Shanxi weather: best time to visit Shanxi, temperature, what to bring

Overview

Shanxi Province, located in the inland region of the mid-latitudes, experiences a temperate continental monsoon climate. Influenced by solar radiation, monsoon circulation, and geographic factors, Shanxi’s climate is characterized by distinct seasons, synchronized rain and heat, abundant sunlight, significant climate differences between the north and south, sharp temperature contrasts between winter and summer, and large day-to-night temperature variations.

The annual average temperature across Shanxi ranges from 4.2°C to 14.2°C, with a general trend of increasing temperatures from north to south and decreasing from basins to high mountains. Annual precipitation in the province varies between 358 and 621 millimeters, with uneven seasonal distribution. The summer months of June to August see the majority of rainfall, accounting for about 60% of the annual total. Precipitation distribution within the province is also significantly affected by the region's complex topography.

The Best Time and Seasons to Visit Shanxi

The recommended time to visit Shanxi is from April to October, with the best season being from April to June or from September to October. During this period, Shanxi transitions through spring, summer, and autumn, offering moderate and pleasant weather. In spring, Shanxi bursts into life, with flowers blooming all over the mountains, with the beautiful scenes of apricot blossoms and forsythia flowers in full bloom, while in autumn, Shanxi is a sea of golden hues, with slopes covered in red leaves, with the feeling of tranquil and majestic beauty.

Shanxi Weather in Four Seasons

• Spring (March to May)

Spring is the season of blossoms in Shanxi, turning the entire landscape into colors. Peonies, peach blossoms, and apricot flowers bloom in full glory, drawing crowds of visitors to witness their beauty. The pleasant climate during spring, with its moderate temperatures, makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

• Summer (June to August)

In summer, Shanxi experiences higher temperatures, but it is also a season filled with festivals and temple fairs. Visitors can partake in various local fairs and traditional events, getting a taste of the region's unique cultural charm. Shanxi also offers numerous cool mountain areas and scenic streams during the summer for escaping the heat and enjoying the refreshing natural surroundings.

• Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in Shanxi. The province's stunning red foliage reaches its peak during this time, with vibrant maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees creating a breathtaking natural canvas. Autumn is also the season of harvest in Shanxi, where visitors can enjoy juicy peaches and crisp apples.

• Winter (December to February)

Although Shanxi’s winters are cold, they have a unique charm. Many attractions remain open during this season and host special winter festivals and temple fairs. The Hukou Waterfall is particularly awe-inspiring in winter, drawing photography enthusiasts to capture its dramatic beauty. Shanxi's hot springs and resort spas are also perfect destinations for winter travel.

Shanxi Weather by Month/Year Round

If you can freely choose when to travel to Shanxi, 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 Shanxi 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, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from -11°C to 4°C, with highs of 12°C and lows of -20°C. The monthly average precipitation is 3mm, with mostly sunny and some cloudy weather, accompanied by occasional haze and snow. Although the lush greenery is absent during this cold season, January is an excellent time to explore ancient relics and historic towns.

January is the low season for tourism in Shanxi. There are fewer visitors, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful travel experience. However, some tourist facilities may be closed or offer reduced services. Accommodation options are more limited but tend to be cheaper, so it's essential to plan your trip in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in January

In January, Shanxi is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as windproof jackets, down coats, and bring accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to stay warm. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to carry lip balm and moisturizers to prevent dry or cracked skin, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

February: is February a Good Time to Visit?

In February, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from -8°C to 6°C, with highs of 16°C and lows of -17°C. The monthly average precipitation is 5mm, with mostly sunny and cloudy weather, accompanied by overcast as well as occasional haze and snow. With varied and colorful festival, February is also an excellent time to explore ancient relics and historic towns.

February is the low season for tourism in Shanxi. There are fewer visitors, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful travel experience. However, during the Chinese New Year holiday, there is usually an increase in visitor numbers, leading to higher demand for accommodations, so it’s advisable to plan your trip in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in February

In February, Shanxi is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as windproof jackets, down coats, and bring accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to stay warm. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to carry lip balm and moisturizers to prevent dry or cracked skin, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

March: is March a Good Time to Visit?

In March, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 15°C, with highs of 26°C and lows of -12°C. The monthly average precipitation is 12mm, with mostly cloudy and some sunny weather, accompanied by overcast as well as occasional haze and snow. In March, as the weather warms up, many scenic spots in Shanxi host festivals to invite tourists to enjoy the blooming flowers, take spring outings, and experience local customs.

March is also the low season for tourism in Shanxi, but with an increase in travel services and activities and a slight rise in tourist numbers. As a result, accommodation options may be more limited, and prices could be higher than in the colder months. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in March

In March, Shanxi warms up, but it's also essential to wear warm clothing such as windproof jackets, down coats, and bring accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to stay warm. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to carry lip balm and moisturizers to prevent dry or cracked skin, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

April: is April a Good Time to Visit?

In April, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 22°C, with highs of 33°C and lows of -3°C. The monthly average precipitation is 22mm, with cloudy, sunny and some rainy weather, accompanied by overcast and occasional haze. In April, Shanxi comes alive with the renewal of nature, and the mountains are adorned with blooming flowers, especially in late April, a great time to head outdoors, enjoying spring scenery.

April is the high season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. However, more visitors make accommodation options more limited, and prices are relatively higher. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in April

In April, Shanxi's weather is quite comfortable, making it suitable for wearing light outerwear such as long coat or jackets, with comfortable sneakers are ideal for spring outings. Since rainfall begins to increase during this time, it's a good idea to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

May: is May a Good Time to Visit?

In May, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 26°C, with highs of 36°C and lows of 2°C. The monthly average precipitation is 34mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny weather, accompanied by overcast and rain. In May, Shanxi is filled with vibrant spring scenery, with warm and comfortable weather. The various tourist spots are breathtakingly beautiful, making it an ideal time for travel and sightseeing.

May is the peak season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. More visitors make accommodation options more limited, and prices are relatively higher, especially in early May which is during May day holiday. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in May

In May, Shanxi's weather is quite warm, making it suitable for wearing comfortable T-shirt or shirt during the day and light outerwear such as thin coats or jackets at night, with comfortable sneakers are ideal for spring outings. Since rainfall begins to increase during this time, it's a good idea to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with a thermos for hot water.

June: is June a Good Time to Visit?

In June, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 32°C, with highs of 37°C and lows of 9°C. The monthly average precipitation is 55mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny weather, accompanied by overcast and rain. Starting in June, Shanxi enters summer, but the temperatures remain moderate, offering a unique landscape with lush greenery. It's an excellent time to explore the region, allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of Shanxi while avoiding the peak travel season of summer vacations.

June is the high season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. More visitors make accommodation and traffic options more limited, and prices are relatively higher. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in June

In June, Shanxi's weather is warm, making it suitable for wearing comfortable T-shirt or shirt during the day and light outerwear such as thin coats or jackets at night, with comfortable sneakers are ideal for outings. The rainfall will be abundant during this time, it's a good idea to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with mosquito repellent against mosquito and sun cream against UV rays.

July: is July a Good Time to Visit?

In July, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 32°C, with highs of 38°C and lows of 12°C. The monthly average precipitation is 106mm, with rainy, cloudy and sunny weather, accompanied by overcast. In July, as temperatures rise, many tourists leave the cities and head into forests and mountains to experience the beauty and coolness of "Refreshing Shanxi", which offers a perfect escape from the summer heat.

July is the peak season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. In late July, the summer holiday starts, more visitors make accommodation and traffic options more limited, and prices are relatively higher. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in July

In June, Shanxi's weather is hot, making it suitable for wearing breathing T-shirt or shirt, with sunglasses, sunhats, and comfortable sneakers are ideal for outings. The rainfall will be abundant during this time, it's a good idea to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with mosquito repellent against mosquito and sun cream against UV rays.

August: is August a Good Time to Visit?

In August, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C, with highs of 35°C and lows of 11°C. The monthly average precipitation is 100mm, with mostly rainy, cloudy and some sunny weather, accompanied by occasionally overcast. Though it is the Beginning of Autumn, the sun still blazes intensely. In Shanxi, a popular summer retreat, the cool breezes of summer can be explored in the region's refreshing mountain landscapes.

August is the peak season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. During the summer holiday, more visitors make accommodation and traffic options more limited, and prices are relatively higher. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in August

In August, Shanxi's weather is hot, making it suitable for wearing breathing T-shirt or shirt, with sunglasses, sunhats, and comfortable sneakers are ideal for outings. The rainfall will be abundant during this time, it's a good idea to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with mosquito repellent against mosquito and sun cream against UV rays.

September: is September a Good Time to Visit?

In September, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 14°C to 26°C, with highs of 32°C and lows of 3°C. The monthly average precipitation is 59mm, with cloudy, sunny, rainy, and overcast weather. The arrival of September marks the end of the long summer. During this time, autumn gradually deepens, and everything begins to don golden hues, inspiring poeple to explore the unknown.

September is the high season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. Although the summer holiday rush has subsided, the number of tourists remains high, making accommodation and traffic options still limited, and prices remain elevated. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in September

In September, Shanxi is cooler, making it suitable for wearing breathing T-shirt or shirt during the day and light outerwear at night, with sunglasses and sunhats, and comfortable sneakers are ideal for outings. The rainfall begins to decrease, but it's advisable to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with mosquito repellent against mosquito and sun cream against UV rays.

October: is October a Good Time to Visit?

In October, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 18°C, with highs of 28°C and lows of -3°C. The monthly average precipitation is 28mm, with mostly cloudy and sunny weather, accompanied by overcast and occasionally rain. In October, the sun feels warm and serene, with gentle breezes caressing the land. As the summer heat fades and the autumn chill deepens, the land of Shanxi is already bathed in golden hues.

October is the peak season for tourism in Shanxi, with abundant travel services and various activities available. During early October, the National Day holiday, more visitors would travel to Shanxi, making accommodation and traffic options still limited, and prices may increase. It's essential to plan your itinerary and book accommodations in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in October

In October, Shanxi’s weather is cool, making it suitable for wearing comfortable T-shirt or shirt with light outerwear such as coat or jackets, with sunglasses and sunhats, and comfortable sneakers are ideal for outings. The rainfall decreases, but it's also advisable to bring along rain gear like a raincoat or umbrella, with mosquito repellent against mosquito and sun cream against UV rays.

November: is November a Good Time to Visit?

In November, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from -3°C to 11°C, with highs of 25°C and lows of -16°C. The monthly average precipitation is 12mm, with mostly sunny and some cloudy weather, accompanied by overcast and occasionally rain, snow and haze. In November, the weather in Shanxi turns cooler, and with the arrival of early winter, the autumn atmosphere becomes even more pronounced. Golden ginkgo leaves blanket the ancient towns, adding a sense of historical depth and tranquility to Shanxi.

November is the low season for tourism in Shanxi, with travel services and activities reduced. There are fewer visitors, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful travel experience, making more accommodation and traffic options, and prices are cheaper, so it's advisable to plan your trip in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in November

In November, Shanxi’s weather is cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as windproof jackets, down coats, and bring accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to stay warm. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to carry lip balm and moisturizers to prevent dry or cracked skin, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

December: is December a Good Time to Visit?

In December, Shanxi experiences average temperatures ranging from -12°C to 4°C, with highs of 18°C and lows of -23°C. The monthly average precipitation is 3mm, with mostly sunny and some cloudy weather, accompanied by occasionally overcast, snow and haze. In December, the weather in Shanxi becomes quite cold, and the natural scenery may not be as vibrant. However, this makes it an ideal time to visit ancient towns and immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

December is the low season for tourism in Shanxi, with travel services and activities reduced. There are fewer visitors, allowing for a quieter and more peaceful travel experience, making more accommodation and traffic options, and prices are cheaper, so it's advisable to plan your trip in advance.

What to Wear/Bring in December

In December, Shanxi is very cold, so it's essential to wear warm clothing such as windproof jackets, down coats, and bring accessories like gloves, scarves, and hats to stay warm. The weather is quite dry, so it's advisable to carry lip balm and moisturizers to prevent dry or cracked skin, with a thermos for hot water, or a dust goggle and a mask against probably haze.

Customize Your Unique Shanxi Tour

If you are interested in one of the Shanxi 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 Shanxi Tour, please visit our Shanxi Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

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