooming cherry blossoms, azaleas, blue jacaranda, and camellias. Don’t miss the iconic Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with surreal karst formations.
In Lijiang, the weather is slightly cooler (5°C to 15°C), but it’s the best time to stroll through the Lijiang Old Town, adorned with fragrant magnolias. By mid-March, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain begins to thaw, offering breathtaking glacier views!
Dali is more than just natural beauty. Take a boat ride on Erhai Lake or hike Cangshan Mountain. The Dali Old Town is a treasure trove of Bai culture, where you can savor local delicacies like Erhai fish and rushan cheese.
7. Chengdu & Chongqing: Sichuan Cuisine and 4D Cityscapes
In March, Chengdu and Chongqing enjoy mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
In Chengdu, visit Wuhou Temple (or Wuhou Shrine) and Du Fu Thatched Cottage to admire cherry blossoms, feel the charm of classical gardens, and learn about Chinese history. Animal lovers, don't forget to visit Chengdu Panda Base to see lovely pandas!
In Chongqing, explore the Liberation Monument, Hongya Cave, and take a thrilling ride on the Yangtze River Cableway for panoramic views of this magical 4D city and the metro that runs through it.
Don’t miss the chance to savor Sichuan hotpot, dan dan noodles, Chongqing spicy noodles with peanut sauce, and other spicy delicacies.
8. Xiamen: Sunshine, Sand, and Blossoms
China weather in March is delightful in Xiamen, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 21°C. It’s the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities, though nights can be cooler, so pack a light jacket!
One of the highlights of Xiamen in March is its blossoming flowers. Head to Meihai Huatai for golden rapeseed fields or Huweishan Park’s Sakura Valley for cherry blossoms in mid-March.
No trip to Xiamen is complete without visiting Gulangyu Island, a car-free haven with stunning sea views. Take the Zhonggu Cable Car for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or cycle along the scenic Hulishan Coastal Road.
For a taste of local life, explore Zhongshan Road, the city’s bustling shopping street, and indulge in Xiamen’s famous seafood, shacha noodles, and peanut soup.
Don’t forget: The beaches like Huangcuo and Baicheng are perfect for a relaxing afternoon by the sea!
9. Southern Xinjiang: Apricot Blossoms and Ancient Silk Road Charm
When deciding where to go in China in March, Southern Xinjiang is a hidden gem. Southern Xinjiang enjoys milder temperatures (2°C to 16°C), making it perfect for exploration.
In mid-March, the Ili Valley transforms into a pink paradise as apricot blossoms blanket the hillsides, framed by snow-capped mountains. It’s a photographer’s dream!
Or, head to Kashgar Old Town, a living museum of Uyghur culture and heritage of the Silk Road in China. Wander through its maze-like streets, visit artisan workshops, and sip on traditional brick tea. Don’t miss the lively Sunday Livestock Bazaar, where locals trade sheep, cows, and camels.
For adventurers, explore the Tianshan Grand Canyon, a labyrinth of red sandstone cliffs, and hike its hidden trails for unforgettable views.
Pro tips:
- Most parts of Xinjiang are open to foreign visitors without a Xinjiang Travel Permit but some border areas, including Tashkurgan County, require one!
- Hiking in the canyon, watch out for slips and sun protection.
10. Jiangxi: Wuyuan’s Rapeseed Sea and Hui-style Ancient Villages
China in March is synonymous with blooming flowers, and Wuyuan in Jiangxi is the ultimate destination for rapeseed blossoms. The average temperature (10°C to 20°C) is perfect for outdoor exploration.
Wuyuan’s rapeseed fields are a sight to behold, with golden flowers stretching as far as the eye can see, set against traditional Hui-style architecture. It’s like stepping into a painting!
Beyond Wuyuan, visit Mount Lu, where misty peaks and ancient stone carvings create a mystical atmosphere. Or head to Jingdezhen, the “Porcelain Capital,” to learn about China’s ceramic heritage and even try your hand at pottery.
Foodies alert: Don’t leave without trying Jiangxi stir-fries, clay pot soups, and Nanchang rice noodles—flavors that will leave you craving more!
What to Wear in China in March?
Thinking about what to wear in China in March? China weather in March varies greatly, so let’s break it down.
In northern regions like Beijing, temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, but nights can drop to 0°C. Layer up with thermal wear, a sweater or fleece, and a windproof jacket or down coat. Pair thick pants like jeans with sturdy boots to stay cozy.
Heading south? Places like Yunnan or Xiamen are warmer, but mornings and evenings can still be chilly. Pack light jackets, long pants, and versatile layers like cardigans or windbreakers.
Pro tip: Always bring a scarf and comfortable walking shoes—perfect for exploring China in March!
Explore China in March with Asia Odyssey Travel
Traveling in China can be overwhelming, but with a trusted tour operator, your journey becomes seamless. At Asia Odyssey Travel, we take care of everything—customized itineraries, expert local guides, hassle-free transportation, and exclusive cultural experiences.
Why join a guided tour? No language barriers, insider access to hidden gems, China in March weather guide, and stress-free planning. Whether you want a deep dive into China’s history or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, we tailor every trip to your style.
Let’s make your China in March experience a lifetime. Contact us today and start planning your dream trip!
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