Lijiang Weather: the Best Time/Seasons to Visit/Travel Lijiang and Surrounding Areas

Why the Lijiang Weather

Lijiang City is located at the junction of the Yungui(Yunnan and Guizhou) Plateau and the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The terrain is higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast, with the highest point being the main peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. It has a plateau mountain monsoon climate in the low latitude warm temperate zone, with relatively low temperatures and large diurnal temperature variations.

The annual average temperature ranges from 12.6°C to 19.8°C. The average temperature in the hottest month ranges from 18.1°C to 25.7°C, while the average temperature in the coldest month ranges from 4°C to 11.7°C. The annual temperature difference is small, but the daily temperature difference is large.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Lijiang

When is the most suitable time to travel to Lijiang?

The answer is the best/most suitable time to visit Lijiang is from March to May and September to November.

In Spring (March to May), the average temperature ranges from 5°C to 17°C. The weather in Lijiang during spring is clear and sunny, the season of blooming flowers, including camellias and rhododendrons. Especially from mid-April to early May, cherry blossoms and peach blossoms flourish, creating picturesque scenery.

In Autumn (September to November), the average temperature ranges from 12°C to 21°C. The weather in Lijiang during autumn is mostly sunny, with crisp and colorful air. The leaves of trees turn golden and vibrant red.

The worst Time to Visit Lijiang

The Busiest Holidays in China

The worst times to travel to Lijiang are during the following three periods: the May Day holiday (May 1st to 5th, 2024), summer vacation (July and August every year), and National Day holiday (October 1st to 7th, 2024). The main reasons are that there are many tourists, travel costs are much higher than usual, and many places require queuing, such as attractions and restaurants. The most unbearable aspect is the long queues for using the restroom, which can be very testing.

The Rainfall Season in Lijiang

The rainfall from June to August is the highest of the year, and during this period, frequent rainfall often affects normal tourism activities. Some outdoor activities, such as hiking Tiger Leaping Gorge, are quite dangerous during the rainy season.

Ljiang Weather in Four Seasons

The average daytime temperature in Lijiang is around 20°C throughout the year, with nighttime temperatures averaging around 7°C. The rainy season in Lijiang is from June to August. It is advisable to bring rain gear during this time, but Lijiang is suitable for travel all year round.

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Lijiang boasts pleasant temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 20°C on average. During this time, the weather is typically clear and sunny.

Spring is the season of flowers in Lijiang, especially from mid-April to early May when cherry blossoms and peach blossoms are in full bloom, creating picturesque scenery. Additionally, Lijiang's spring features various flowers such as camellias and rhododendrons blooming one after another.

Recommended activities: flower appreciation, hiking, cycling tours around Lijiang/Shuhe Ancient Town, participating in ethnic minority festivals such as the Water Splashing Festival.

Summer (June to August)

During the summer, temperatures are relatively high, ranging from 15°C to 25°C on average. June to July is the rainy season in Lijiang, so it's important to be mindful of weather changes and bring rain gear.

In summer, Lijiang is lush with greenery and murmuring streams. It's a great time to admire the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, as the snow on the mountain melts, revealing its beautiful peaks.

Recommended activities: Visiting attractions such as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Lugu Lake, and Tiger Leaping Gorge (not suitable for hiking). Experience the bonfire party of the Naxi ethnic group and participate in the walking marriage ceremony of the Mosuo ethnic group.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn in Lijiang features pleasant temperatures, with averages ranging between 10°C and 20°C. During this time, the weather in Lijiang is mostly sunny and refreshing.

The colors of autumn in Lijiang are vibrant, with the leaves of trees turning golden and red. September to October marks the harvest season in Lijiang, offering a variety of fresh fruits and crops to taste.

Recommended activities include admiring the red leaves, hiking, participating in ethnic minority celebrations of the harvest such as the Autumn Harvest Festival, and visiting historical towns like Shuhe Ancient Town and Lijiang Ancient Town.

Winter (December to February)

During winter, the temperature is relatively low, ranging from 0°C to 10°C on average. During this time, Lijiang's weather is often overcast or snowy, so it's necessary to wear warm clothing.

In winter, Lijiang transforms into a kingdom of silver-wrapped snow, especially places like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the snow scenery is spectacular. Snowy landscapes in places like Shuhe Ancient Town also have their own unique charm.

Recommended activities: Visit scenic spots such as Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Tiger Leaping Gorge to admire the snow scenery. Experience Naxi hot pot and participate in skiing activities with the Mosuo people.

Lijiang Weather by Month/Year Round

If your travel schedule to Lijiang isn't very flexible, then you won't have many choices. However, if your travel time to Lijiang is flexible, it's advisable to choose the appropriate month. In that case, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of traveling to Lijiang each month, which will help you prepare in advance.

January: Is January a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

From a climatic perspective, with low temperatures, and some roads may be closed due to heavy snowfall. it's not considered a good month for tourism.

In January, the average rainfall in Lijiang is only 4.9mm. the average temperature in Lijiang ranges from -1 to 14°C, with a significant difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures with daytime temperatures around 9-16℃, suitable for various outdoor activities. However, nighttime temperatures drop to around -3-3℃, which is quite low, so it's important to dress warmly.

From Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, it's a good month for traveling as there are fewer people and relatively lower prices.

In January, Lijiang sees fewer tourists due to the cold weather, making it an off-peak tourist season. Consequently, hotel and restaurant prices are significantly lower compared to usual. Many attractions don't require queuing, which can reduce travel costs and save travel time.

What to Wear/Bring in January

What to wear and bring

After the Minor Cold solar term in January, the weather begins to turn colder. In Lijiang, there is a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so it's important to stay warm.

During the day(9-16℃), it is recommended to wear warm clothes, thicker outerwear, and warm shoes and socks.

Ninghttime(-3-3℃), add an appropriate amount of clothing, a warm down jacket, scarf, and hat.

For traveling to Lijiang in January, It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, moisturizer,sunscreen,portable oxygen bottle, medication for preventing altitude sickness etc.

February: Is February a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

Temperatures are lower, the areas around Lijiang, such as Lugu Lake, are also affected by the climate, and some roads may be closed due to heavy snowfall. Lijiang in February has an average rainfall of 2.9mm, with an average of 1.3rainy days. Average monthly temperature is -0℃ ~ 14℃.Daytime temperatures range from around 8℃ ~ 17℃, Nighttime temperatures range from -3℃ ~ 2℃, The temperature difference is significant, so be sure to keep warm. The historical lowest temperature is -9℃, and the historical highest temperature is 22℃.

From a Cost Perspective

In February, Lijiang sees fewer tourists compared to other months but more than other cities. The costs are normal, making it a good time to avoid the peak tourist season. However, Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) typically falls in February, and the Lantern Festival on the 15th day of the lunar new year, is one of the most impressive festivals in Lijiang, during which there is an increase in tourist traffic, leading to corresponding increases in travel costs across various aspects.

What to Wear/Bring in February

What to wear

Day time (8℃ ~ 17℃): It is recommended to wear thicker jeans, warm outdoor clothing, jacket, and warm shoes and socks.

Night time(-3℃ ~ 2℃): It is recommended to wear warm and heavy clothing such as cotton clothes, winter coats, leather jackets, thick wool coats, wool hats, gloves, down jackets, and fur-lined coat.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring warm clothing, including coats and trousers, warm shoes and socks, sunglasses, hats, gloves, scarf, portable oxygen bottle,medication for preventing altitude sickness, moisturizer etc.

March: Is March a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

The temperatures gradually warm up, and various flowers begin to bloom.It's the perfect time to enjoy the splendor of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, as the snow has not melted yet, allowing the majestic snowy peaks to gleam.Lijiang in March has an average rainfall of 2.73 mm, with an average of 1.7 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is -0℃ ~ 14℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 15℃ ~ 26℃, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Nighttime temperatures range from 0℃ ~ 13℃.The historical lowest temperature is 0℃, and the historical highest temperature is 26℃.

From a Cost Perspective

In March, Lijiang sees fewer tourists compared to other months but more than other cities. Although March is not the peak tourist season in Lijiang, the climate and scenery during this period are still suitable for travel. The costs are normal, making it a good time to avoid the peak tourist season.

What to Wear/Bring in March

What to wear

Day time (15℃ ~ 26℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time(0℃ ~ 13℃): it is recommended to wear thicker jeans, warm outdoor clothing, jacket, and warm shoes and socks.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring warm clothing, including coats and trousers, warm shoes and socks, sunglasses, hats, medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle, frostbite cream etc.

April: Is April a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In April, it typically doesn’t rain, and the weather is clear ， pleasant and various flowers begin to bloom，making it an excellent time for travel. It's the perfect time to enjoy the splendor of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, as the snow has not melted yet, allowing the majestic snowy peaks to gleam.

In April has an average rainfall of 6.3 mm, with an average of 4.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 7℃ ~21℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 13℃ ~25℃making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Nighttime temperatures range from1℃ ~ 12℃.The historical lowest temperature is -1℃, and the historical highest temperature is 27℃.

From a Cost Perspective

April enters the peak tourist season in Lijiang, the climate and scenery during this period are suitable for travel. The cost of tourism has risen a bit.

What to Wear/Bring in April?

What to wear

Day time (15℃ ~ 26℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (1℃ ~ 12℃): I it is recommended to wear thicker jeans, warm outdoor clothing, jacket, and warm shoes and socks.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, frostbite cream, portable oxygen bottle,medication for preventing altitude sickness, moisturizing creametc etc.

May: Is May a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In May, the climate is pleasant, the scenery is captivating, making it an ideal season for travel. The rainy season has not yet arrived, so there is not much rain, making it suitable for various outdoor activities.

In May has an average rainfall of 15.77mm, with an average of 12 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 11℃ ~22℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 10℃ ~27℃making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Nighttime temperatures range from4℃ ~ 14℃.The historical lowest temperature is 4℃, and the historical highest temperature is 31℃.

From a Cost Perspective

May is the peak tourist season in Lijiang, more tourism due to the May Day Labor Day holiday from May 1st to 5th. An increase in tourist numbers has led to a rise in costs across various aspects.

What to Wear/Bring in May

What to wear

Day time (10℃ ~27℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (4℃ ~ 14℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In June, Lijiang enters the rainy season. Although there is more rain, it is still a great place to escape the summer heat. The temperatures are moderate and not too hot, making it suitable for outdoor activities and adventures.

In June has an average rainfall of 54.57mm, with an average of 22.3 rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 14℃ ~23℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 16℃ ~28℃making it suitable for various outdoor activities. Nighttime temperatures range from11℃ ~ 17℃.The historical lowest temperature is 9℃, and the historical highest temperature is 32℃.

From a Cost Perspective

June is in the rain season, Tourism is in a stable period in Lijiang, with average tourist numbers and the costs are normal level.

What to Wear/Bring in June

What to wear

Day time (14℃ ~23℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (11℃ ~ 17℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream,medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

July: Is July a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In July, is the rain season. Although there is more rain, it is still a great place to escape the summer heat. The temperatures are moderate and not too hot, making it suitable for outdoor activities and adventures.

In July has an average rainfall of 121.47mm, with an average of 23.7rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 11℃ ~22℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 18℃ ~28℃.Nighttime temperatures range from11℃ ~ 18℃.The historical lowest temperature is 10℃, and the historical highest temperature is 29℃.

From a Cost Perspective

July is in the rain season, Lijiang sees an increase in tourists due to summer vacation, although it's not yet the peak tourist season. Travel costs increase during this time.

What to Wear/Bring in July

What to wear

Day time (14℃ ~23℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (16℃ ~ 28℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, raingear,medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

August: Is August a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Temperature Perspective

In August, is the rain season. Although there is more rain, it is still a great place to escape the summer heat. The temperatures are moderate and not too hot, making it suitable for activities.

In August has an average rainfall of 217.23mm, with an average of 26.7rainy days. Average monthly temperature is 14℃ ~23℃. Daytime temperatures range from around 18℃ ~28℃.Nighttime temperatures range from9℃ ~ 16℃.The historical lowest temperature is 9℃, and the historical highest temperature is 29℃.

From a Cost Perspective

August is in the rain season, but Lijiang sees an increase in tourists due to summer vacation, Travel costs increase during this time.

What to Wear/Bring in August

What to wear

Day time (18℃ ~28℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (9℃ ~ 16℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, raingear, medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

September: Is September a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the temperature is suitable, making it a good time for travel, but there are many rainy days, with showers being predominant.

In September, the average rainfall in Lijiang is 181.17mm. with an average of 24.3rainy days There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, with daytime temperatures around 18-25°C, suitable for various outdoor activities, and nighttime temperatures around 7-14°C, cool enough to require warmth.

From Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, September is relatively favorable for travel. The summer vacation has just ended, and students and parents have returned home for school and work. During this time, most travelers are elderly, and the crowds from summer vacation have dissipated. Hotel and related costs have also dropped, and tourist attractions no longer have long queues.

Visiting Lijiang during this time can save some costs and time.

What to Wear/Bring in September

What to wear

Day time (18℃ ~25℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (7-14°C): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, raingear,medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

October: Is October a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the temperature is suitable, making it a good time for travel, but there are many rainy days, with showers being predominant.

In October, the average rainfall in Lijiang is 31.4mm. with an average of 15rainy days There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, with daytime temperatures around 17℃ ~ 25℃, suitable for various outdoor activities, and nighttime temperatures around 4℃ ~ 13℃, cool enough to require warmth.

From Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, In October, its peak season of Lijiang with increased tourist traffic due to the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival This results in longer queues at various attractions, and consequently, there is an increase in travel costs such as accommodation, transportation, and meals.

What to Wear/Bring in October

What to wear

Day time (18℃ ~25℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (7-14°C): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, rain gear, medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the weather is clear and the climate is cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and hiking. There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, so be sure to keep warm.

In November, the average rainfall in Lijiang is 3.5mm. with an average of 1.7rainy days There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, with daytime temperatures around 10℃ ~ 20℃, suitable for various outdoor activities, and nighttime temperatures around -4℃ ~ 5℃.

From Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, In November, This period is the off-season for tourism in Lijiang, with relatively fewer visitors. Because of this, travel costs are lower, allowing tourists to explore various attractions more comfortably.

What to Wear/Bring in November

What to wear

Day time (10℃ ~ 20℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (-3℃ ~ 6℃.): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as suits, padded jackets, trench coats, casual wear, jackets, business suits, and lightweight sweaters.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, sunscreen, moisturizing cream, medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

December: Is December a Good Time to Visit?

From a Climate and Average Perspective

From a climatic perspective, the weather is clear and the climate is cool, with a low probability of rainfall, it is an ideal time for travel. There is a significant temperature difference between day and night, so be sure to keep warm.

In December, the average rainfall in Lijiang is 7.57mm. with an average of 0 rainy days There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, with daytime temperatures around 10℃ ~ 20℃, suitable for various outdoor activities, and nighttime temperatures around -4℃ ~ 5℃.

From Cost Perspective

From a cost perspective, In December, Being the off-season, there are fewer tourists, and costs are more affordable, making it a great opportunity to visit Lijiang.

What to Wear/Bring in November

What to wear

Day time (10℃ ~ 20℃): It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing such as single-layer cotton and linen short suits, T-shirts, lightweight denim shirts and pants, casual wear, and business suits.

Night time (-4℃ ~ 5℃): It is recommended to wear warm clothing such as trench coats, overcoats, padded coats, jackets, sweaters, wool suits, suits, and winter coats.

what to bring

It is recommended to bring sunglasses, hats, moisturizing cream,medication for preventing altitude sickness, portable oxygen bottle etc.

Suggested Travel Length and Itinerary

How many days should I stay in Lijiang?

The answer is 3-6 days

Visiting the classic must-see attractions in Lijiang takes about 2 full days. Adding arrival and departure time, you'll need approximately 3-4 days. If you want to explore nearby places worth visiting, add 1-3 days for Tiger Leaping Gorge, 1-2 days for Shaxi Ancient Town, and 2-3 days for Lugu Lake.

• Day 1: Lijiang: Arrival, Lijiang Old Town
• Day 2: Lijiang Highlights: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (Yak Meadow), Baisha Murals, Shuhe Ancient Town
• Day 3: Lijiang: First Bend on the Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping Gorge Upper Section
• Day 4: Lijiang: Departure

• View more Lijiang itinerary and find the one you like »

Informative Lijiang Travel Information

• Lijiang Travel Guide, Plan a Suitable Trip »
• Lijiang Itinerary, the One that You Will Like »
• Dali Weather, the Best Time to Visit »
• Kunming Weather, the Best Time to Visit »
• Lijiang Weather, the Best Time to Visit »
• Shangri La Weather, the Best Time to Visit »
• Yunnan Weather, the Best Time to Visit »