Lanzhou Weather: the Best Time & Seasons to Visit or Travel

Overview

Lanzhou has a temperate semi-arid climate characterized by abundant sunshine and ample solar energy. It experiences significant climate variations, limited precipitation with regional disparities, and frequent extreme weather, with droughts being particularly severe. The climate features coincide with the rainy and warm seasons, distinct four seasons, mild summers, and relatively moderate winters. The annual average temperature is 10.9°C, and the sunshine duration is 2,374 hours, with a frost-free period lasting 172 days. Annual average precipitation is around 300 mm, primarily concentrated between July and September.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Lanzhou

The best time to visit Lanzhou is from April to October, in which April, September and October is the most recommended. In spring and autumn, the weather in Lanzhou is pleasant, the sceneries are wonderful, and there are not so many visitors, while though in summer the weather is not so hot, the case of more tourists may impact your travel plans.

Lanzhou Weather in Four Seasons

Spring (March to May)

As spring arrives, everything comes back to life, and the air in Lanzhou is filled with vibrant vitality. After a spring rain, Lanzhou transforms into a world of flowers. The snow on Wuquan Mountain gradually melts, and the sound of babbling streams fills the air, as if singing a hymn to spring. Magnolias, peaches, and forsythias, along with other flowers, take turns blooming, painting the landscape with vivid colors that delight the heart and soothe the soul.

Summer (June to August)

With lush greenery and romantic wildflowers, Lanzhou in summer is brimming with poetic charm. In Lanzhou, where temperatures hover above 20°C, a refreshing and cool summer beckons. Even under the blazing sun, a stroll beneath the shade of trees or a gentle breeze brings a soothing relief from the scorching heat, leaving no trace of stuffiness. Sitting under the shade by the Yellow River, the cool winds sweeping along the riverbanks and the splashing waves are unique memories of Lanzhou's summer days.

Autumn (September to November)

As autumn arrives, golden leaves blanket the streets, transforming Lanzhou into a true "Golden City". The air is filled with the essence of harvest, with fruits dotting the fields like precious pearls, tempting passersby to take a taste. The Yellow River takes on a more tranquil and profound demeanor, while the trees along its banks don their autumn attire. Shades of gold, fiery red, and deep green intertwine adorning the riverbanks.

Winter (December to February)

In winter, Lanzhou transforms into a serene and dreamy picture, draped in a blanket of snow resembling a fairyland. The sky is vividly blue to captivate the soul, while the lazy winter sun bathes the city in a bright glow. A stroll through Yantan Park reveals a frozen lake, evoking the feeling of stepping into a silver-white wonderland. Snowflakes dance gently in the air, and the crisp crunch of footsteps on the snow sparks endless imagination.

Lanzhou Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Lanzhou, it is recommended to select the most suitable month based on your interests and preferences. If you don't have the flexibility to choose, it is advisable to understand the advantages and disadvantages of traveling to Lanzhou in each month. According to them, you can be better prepared in advance.

View your month: January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December

January: is January a Good Time to Visit?

In January, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from -12°C to 4°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 2mm. The weather is mostly sunny, cloudy, and some of overcast, with occasional snow and haze. In January, Lanzhou's mountains stand majestically, with sparse vegetation solemn and austere, as if draped in gray-black silk from a distance. Should snow fall, the snowflakes fly in the sky, with glistening frost covering everywhere.

January is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. However, apart from some winter activities, some tourism services and activities in Lanzhou are not complete during this time. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in January

In January, Lanzhou is extremely cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats or down jackets, with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from -9°C to 6°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 2mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and sunny, with some of snow, overcast and occasional haze. In February, Lanzhou remains gripped by the lingering chill of early spring, with biting winds adding to the somber, tranquil atmosphere. The majestic mountains to the north and south stand rugged and timeworn, while the vegetation, having endured a long winter of dormancy, struggles to reveal hints of green.

February is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. However, apart from winter activities and Spring Festival activities, some tourism services and activities in Lanzhou are not complete, while the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival is also worth visiting. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in February

In February, Lanzhou is also cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats or down jackets, along with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 17°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 8mm. The weather is mostly cloudy, some of sunny and overcast, with occasional rain, haze and snow. In the warm, blossoming days of March, Lanzhou is alive with vibrant colors and the fragrance of spring. Flowers bloom abundantly, their branches intertwined, radiating brilliance under the golden sunlight. A gentle floral scent drifts on the spring breeze, refreshing the soul.

March is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are fewer visitors, giving travelers more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. And with the arrival of spring, tourism services and activities in Lanzhou have begun to increase, and the lively Dragon Heads-raising Day on the second day of the second lunar month also adds to the festive atmosphere.

What to Wear/Bring in March

In March, Lanzhou is cool yet warm up, so it's advisable to wear warm clothing, such as cotton-padded coats or down jackets. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

In April, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 20°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 17mm. The weather is mostly cloudy, some of sunny, rainy and overcast, with occasional haze and seldom snow. A gentle breeze brushes by as spring deepens, casting dappled shadows and wafting subtle floral fragrances. At Shichuan Pear Orchard, pear blossoms bloom in profusion, their pristine white petals spreading in serene splendor, untouched by the dust of the world. Along the Yellow River Line, early spring flowers sway in the wind, adorning Lanzhou with vibrant hues.

April is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, though the amount of visitors increase it is moderate, giving traveler convenient accommodation and transportation at relatively modest costs. And during the spring, tourism services and activities in Lanzhou are basically fully open, most of attractions provide convenience for spring outings, so it is more free and flexible for your trip planning.

What to Wear/Bring in April

In April, Lanzhou is warm up, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as coats and jackets and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

In May, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 26°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 37mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and some of sunny, rainy and overcast. The sunlight of May is gentle and soothing. Under its warm embrace, Lanzhou reveals a tranquil sky, soft breezes, and flourishing greenery, with flowers exuding their delicate fragrance. The Yellow River, no longer crystal clear, dons its classic yellow hue, flowing steadily and gently. Along the Yellow River Line, verdant willows sway gracefully, and floral shadows dance.

May is the high season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternatives in accommodation and transportation at higher costs especially in the May Day Holiday. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant. Therefore, careful planning or off-peak tour is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in May

In May, Lanzhou is warm, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as jackets, sportswear and sweatshirt and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for warm water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall increase, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 30°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 41mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and some of sunny, rainy and overcast. Only in summer can one truly experience the gentleness and romance of nature. In June, Lanzhou thrives with lush greenery, towering trees, and abundant foliage exuding vibrant vitality. Wandering through its unique landscapes and immersing oneself in its stunning mountains and rivers reveals the boundless charm that Lanzhou effortlessly radiates.

June is the high season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternatives in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in June

In June, Lanzhou is hot yet pleasant, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as light shirts and thin jackets and pay attention to the cool night. The weather is dry, so bringing moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise with a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall increase, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 31°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 61mm. The weather is mostly sunny or rainy with cloudy and some overcast days. Lanzhou’s summer, even under the blazing sun, offers a refreshing coolness as long as you walk under the shade of trees or feel a gentle breeze, sweeping away the scorching heat without any trace of stuffiness, giving the city an innate advantage as a summer retreat.

July is the most peak season for tourism in Lanzhou for the arrival of the summer holiday, so there are more visitors, giving less alternatives in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in July

In July, Lanzhou is hot, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing, such as light shirts and thin T-shirts. The weather is dry, so bringing moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, with a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 78mm. The weather is sunny, rainy or cloudy, with some overcast days. In late August, Lanzhou welcomes early autumn. The sweltering heat quietly retreats, replaced by a refreshing autumn breeze. The mighty Yellow River flows steadily through the city, its currents unwavering and grand. As the sun sets, the golden hues of the evening light spill over the river's surface, creating shimmering ripples, like a poetic landscape painting of mountains and rivers.

August is the peak season for tourism in Lanzhou because of the summer holiday, so there are more visitors, giving traveler less alternatives in accommodation and transportation at higher costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, but the erratic rainfall may impact your itinerary. Therefore, careful planning or off-peak travel is useful for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in August

In August, Lanzhou is hot, so it's advisable to wear breathable clothing, such as light shirts and thin T-shirts. The weather is dry, so bringing moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, with a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

In September, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 25°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 45mm. The weather is sunny, cloudy and overcast, with some rainy days. In Lanzhou, the northern and southern mountains stand tall, with the Yellow River winding through the city from east to west for over a hundred miles. The mountains are cloaked in lush greenery, vibrant and verdant. In autumn, Lanzhou boasts blue skies, white clouds, and picturesque scenery, with a pleasant climate to match. Strolling along the banks of the Yellow River, marvel at the amazing ever-changing autumn landscape.

Though September is the peak season for tourism in Lanzhou, there are fewer visitors than August, yet the accommodation and transportation remain a high level, leading to continuous high tourism costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, that it is more free and flexible for your trip planning. Therefore, if you are not concerned about the high cost of travel, you will enjoy a pleasant journey.

What to Wear/Bring in September

In September, Lanzhou is pleasant, so it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing, such as sportswear and jackets and pay attention to the cool night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, with a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In October, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 18°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 24mm. The weather is mostly cloudy and sunny with some rainy and overcast days. In October, Lanzhou adorns itself with a colorful suit, evoking endless imagination and reflection. Emerald green, soft yellow, apricot orange, and fiery red compete in a dazzling display of color. Fallen leaves scatter the ground, blending with the shimmering reflections of lakes. Walking along forest paths, the fallen leaves crunch underfoot.

October is the last high season for tourism in Lanzhou during the National Day Holiday, there are more visitors, giving travelers less alternative in accommodation and transportation, leading to high tourism costs. During this time, tourism services and activities are abundant, so even if you're not traveling during the holidays, you can still enjoy high-quality services. Therefore, careful planning or off-peak travel is useful for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in October

In October, Lanzhou is much cool, so it's advisable to wear warm clothing, such as coats and windbreaker and pay attention to the cold night. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, with a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray. The rainfall is erratic, so it's a good idea to bring along a raincoat or umbrella.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from -3°C to 12°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 4mm. The weather is mostly sunny or cloudy, and some of overcast, with occasionally rainy and snowy days. By early November, the autumn atmosphere in Lanzhou deepens as it gradually transitions into late fall, with the chill in the air growing sharper by the day. At Xinglong Mountain, the forest is ablaze with vibrant hues, drawing a dreamlike picture. The ginkgo lining the streets resemble scattered gold, drifting gently onto shoulders like gifts from autumn.

November is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are fewer visitors, giving traveler more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. During this time, tourism options and activities decrease and the services become uncomplete. Therefore, careful planning is essential for a more enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in November

In November, Lanzhou is cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as woollen coats and down jackets. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication and climbing boots with you to the highlands, and sunscreen and sunglasses can help prevent and UV ray.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, Lanzhou experiences average temperatures ranging from -12°C to 5°C, with a monthly average precipitation of 1mm. The weather is mostly cloudy or sunny and some of overcast, with occasionally snow and haze. The biting cold wind and sudden drop in temperature bring a tangible sense of winter's arrival. The waters of the Yellow River gradually take on a clear, emerald hue, and with the backdrop of freshly fallen snow in winter, they appear even more soft and enchanting.

December is the low season for tourism in Lanzhou, so there are fewer visitors, giving traveler more flexibility in accommodation and transportation at lower costs. During this time, apart from some winter activities, some tourism services and activities in Gansu are not complete. Therefore, careful planning is essential for an enjoyable trip.

What to Wear/Bring in December

In December, Lanzhou is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing, such as cotton-padded coats and down jackets, with gloves and hats. When participating in snow activities, snow boots are recommended, and sunglasses can help prevent snow blindness and UV ray. The weather is dry, so bringing lip balm and moisturizer to prevent skin chapping is wise, as well as a thermos for hot water and a mask against possible sand haze. Also take anti-altitude sickness medication, sunscreen and climbing boots with you to the highlands.

Customize Your Unique Jincheng Lanzhou Trip

If you are interested in one of the Dunhuang itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Lanzhou Tour, please visit our Lanzhou Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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