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Weather Overview & Temperature in September in China
Compared to the heat and rainy season of July and August, temperatures in China in September drop slightly, making it less sweltering and reducing the likelihood of sweating with just a bit of activity.
Humidity also decreases, so the air feels less sticky and more comfortable. Except for southern regions, which may still face typhoons and rainstorms, most areas are relatively sunny and dry, making it ideal for travel and outdoor activities.
| City | Temperature in Sep. | Destination | Temperature in Sep. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) | Lijiang | 12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F) |
| Xi'an | 15°C to 24°C (59°F to 75°F) | Guilin | 21°C to 29°C (70°F to 84°F) |
| Shanghai | 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 81°F) | Zhangjiajie | 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) |
| Chengdu | 19°C to 25°C (66°F to 77°F) | Jiuzhaigou | 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F) |
| Lhasa | 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F) | Kanas | 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) |
| Dunhuang | 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F) | Huangshan | 13°C to 20°C (55°F to 68°F) |
Northern China in September (Beijing, Xi'an, Henan, Shanxi)
Northern China in September is a golden time to explore—comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and a rich tapestry of history and culture await.
Perfect Weather for Exploration
September in Northern China offers goldilocks weather—not too hot, not too cold. With daytime temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F), you can comfortably hike the Great Wall or bike around Xi'an’s Ancient City Wall without breaking a sweat.
Evenings are crisp and cool, dipping to 10-15°C (50-59°F), making it ideal for strolling through Beijing’s hutongs or enjoying a hot bowl of Xi'an’s famous lamb soup.
The region sees low rainfall (30–50 mm), so you can count on sunny skies and dry days for outdoor adventures.
Cultural and Historical Immersion Without the Crowds
Summer tourists have left, and the October holiday crowds haven’t arrived yet, meaning you’ll have famous sites almost to yourself.
In Beijing, you can delve into imperial grandeur at the Forbidden City, Summer Palace and Temple of Heaven, all bathed in beautiful golden light. The Great Wall’s visibility is at its best, allowing you to see the wall stretching far into the distance.
In Xi'an, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Muslim Quarter offer a sensory overload of spices, skewers, and silk road history. There won’t be too crowded in Terra Cotta Army and it’s easy to cycle City wall.
In Henan, you can explore the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple in peace, while Shanxi offers the chance to wander through ancient walled cities like Datong and Pingyao without the hustle and bustle.
Packing Tips for Northern China in September
- Clothing: Light layers are key—think T-shirts for daytime and a light jacket or sweater for evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration and sturdy sneakers for hiking.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, a sun hat, and a reusable water bottle for sunny days.
Eastern China in September (Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Huangshan)
Eastern China in September is a delightful mix of urban charm and natural beauty, with mild weather and fewer crowds making it an ideal time to explore.
Perfect Weather for City and Nature
September brings warm but comfortable temperatures, ranging from 18–27°C (64–81°F) during the day and cooling to 15–20°C (59–68°F) at night. The humidity of summer begins to fade, making it pleasant to stroll along Shanghai’s Bund or cycle around Hangzhou’s West Lake.
While there may be occasional showers (rainfall: 50–100 mm), they’re usually brief and refreshing. Water towns in rain is more fun.
Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Beauty
With summer crowds gone, you can enjoy Shanghai’s skyline and Suzhou’s classical gardens without the hustle and bustle.
In Hangzhou, the lotus blooms on West Lake are still vibrant, and the tea plantations in Longjing are lush and inviting. For nature lovers, Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) offers misty peaks and early autumn foliage, creating a painterly landscape.
Packing Tips for Eastern China in September
- Clothing: Light layers, including a light jacket for cooler evenings. Huangshan need more to keep warm.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration and hiking.
- Accessories: A compact umbrella and sunscreen for occasional showers and sunny days.
Southern China in September (Guilin, Yangshuo, Guangzhou, Shenzhen)
Southern China in September is a tropical paradise with warm temperatures and lush landscapes, making it perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.
Warm but Manageable Weather
September marks the transition from summer’s heat to autumn’s mildness. Daytime temperatures hover around 21–29°C (70–84°F), making it ideal for activities like biking through Yangshuo’s karst mountains or cruising the Li River.
Nights are comfortably warm at 18–23°C (64–73°F), perfect for evening strolls or night market adventures.
While the typhoon lingers, occasionally bringing rain (rainfall: 100–150 mm), it’s usually short-lived and adds to the region’s lush greenery.
Natural Wonders and Cultural Gems
In Guilin and Yangshuo, the Li River and karst mountains are at their most picturesque in September. After the rainy season, the river is full and crystal clear, making it perfect for a Li River cruise from Guilin to Yangshuo. Upon arrival in Yangshuo, take a bamboo raft cruise or cycle through the scenic rice paddies.
Additionally, the Longji Rice Terraces, north of Guilin, begin transitioning from deep green to golden hues in mid to late September, reaching their peak golden color by the end of the month and early October.
In Guangzhou and Shenzhen, explore vibrant markets, modern skyscrapers, and Cantonese cuisine.
Packing Tips for Southern China in September
- Clothing: Lightweight, breathable fabrics and a rain jacket.
- Footwear: Comfortable sandals or walking shoes.
- Accessories: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Western China in September (Chengdu, Tibet, Yunnan)
Western China in September offers crisp weather and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts.
Cool and Clear Days
September in Western China brings crisp, refreshing weather with low rainfall, ensuring clear skies and excellent visibility. Temperatures range from 9–20°C (48–68°F) during the day and drop to 5–10°C (41–50°F) at night.
Rainfall is low (20–50 mm), ensuring clear skies for exploring Tibet’s Mount Everest or hiking Jiuzhaigou Valley’s colorful lakes.
Cultural and Natural Highlights
In Chengdu, September is perfect for visiting pandas—the cool, comfortable weather keeps both visitors and the animals happy. Don’t miss out on local street food and a fiery hot pot experience!
Jiuzhaigou in September has not yet ushered in the most beautiful autumn colors, but the large green forests and blue-green pools are intoxicating. It is very enjoyable to hike along the forest trail and appreciate the changing pools along the way.
In Tibet, September’s sunshine makes temples and monasteries glow with a golden hue, adding to their sacred charm. The clear skies also offer breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and the majestic Himalayas.
In Yunnan, September is the best time to hike Tiger Leaping Gorge and soak in the peaceful vibes of Lijiang’s quaint old towns over a cup of coffee. In Dali, a bike ride along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor and a visit to Xizhou Ancient Town’s golden farmlands make for a truly relaxing experience.
Packing Tips for Western China in September
- Clothing: Warm layers, including a jacket or fleece for cool evenings.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes for outdoor adventures.
- Accessories: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and altitude meds (for Tibet).
Central China in September (Zhangjiajie, Chongqing, Yangtze River Cruise)
September in Central China offers a perfect mix of mild weather and breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
Mild and Pleasant Weather
In cities like Chongqing, daytime temperatures range from 20–30°C (68–86°F), with cooler nights at 18–22°C (64–72°F).
Zhangjiajie and the Yangtze River region are typically 2–5°C (3–9°F) cooler, offering refreshing conditions for sightseeing.
Rainfall is moderate (50–100 mm), but rarely affects travel plans—great for hiking and river cruises.
Iconic Landscapes and Urban Adventures
In Zhangjiajie, clear skies enhance the views from Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, Tianzi Mountain, and Tianmen Mountain, making hikes more rewarding. The Ten-Mile Gallery at the mountain’s base is lush and scenic, ideal for family-friendly strolls. Don’t miss the world’s longest glass bridge at Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon.
In Chongqing, September is perfect for a night tour of Chongqing, where Hongya Cave and Qiansimen Bridge light up the skyline. At Chaotianmen, iconic Yangtze River Cruise ships prepare to set sail, usually around 9 PM.
September is one of the best months to explore the Three Gorges by a Yangtze River Cruise. The high water levels create stunning scenery, where lush mountains reflect beautifully on the river’s surface.
Packing Tips for Central China in September
- Clothing: Lightweight long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirts for daytime, with a warm layer for cooler mornings and evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes—expect a lot of hiking!
- Accessories: Mosquito repellent may be useful in scenic areas.
Northwestern China in September (Kanas Lake, Urumqi, Turpan, Dunhuang, Zhangye)
Northwestern China in September is a dry and sunny escape, offering a mix of history and natural beauty along the China Ancient Silk Road across Xinjiang and Gansu
Dry and Sunny Weather
In Urumqi and Turpan, it’s warm during the day (22–30°C / 72–86°F), but cooler at night (10–18°C / 50–64°F). Turpan, known as China’s hottest city, is significantly cooler than in summer, making outdoor travel much more pleasant.
In Dunhuang and Zhangye, expect 15–28°C (59–82°F) with little rainfall, ideal for desert adventures and photography.
In Kanas Lake, expect cooler temperatures (5–18°C / 41–64°F), especially in the early mornings and evenings. This alpine region starts showing golden autumn colors by mid-September.
Historical and Natural Wonders
Kanas Lake is one of China’s most breathtaking autumn destinations. By mid-to-late September, the forests surrounding the turquoise lake turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the snow-capped Altai Mountains. The area is also home to the mysterious Tuwa villages.
In Turpan, visit the Jiaohe Ancient City and Flaming Mountains, where September’s cooler temperatures make exploration enjoyable. Don’t miss the grape harvest season—fresh, sun-dried raisins are at their best!
Dunhuang is a must-visit along the Silk Road, with Mogao Caves’ Buddhist murals, the Singing Sand Dunes, and a chance to ride a camel across the Gobi Desert at Crescent Lake.
The Rainbow Mountains of Zhangye Danxia look even more vivid under the September sun. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to witness their surreal, layered colors.
Packing Tips for Northwestern China in September
- Clothing: Layered outfits—light clothing for the day, but a warm jacket for early mornings and evenings, especially in Kanas and Dunhuang.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking or hiking shoes for desert and mountain terrain.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat—desert areas have strong sunlight.
- Scarf or Mask: Useful for sand protection when exploring Dunhuang’s desert landscapes.
Mid-Autumn Festival in China in September
This is the one with all the mooncakes!
The Mid-Autumn Festival usually falls in September (though sometimes it’s in early October). It’s a time for families to get together, admire the moon, and share mooncakes—sweet pastries filled with lotus seed paste or red bean paste, often with salted egg yolks in the center.
It’s one of the most beloved festivals in China, and you’ll see lantern displays, traditional performances, and plenty of people enjoying family time. If you’re around, it’s a must-try experience—both the mooncakes and the cozy family vibe.
How to Plan a Trip to China in September
Option one: Beijing - Xian - Zhangjiajie - Guilin - Shanghai
Day 1–4: Beijing
- Explore the Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square.
- Hike the Mutianyu Great Wall and visit the Summer Palace.
- Marvel at the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
Day 5–6: Xi'an
- Discover the Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City Wall.
- Stroll the Muslim Quarter and visit the Shaanxi History Museum.
Day 7–9: Zhangjiajie
- Hike the Avatar Mountains and walk the Glass Bridge.
- Explore Tianzi Mountain and Baofeng Lake.
Day 10–11: Guilin & Yangshuo
- Cruise the Li River and bike through Yangshuo’s countryside.
- Visit Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave.
Day 12–13: Shanghai
- Wander The Bund and Nanjing Road.
- Explore Yu Garden and ascend the Shanghai Tower.
Option Two: Beijing - Xian - Guilin - Chongqing - Yangtze - Shanghai
Day 1–4: Beijing
- Explore the Forbidden City and Tian’anmen Square.
- Hike the Mutianyu Great Wall and visit the Summer Palace.
- Marvel at the Bird’s Nest and Water Cube.
Day 5–6: Xi'an
- Discover the Terracotta Warriors and Ancient City Wall.
- Stroll the Muslim Quarter and visit the Shaanxi History Museum.
Day 7–8: Guilin & Yangshuo
- Cruise the Li River and bike through Yangshuo’s countryside.
- Visit Elephant Trunk Hill and Reed Flute Cave.
Day 9–11: Yangtze River Cruise
- Sail through the Three Gorges (Qutang, Wu, Xiling) and visit the Three Gorges Dam.
- Explore Shibaozhai Pagoda and Shennv Stream.
Day 12–13: Shanghai
- Wander The Bund and Nanjing Road.
- Explore Yu Garden and ascend the Shanghai Tower.
Option Three: Xian - Lanzhou - Zhangye - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang - Turpan - Urumqi -Kanas Lake
Day 1–2: Xi'an
- Discover the Terracotta Warriors, one of the greatest archaeological finds in the world.
- Walk along the Ancient City Wall for panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the vibrant Muslim Quarter and taste local delicacies.
- Visit the Shaanxi History Museum for a deep dive into the region’s rich past.
Day 3–7: Gansu (Lanzhou, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang)
- Lanzhou: Visit the Yellow River Mother Statue, experience the cultural heritage at Gansu Provincial Museum, and try hand-pulled Lanzhou beef noodles.
- Zhangye: Marvel at the surreal Rainbow Mountains in Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park.
- Jiayuguan: Explore Jiayuguan Pass, the westernmost end of the Great Wall, and learn about its strategic significance.
- Dunhuang: Discover the stunning Mogao Caves, a UNESCO-listed treasure trove of Buddhist art, and experience a camel ride in the Mingsha Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake.
Day 8–14: Xinjiang (Turpan, Urumqi, Tianshan Tianchi, Kanas Lake, Karamay)
- Turpan: Explore the Jiaohe Ancient City, one of the best-preserved earthen cities, visit the Karez Irrigation System, and see the Flaming Mountains.
- Urumqi: Wander the lively Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, a hub for local culture and cuisine.
- Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake): Enjoy the breathtaking alpine lake nestled among the Tianshan Mountains.
- Kanas Lake: Experience the fairy-tale beauty of Kanas Lake, known for its pristine waters, mysterious lake legends, and surrounding golden forests.
- Karamay: Witness the unique wind-eroded landscapes of Ghost City, a surreal desert landform shaped by strong winds over time.
Explore China in September with Asia Odyssey Travel
September in China brings mild weather, golden landscapes, and the perfect balance between summer warmth and autumn beauty. It’s the ideal time to walk the ancient streets of Xi’an, trek through Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains, or enjoy a Yangtze River cruise.
With Asia Odyssey Travel, you get expertly planned routes, local guides, and seamless travel logistics. No stress, just an incredible journey tailored to you.
China in September is waiting—let’s plan your dream trip today!
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