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Weather & Temperature in China during May
May is spring transitioning into summer, so it’s like the sweet spot. The weather is mostly pleasant and sunny across China, but it can vary depending on where you are.
| City | Temperature in May | City | Temperature in May |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | 14°C to 26°C (57°F to 79°F) | Lhasa | 6°C to 19°C (43°F to 66°F) |
| Xi'an | 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F) | Kunming | 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F) |
| Shanghai | 16°C to 24°C (61°F to 75°F) | Guilin | 19°C to 27°C (66°F to 81°F) |
| Chengdu | 17°C to 26°C (63°F to 79°F) | Zhangjiajie | 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F) |
| Chongqing | 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F) | Hangzhou | 17°C to 25°C (63°F to 77°F) |
Northern China (Beijing, Xi'an)
Weather: Spring is in full swing, with mild and comfortable temperatures. By late May, it starts feeling a bit warmer, but it’s never too hot.
Temperature: 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nights can still be a bit cooler, so it’s good to bring a light jacket or sweater.
Climate: Mostly sunny with occasional breezes. The weather’s perfect for sightseeing, hiking the Great Wall, or exploring the ancient city of Xi'an and its Terracotta Army.
Eastern China (Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou)
Weather: Warm and humid, but it’s still bearable. It’s a great time to hanging out without the scorching summer heat.
Temperature: 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with a bit of humidity creeping in as the month goes on. It can get hotter towards the end of May.
Climate: The skies are mostly clear, with just occasional light rain showers. Perfect weather to stroll along the Bund in Shanghai or take a boat ride on the lake in Hangzhou.
Southern China (Guilin, Yangshuo, Chengdu)
Weather: Southern China can start feeling a bit humid as May rolls in, especially in cities like Chengdu and Guilin. It’s the start of the rainy season in this region, so there might be some afternoon showers or a bit of drizzle, but it’s not a total washout.
Temperature: 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). It’s comfortably warm but can get stickier in places like Chengdu (hello, hotpot weather!).
Climate: Expect higher humidity and occasional rain, but the overall vibe is relaxed and green. The stunning karst mountains of Yangshuo and Guilin’s misty rivers are particularly beautiful in May, with lush greenery everywhere.
Western China (Tibet, Xinjiang, Yunnan)
The weather in Lhasa and Tibet is cool and refreshing in May. Temperatures are moderate from 5°C to 18°C (41°F to 64°F) , but mornings and evenings can be chilly due to the high altitude.
May is one of the best months to visit Tibet, as the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas are still pristine, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Xinjiang starts warming up, but the temperatures are still manageable (15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) ) in May. The weather is dry with plenty of sunshine, so it’s perfect for exploring the Silk Road sites, the vast deserts, and ancient ruins without the extreme summer heat.
May is one of the best months to visit Yunnan. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), though it can feel cooler at higher altitudes like Shangri-La. The weather is mostly sunny with occasional light showers, especially in the mountainous areas.
It’s the start of the flower season, and the landscapes are lush and green. The terraces of Yuanyang and the lush valleys are in full bloom, making it a perfect time for outdoor adventures.
Best Places to Visit in May in China
May is one of the best months to explore China. The weather is mild and comfortable, offering the perfect conditions for sightseeing without the scorching heat of summer. Whether you're discovering the buzz of cities or immersing yourself in natural landscapes, May offers an exciting travel experience across the country.
Here are some of the top destinations you won’t want to miss!
1. City Charm: Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and More
May is a great time to visit China’s famous gateway cities. The temperatures are just right, making it perfect for city exploration in light clothing.
- Beijing in May: The weather is ideal for exploring iconic landmarks like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven. The days are warm but not too hot, and the nights cool down, which makes sightseeing so much more enjoyable.
- Shanghai in May: This modern metropolis is buzzing with energy. The weather is perfect for a stroll along the Bund, a visit to the tranquil Yu Garden, or a bike ride through the French Concession, with its charming tree-lined streets and colonial architecture.
- Chengdu in May: Known for its laid-back charm and delicious food, Chengdu is perfect in May. Visit the Sichuan Opera, wander around Wuhou Shrine, or indulge in hotpot. With mild temperatures, it's also great for day trips to Dujiangyan Irrigation System or Mount Qingcheng.
2. Guilin & Yangshuo - Nature at its Best
If you're after stunning landscapes and the famous karst peaks, Guilin and Yangshuo are must-visits in May, where the temperatures are perfect for outdoor activities.
- Li River Cruise: A 4-hour journey through Guilin’s Li River offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in China. Limestone peaks rising out of the river make for incredible photos. May is the ideal time to experience it without the summer crowds.
- Bamboo Rafting in Yangshuo: Once you get to Yangshuo, don’t miss a peaceful bamboo rafting trip down the Yulong River. The lush landscapes are stunning, and you’ll see the famous karst mountains up close, surrounded by greenery.
- Cycling Around Countryside: If rafting isn’t your thing, you can rent a bike and ride through Yangshuo’s countryside, exploring small villages, rolling hills, and ancient paths. The weather in May is warm but not hot, making it the perfect time for a leisurely ride.
3. Zhangjiajie - Walk Among the Floating Mountains
For nature lovers and thrill-seekers, Zhangjiajie is a must in May. Known for inspiring the film Avatar, it offers a one-of-a-kind landscape that looks like something out of a fantasy world.
- Avatar Mountains: These towering sandstone pillars, part of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, will leave you speechless. The misty mornings and warm afternoons of May add a mystical touch to the already jaw-dropping scenery.
- Bailong Elevator: Take the world’s tallest glass elevator and rise 335 meters in just 66 seconds. It’s the quickest way to access the top for an incredible panoramic view of the Avatar Mountains.
- Glass Bridge: Walk on the world’s longest glass bridge across the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. In May’s mild temperatures, the experience is thrilling but not too intense.
- Tianmen Mountain: Take a cable car to Tianmen Mountain and climb the famous 999 steps to reach the Heaven’s Gate. May offers clear skies, giving you the best possible views of this awe-inspiring natural formation.
4. Jiangnan Watertowns in Yangtze River Delta
May is a perfect month to visit the Jiangnan Watertowns, where you can explore traditional Chinese architecture and culture along peaceful canals.
- Boating in West Lake (Hangzhou): West Lake is stunning in May, with its misty waters and lush surroundings. Take a boat ride to soak in the serene beauty of the lake and visit nearby temples and pagodas.
- Watertowns: Zhujiajiao, Wuzhen, and Xitang are some of the most charming water towns near Shanghai. Wander through narrow alleys, cross ancient stone bridges, and explore the old wooden houses that line the canals. It’s like stepping back in time.
- Suzhou Gardens: Suzhou is famous for its classic Chinese gardens. In May, the gardens are full of blooming flowers, with peaceful ponds and intricate rock formations to admire.
- Rickshaw Ride in Watertown: In these ancient towns, hop on a traditional rickshaw to explore the winding streets and narrow alleys, where you’ll find quaint teahouses and ancient shops.
5. Yangtze River Cruise - Explore the Majestic Three Gorges
Yangtze River Landscape reaches its peak in May, with clear water and green mountains. A 4-day Yangtze River Cruise is one of the best ways to experience the incredible natural beauty of Three Gorges and historic sites along China’s longest river.
- Qutang Gorge: The shortest but most striking of the three, with steep cliffs rising up to 1,500 meters (4,900 feet).
- Wu Gorge: Known for its misty, dreamlike beauty and the famous Goddess Peak, this gorge is a highlight for photographers.
- Xiling Gorge: The longest of the three, featuring powerful currents and historical sites along its rugged cliffs.
- Three Gorges Dam: World’s largest hydroelectric project in Yichang, Hubei
- Shore Excursions: during the 4-day itinerary, you’ll explore historic sites such as Fengdu Ghost City, White Emperor City, and other scenic spots such as Lesser Three Gorges, Shennv Stream.
Best Hiking and Trekking Routes in China in May
Hiking the Great Wall of China – Mutianyu Section
Located 73 kilometers away from downtown Beijing, Mutianyu Great Wall is the longest and most beautiful section of the Great Wall of China. The section offers routes ranging from 2-hour to one-day hikes, and it’s family-friendly with easy and moderate stone steps.
During May, the temperature is perfect (15-25°C / 59-77°F), and the lush greenery makes the Wall even more stunning. You can expect:
- Less crowded than Badaling, but equally majestic
- Well-preserved watchtowers and panoramic mountain views
- Cablecar ride and slide experience if exhausted
Hiking in Tiger Leaping Gorge of Lijiang, Yunan
Hiking in Tiger Leaping Gorge, located in Yunnan Province between Lijiang and Shangri-La, is renowned as one of China’s most spectacular and adventurous trekking experiences. The gorge offers routes ranging from half-day to multi-day hikes, with the High Trail (22 km) being the most popular.
This section is physically demanding but rewards hikers with panoramic views of the Jinsha River (Upper Yangtze River) and surrounding snow-capped peaks like Yulong and Haba Snow Mountains. Trails are narrow and cliffside in parts, requiring caution.
Spring rains make the Jinsha River roar with power, and the greenery is at its peak. The air is fresh, and temperatures are pleasant (10-20°C / 50-68°F).
Hiking in Huangshan Mountain
Located in eastern China, Huangshan Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most renowned mountain with its natural wonders (Twisted Pine Trees, Dramatic Rock Formations, Sea of Clouds,Stunning Sunrises).
In May, the mountain is green and full of life, with blooming azaleas and sea of clouds floating over jagged peaks. The weather is comfortable (10-22°C / 50-72°F). Hiking in Huangshan Mountain, yon can expect:
- Iconic granite peaks like Lotus Peak and Flying-over Rock
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views from the summit
- Traditional stone pathways winding through ancient pine forests
Festivals in May in China
Labor Day Holiday
Labor Day in China is a 5-day holiday (yep, that’s a nice long break), and it’s the third major vacation of the year after the Spring Festival and National Day (10/1). It’s not really about family time—it’s more about taking advantage of the perfect weather to rush to scenic spots and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Think: hiking, sightseeing, and soaking in the great outdoors. Most people take this opportunity to travel, so tourist spots get pretty crowded. If you’re planning on visiting famous attractions or national parks, expect it to be packed, but also super vibrant with people out enjoying the long break.
Dragon Boat Festival
Sometimes it falls in May, but it could also land in early June. This festival is all about dragon boat racing, eating zongzi (sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves), and celebrating the legendary poet Qu Yuan.
It’s a really fun and lively festival—if you're lucky enough to be in a city where there’s a dragon boat race (usually in southern provinces), it’s definitely worth checking out!
Optional destination for dragon boat race: Yueyang in Hunan, Zhenyuan in Guizhou, Xiangyang in Hubei, Quanzhou in Fujian.
Packing Tips for China Travel in May
If you’re not planning to visit Tibet, packing for China in May is quite simple. Lightweight clothing such as T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and long pants will be enough, along with a light jacket and comfortable sneakers. If you plan to visit mountainous areas, bringing an extra hoodie or sweater is recommended.
For waterproofing your shoes, plastic bags or disposable waterproof shoe covers—which are commonly used in China—can be a convenient solution.
If you’re heading to high-altitude regions like Tibet or western Sichuan, keeping warm is still essential. Make sure to pack a down jacket, thick coat, and fleece-lined pants.
Additionally, May’s sunlight can be quite strong, so sun protection is important. Since sunscreen may have restrictions during luggage security checks, a wide-brimmed hat is a better alternative.
How to Plan a China Tour in May
Considering a 15-day itinerary to experience China’s most breathtaking landscapes in May? The well-connected high-speed rail network makes it easy to travel seamlessly between cities.
Start your journey in Beijing, spending 3 days exploring the capital’s rich history and hiking the Great Wall. Then, take a high-speed train to the ancient capital of Xi'an to witness the spectacular Terracotta Army.
Next, continue by high-speed train to Chengdu, where you can visit the mysterious Sanxingdui ruins and the adorable pandas at the Chengdu Research Base. From there, take another high-speed train to Guilin, home to stunning karst mountains and winding rivers. Enjoy a Li River Cruise and bamboo rafting on the Yulong River.
Then, take a high-speed train to Chongqing and board a Yangtze River Cruise ship in the evening (before 20:00) for a 3-night journey through the breathtaking Three Gorges, ending at the Three Gorges Dam in Yichang. From there, catch a train to Shanghai.
Finally, conclude your China adventure in Shanghai, where you can admire the city’s iconic skyline along the Bund.
Explore China in May with Asia Odyssey Travel
May is one of the best months to visit China, with comfortable temperatures, blooming landscapes, and lively festivals. Hike the Great Wall under clear blue skies, cruise the Li River surrounded by lush greenery, or explore Yunnan’s vibrant ethnic culture.
With Asia Odyssey Travel, your trip is hassle-free—customized itineraries, expert local guides, and smooth transportation. No language barriers, just insider access to China’s best-kept secrets.
Let’s make your May adventure unforgettable! Contact us today and start planning.
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