Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
What Months Is Summer in China?
Generally, the summer months in China spans June, July and August, but guess what? It’s not the same everywhere! China’s vast landscape means summer feels different depending on where you go. Let us at Asia Odyssey Travel break it down for you:
- South (e.g., Guangzhou, Hainan): Summer’s long and steamy—late April to early October, with typhoons from July to September.
- North (e.g., Beijing, Harbin): Hot and dry—mid-June to late August, with occasional rain.
- Highlands (e.g., Tibet, Yunnan): Mild and cool—July to August, with temps around 15-25°C and chilly nights, making them the best places to visit in China’s summer!
16 Best Places to Visit in China During Summer
Check out the table below to find out where to go in China in summer.
| Destinations | Avg. Summer Temp | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tibet | 20°C/68°F | Plateau landscapes, sacred lakes, Buddhist culture |
| Zhangjiajie | 23°C/73°F | Stone pillars, Avatar peaks, Karst wonders |
| Yangshuo | 27°C/80°F | Bamboo rafting, Karst landscapes, countryside cycling |
| Jiuzhaigou Valley | 20°C/68°F | Colorful lakes, multi-tier waterfalls, UNESCO Site |
| Huangshan | 20°C/68°F | Pines, rocks, cloud sea |
| Yangtze River Cruise | / | Gorges exploration, historical sites, luxury cruises |
| Shangri-La | 15°C/59°F | Highland meadows, Tibetan monasteries, mystical vibes |
| Guizhou | 23°C/73°F | Karst villages, ethnic culture, waterfalls |
| Xiamen | 28°C/82°F | Islands, beaches, architecture, tea culture |
| Chengde Mountain Resort | 22°C/72°F | Imperial gardens, summer retreat, Beijing’s Backyard |
| Qinghai | 17°C/63°F | Qinghai Lake, yak safaris, plateau sunsets |
| Tianshui | 23°C/73°F | Ancient Grottoes, Yellow River |
| Xinjiang | 24°C/75°F | Desert oases, Uyghur culture, lakes |
| Hulunbuir | 20°C/68°F | Vast grasslands, Mongolian nomads |
| Datong | 26°C/79°F | Buddha Grottoes, ancient walls, historic fortresses |
| Qingdao | 25°C/77°F | Coastal vibes, beer, architecture |
1. Tibet: A Spiritual Retreat for Summer in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 20°C/68°F
Average Altitude: 4,000 m
How to Get There: Take a flight or train from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xian or Chengdu in mainland China. You can also drive to Lhasa from Chengdu.
With its cool high-altitude climate, Lhasa is a spiritual haven during summer in China.
Visit the iconic Potala Palace, where Tibetan culture and history come alive. The calm Jokhang Temple and the serene Norbulingka are perfect for peaceful reflection.
More destinations outside of Lhasa are also not to be missed this summer!
Surrounding mountains and lakes like Yamdrok Lake provide breathtaking views, while trekking to Ganden Monastery offers an authentic Tibetan experience. For adventure seekers, take a route to Mount Everest for a glimpse of the world's tallest peak.
2. Zhangjiajie: No.1 Natural Escape in China’s Summer
Avg. Summer Temp: 23°C/73°F
How to Get There: See our high speed train guide for Beijing to Zhangjiajie, Chengdu to Zhangjiajie, or Xian to Zhangjiajie.
Zhangjiajie is one of the best places to visit in China in summer, famous for its dramatic quartzite peaks and lush forests.
Not sure where to start exploring Zhangjiajie? Follow my words!
Walk on the world’s highest glass bridge at Tianmen Mountain, or visit the Avatar Hallelujah Mountain, a stunning natural wonder. Take a boat ride along Golden Whip Stream, and explore Yuanjiajie for views of its towering sandstone formations.
There's more! The cool, fresh air and diverse adventures—canyon rappelling or Tujia feasts—make it a refreshing escape into nature.
3. Shangri-La: A Dreamy Destination for Summer in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 15°C/59°F
How to Get There: Accessible by flight from Kunming or by road from other cities in Yunnan.
Shangri-La, often referred to as "the closest place to heaven," is a dreamlike destination for summer in China. Its cool climate and breathtaking landscapes make it perfect for escaping the summer heat.
From Tibetan monasteries to snow-capped mountains and lush meadows, it offers an incredible range of experiences. Spoiler alert!
If you want to explore the local culture, visit the Songzanlin Monastery to learn about Tibetan Buddhism.
Nature lovers can hike in the beautiful Pudacuo National Park. The Tiger Leaping Gorge offers thrilling trekking experiences. Summer is also the perfect time to witness the lush wildflower blooms in Shangri-La’s vast meadows.
For gourmets, don't forget to try the local Tibetan cuisine. Yak meat and butter tea will give you an authentic taste of the highlands.
4. Yangshuo: Discover China’s Countryside Charm This Summer
Avg. Summer Temp: 27°C/80°F
How to Get There: Take a 2-hour bamboo rafting trip from Guilin to Yangshuo.
Yangshuo is an enchanting escape, ideal for a summer getaway. What kind of travel experiences can you get in Yangshuo?
For leisure travelers, take a relaxing bamboo raft ride along the Li River to witness picturesque karst mountains rising from clear waters. Or stroll along the charming West Street, lined with quirky shops and cafes, or drift down the tranquil Yulong River on a bamboo raft.
For the adventurous, enjoy rock climbing, cycling, hiking, ballooning, and paragliding amid stunning natural beauty.
Oh, and this! Evening views of the karst hills are perfect for a sunset, creating a magical atmosphere!
5. Jiuzhaigou Valley: A Summer Paradise on Earth in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 20°C/68°F
Average Altitude: 2,500 m, which is not too high for most travelers, so altitude sickness is not a problem.
How to Get There: About 400 km from Chengdu, about 1.5-3 hours by high-speed train
Summer in Jiuzhaigou feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The park’s iconic multi-colored lakes and waterfalls are surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks. A peaceful, cool retreat in China summer to connect with nature!
Get ready to feast your eyes!
Take time to explore the serene alpine lakes such as Five-colored Pond, Changhai Lake, Five-flower Lake, Rhinoceros Lake, Panda Lake, and Reed Lake. Admire and the stunning Nuorilang Waterfall. Hike along the wooden pathways, and take in the crisp mountain air.
Beyond the sights, the valley’s ethnic culture adds a unique charm, with Tibetan cuisine and performances enhancing your experience.
6. Huangshan: An Underrated Summer Destination in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 20°C/68°F
How to Get There: High-speed train or plane to Huangshan city first, then take a tour bus to Huangshan Scenic Area
Highlights: Cloud seas, ancient pine trees, etc.
Summer in China is the perfect time to experience Huangshan’s stunning landscapes. Known for its mystical cloud seas and ancient pine trees, the mountain offers breathtaking views, especially after rain when the peaks appear through mist.
This is how you can explore the beauty of Huangshan!
Wander along trails leading to Lotus Peak and Bright Summit for panoramic vistas. The stone formations here, like the Monkey Viewing the Sea, are otherworldly.
For culture lovers, explore ancient temples and stone inscriptions, blending natural beauty with history.
7. Guizhou: Explore Ethnic Culture During Summer in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 23°C/73°F
Highlights: Waterfalls, karst landscapes, ancient towns, ethnic culture, etc.
Guizhou’s cool climate and lush green scenery make it one of the best places to visit in China during summer. It’s known for its waterfalls, dramatic gorges, and vibrant ethnic culture.
A visit to the Huangguoshu Waterfall will take your breath away—it’s one of the largest in Asia and home to the Monkey King from Journey to the West. The Libo Small Seven Arches, a beautiful spot with clear rivers and stunning karst landscapes, is a must for nature lovers.
Don’t miss one of China's must-see ancient towns!
Imagine walking through the Zhenyuan Ancient Town, with its 2000-year-old bridges and tranquil river views. Interact with the Miao ethnic people in the villages, where you can learn about their fascinating traditions.
Besides the Miao, Guizhou has 18 other hereditary minorities, including the Buyi, Dong, Tujia, Yi, Gelao, Shui, Hui, Bai, Yao, Zhuang, She, Maonan, Manchu, Mongolian, Mulao and Qiang—your adventure awaits!
8. Qinghai: Peaceful Summer Getaway in China with Salt Lakes
Avg. Summer Temp: 17°C/63°F
Highlights: Qinghai Lake, Chaka Salt Lake, Xining Ta'er Monastery, Qinghai-Tibet Railway, etc.
For a peaceful summer getaway, Qinghai is one of the most serene places in China. It’s the base of the Qinghai-Tibet Railway!
The region is home to the beautiful Qinghai Lake, where the cool summer weather and vibrant wildflowers create a picture-perfect atmosphere. You can rent a bike and ride around the lake, or take a peaceful boat trip on its blue waters.
In the area, Chaka Salt Lake is another stunning spot, often referred to as “the mirror of the sky.”
If you want to go one step further, there are more attractions in Qinghai and you can explore Tibetan culture in Xining, the capital of Qinghai, and visit ancient monasteries such as Ta'er Monastery.
9. Tianshui: Cool Summer Adventure to China’s Ancient Grottoes
Avg. Summer Temp: 23°C/73°F
Location: Southeastern part of Gansu, at the junction of Shaanxi, Gansu and Sichuan.
How to Get There: The train from Xi'an to Tianshui will only take about 2 hours.
Tianshui is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a cool, historical summer trip in China.
The famous Maijishan Grottoes, carved into a cliffside, are a must-see. Inside, you’ll find ancient Buddhist sculptures and murals that take you back in time. Afterward, head to Bingling Temple Grottoes, an even older site located on the banks of the Yellow River, where you can admire Buddha statues that have stood the test of time.
Hold onto your hats! To get to the Binglingsi Grottoes, you’ll take an exhilarating boat ride on the Yellow River, the Mother River of China!
How can you plan a trip to Tianshui? You can include it in a China Grottoes Corridor Tour, which starts in Xian, passes through Tianshui and Lanzhou, and ends in Dunhuang, where the Mogao Caves is located.
10. Xinjiang: A Hidden Summer Treasure in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 24°C/75°F
Permits Required to Visit Xinjiang: Foreigners can visit most of Xinjiang without a permit. You'll need a Xinjiang Travel Permit to visit remote border areas like Tashkurgan County.
Xinjiang, with its vast deserts and towering mountains, offers a cool summer getaway for adventurous souls.
In the summer months, the weather is perfect for exploring Kanas Lake, one of the most picturesque places in China. For a taste of culture, visit Urumqi to see the Xinjiang Museum and sample delicious Uyghur food, or discover the local nomadic lifestyle in the region's small villages.
Adventurers can hike through the stunning Tian Shan Mountains or visit the Sayram Lake, known for its tranquil beauty.
11. Yangtze River Cruise: Perfect Summer Itinerary with Scenic Resorts in China
How to Plan a Tour: Get 10 steps to plan your Yangtze cruise this summer >>
How to Book a Cruise Ship: Contact Asia Odyssey Travel >>
A Yangtze River Cruise is a perfect summer escape in China, offering a cool, relaxing retreat. In the summer heat, the air-conditioned cabins and cooling drinks make it an ideal way to relax and take in China’s majestic landscapes.
So, what's a Yangtze River Cruise like?
You will sail past towering Three Gorges, enjoy the river’s peaceful flow, and visit historical towns like Fengdu Ghost City. The cruise also provides stops at natural wonders like Shennong Stream and the Qutang Gorge.
Yangzi Explorer and Yangtze Mircle take you to the Shennongjia Scenic Area to escape the summer heat. And Century Legend‘s Chongqing-Shanghai cruise takes you to Mount Lu, another summer resort in China.
12. Xiamen: Enjoy Coastal Charm and Breezy Summer Days in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 28°C/82°F
How to Get There: Check our high-speed train guide for Shenzhen to Xiamen, Shanghai to Xiamen, etc.
With an average summer temperature of 28°C, Xiamen is a perfect blend of history, beach, and delicious food, making it one of the best places to visit in China in summer.
You’ll fall in love with Gulangyu Island, an area with beautiful British-style architecture and cozy beaches. Wander through the Nanputuo Temple, and don’t forget to take a relaxing walk along Zengcuoan Village, famous for its traditional alleyways and unique handicrafts.
What’s special here?
- Take a bike ride along the coast by the Huandao RD, enjoying sea breezes and scenic views.
- Feast on local snacks like peanut soup and fresh seafood.
13. Datong: A Less-visited Summer Destination in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 26°C/79°F
How to Get There: Take a 2-hour high speed train to Datong from Beijing or a 5-hour train from Xian
In the heart of China, Datong is a city that mixes history with natural beauty, offering a cool summer adventure.
The Yungang Grottoes, with over 50,000 Buddhist statues, are a must-see. They provide a glimpse into China’s religious art. The Hanging Monastery, perched dramatically on a cliff, is another incredible site to visit.
You won't believe what comes next! Yingxian Wooden Pagoda, the world's tallest surviving wooden pagoda-style building still standing after a thousand years of wind and rain, is worth seeing.
After the cultural explorations, it's nice to ride a bike on the Datong City Wall!
14. Chengde Mountain Resort: Beijing’s Cool Summer Escape
Avg. Summer Temp: 22°C/72°F
Location: About 240 km northeast of Beijing, about 1 hour by high-speed train
How to Plan a Tour to Chengde: Add it to a classic Beijing tour list
As one of the best places to visit in China during summer, Chengde Mountain Resort offers a cool escape from the city heat. Known as Beijing's backyard, this royal retreat is steeped in history, with stunning gardens and architecture.
Here’s what to expect!
Explore the UNESCO-listed Imperial Palace Complex and the unique Outer Eight Temples, showcasing Tibetan and Xinjiang-style structures. Wander the peaceful Hammer Rock Peak National Forest Park or enjoy cultural performances like Mongolian folk dances.
For the foodies! Don't miss the Imperial-style mung bean cake or Chengde almond tea as you soak in the royal ambiance.
15. Hulunbuir: Have Fun on Inner Mongolia’s Grasslands This Summer in China
Avg. Summer Temp: 20°C/68°F
Highlights: Ride horse, visit Mongolian yurt, go fishing or boating, try Mongolian barbecue, etc.
For a true escape into nature, Hulunbuir Grassland in Inner Mongolia is a peaceful summer retreat. Here, you’ll experience wide open spaces, endless green fields, and the cool breezes of the steppe.
Highlights:
- You can ride horses across the grasslands.
- Stay in a traditional Mongolian yurt for an immersive experience.
- Visit Mordaga Lake for a day of fishing or boating.
- Try Mongolian barbecue and other local delicacies for a truly unique culinary experience.
16. Qingdao: Cool Sea Breezes and Iced Tsingtao Beer in China’s Coastal Gem
Avg. Summer Temp: 25°C/77°F
Highlights: European-style villas, beaches, beer, seafood, etc.
Qingdao is a coastal gem that offers the perfect balance of stunning beaches and vibrant city life, making it one of the best places to visit in China during summer. With its cool sea breeze, you can enjoy the city’s beautiful coastline while escaping the summer heat.
What to Do in Qingdao?
- Stroll along Zhanqiao Pier, which extends into the sea and offers amazing views of the skyline.
- Visit Badaguan Scenic Area for its European-style villas and tree-lined streets.
- Enjoy fresh seafood at Taidong Night Market, where the city’s food scene truly shines.
- For beer lovers, Qingdao is the birthplace of Tsingtao Brewery, and a tour here is a must!
Summer in China Is the Busiest Time of Year for Travel!
Summer in China is buzzing with energy—it’s the busiest travel season! July and August are the summer holidays in China!
Popular spots like the Great Wall and Forbidden City get crowded, so book tickets 30 days in advance and visit during off-peak hours (7am-10am or after 3pm) for a smoother experience.
China Summer Temperatures Range from 30°C to 40°C
Temperatures can soar between 30°C to 40°C, so pack SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, a portable fan, and cooling oil to beat the heat.
For the best places to visit in China in summer, head to highland regions like Tibet, Yunnan, Zhangjiajie, or Qinghai for cooler weather and stunning landscapes. Coastal cities like Xiamen and Qingdao or northern retreats like Chengde Mountain Resort are also perfect escapes!
There's Lots of Rainfall in China’s Summer
Rain is common, especially in the south during June-July typhoon season. Bring a foldable umbrella and waterproof shoe covers to stay dry while enjoying lush, green scenery.
Safety first! Watch out for heatstroke, typhoons, or landslides in mountainous areas. Stay hydrated and check weather updates. Contact Asia Odyssey Travel >>
What to Pack for China in Summer?
Here are the essentials to pack when travelling to China in the summer:
- Light, breathable clothing
- Sun protection gear (hat, sunscreen)
- Portable fan and cooling oil
- Foldable umbrella and waterproof shoes
- Reusable water bottle
Plan Your Perfect China Summer Tour with Asia Odyssey Travel
Summer in China is an adventure waiting to happen, and with Asia Odyssey Travel, your journey will be seamless and rewarding.
Why choose us? We take care of every detail—whether it’s securing tickets to popular attractions, arranging comfortable stays, or providing insightful cultural and historical context at every stop.
Our guided tours ensure personalized attention, and our local expertise guarantees you’ll experience the best places to visit in China during summer without the stress.
So, pack your sunscreen, grab your hat, and let us handle the rest. Your dream summer in China starts here. Contact Asia Odyssey Travel today and let’s make it happen!
Data in submission...
