Beijing Weather

Beijing's Climate Type

Beijing features a classic temperate monsoon climate, with distinct seasonal characteristics. Spring brings dry, windy conditions with gradually warming temperatures. Summers are marked by intense heat, heavy rainfall, and high humidity. Autumn offers crisp, pleasant weather—the golden season for tourism. Winters turn cold and dry, blanketing the city in snow. The annual average temperature ranges between 10-12°C, with precipitation unevenly distributed—over 70% of yearly rainfall concentrates in summer, particularly during July and August when torrential downpours frequently occur.

7-Day Beijing Weather Forecast

Jan 15, Thursday

7°C

Clear sky

Humidity: 32%

Wind: 1.2 m/s

Jan 16
Friday

-2~3°

Jan 17
Saturday

-6~-3°

Jan 18
Sunday

-8~-4°

Jan 19
Monday

-7~-4°

Jan 20
Tuesday

-9~-5°

Average Annual Temperature in Beijing

Beijing experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations. Average highs range from 2°C in winter to 31°C in summer, while lows swing between -9°C and 22°C. This dramatic range means your packing list will need to accommodate everything from heavy down jackets to summer shorts.

Beijing Seasons Climate, Clothing and Travel Tips

Spring (Mar. - May)

Spring in Beijing (March to May) is one of the most pleasant seasons, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C. The mild sunshine makes it ideal for outdoor activities like flower viewing and exploring historical sites. However, sandy winds are common, and the air tends to be dry, so wearing a mask and keeping hydrated is recommended. Though brief cool spells may occur, the overall weather is enjoyable. The cherry and peach blossoms in places like the Summer Palace and Beihai Park create a perfect springtime atmosphere in the ancient capital.

Travel Highlights

• Flower Viewing: Admire the cherry blossoms at Yuyuantan Park and the peach and crabapple blooms at the Summer Palace, as the city transforms into a floral wonderland.
• Historic Sites: Under the bright spring sunshine, iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven showcase their grandeur and timeless elegance.

Best attractions: The Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven, and Yuyuantan Park.

Clothing Recommendation

For Beijing's spring weather, layering is key due to the significant temperature swings between morning and evening. Start with a light sweater or long-sleeved shirt as a base, then add a lightweight jacket or trench coat for easy adjustment throughout the day. Since spring winds can be strong, bringing a hat and sunglasses is also recommended—they'll shield you from the wind and protect your eyes.

Summer (Jun. - Sep.)

Summer in Beijing (June-August) brings hot and humid weather, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C and occasionally reaching over 35°C. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent, adding to the muggy conditions. As peak tourist season, popular sites like the Forbidden City and Great Wall get crowded—early morning visits are recommended. Despite the heat, this season offers unique cultural experiences like Dragon Boat Festival races and Shichahai night markets. Remember to pack sunscreen, rain gear, and stay hydrated while exploring.

Travel Highlights

• Night Exploration: With long summer days and cooler evenings, Beijing's nightscape comes alive—admire the glittering lights of Shichahai or the dazzling light shows at the Bird's Nest and Water Cube.
• Water Activities: Beat the heat at water parks like Chaoyang Park and Qinglonghu Park, perfect for summer fun.

Best attractions: Shichahai, Bird's Nest, Water Cube, and Chaoyang Park.

Clothing Recommendations

Dressing for Beijing's summer focuses on staying cool and sun-safe. Opt for breathable, lightweight clothing like short-sleeve tees, thin shirts, and shorts. Pair them with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for UV protection. Since sudden thunderstorms are common, always pack a compact umbrella or raincoat. This practical combo keeps you comfortable whether exploring under the sun or caught in a summer downpour.

Autumn (Oct. - Nov.)

Autumn in Beijing (September-November) offers the most pleasant weather of the year, with comfortable temperatures (15-25°C), crisp air and excellent visibility. September-October brings clear blue skies, while November paints Xiangshan's maple leaves crimson and Yuanmingyuan's ginkgo trees golden. Though it's peak tourist season, the sunny days are perfect for visiting historic sites like the Forbidden City and Great Wall. Photographers particularly cherish this season for capturing Beijing's most picturesque autumn scenery.

Travel Highlights

• Autumn Foliage: Be captivated by the fiery red maple leaves at Fragrant Hills Park, the golden ginkgo biloba avenue at Diaoyutai, and the colorful foliage at Olympic Forest Park - together creating breathtaking autumn vistas.
• Cultural Events: Autumn brings a rich lineup of cultural activities, including the Palace Museum's special exhibitions and the Beijing International Music Festival.

Best attractions: Fragrant Hills Park, Diaoyutai Ginkgo Avenue, Olympic Forest Park, and the Forbidden City.

Clothing Recommendations

Dress for comfort during Beijing's autumn, but be prepared for significant morning/evening temperature drops. Start with lightweight long-sleeve tops and pants, layer with a thin sweater or cardigan, and top with a trench coat or light jacket for cooler hours. While autumn sun is gentle, mornings and evenings can be crisp - packing a scarf or light hat is recommended for extra warmth when needed.

Winter (Dec. - Feb.)

Winter in Beijing (November to March) brings cold and dry weather, with temperatures typically between -5°C and 5°C, occasionally dropping even lower. While chilly winds can be biting, the clear winter skies and occasional snow create picturesque scenes of the capital. This quiet season offers fewer crowds at major attractions, allowing for peaceful exploration. The crisp air and frost-kissed landscapes reveal Beijing's unique northern charm, though visitors should prepare with proper thermal layers and windproof outerwear.

Travel Highlights

• Ice & Snow Activities: Enjoy skating on Shichahai Lake and Summer Palace's frozen ponds, or hit the slopes at Nanshan and Huaibei ski resorts for thrilling winter sports.
• Traditional Festivals: Experience Beijing's vibrant Spring Festival temple fairs, like the iconic Ditan and Longtan Lake celebrations, bursting with cultural performances and festive treats.

Best attractions: Shichahai Ice Rink, Summer Palace, Nanshan Ski Resort, Ditan Temple Fair

Clothing Recommendations

Dressing for Beijing's freezing winters requires serious warmth: thermal down jackets, wool pants, scarves, insulated hats, gloves, and snow boots are essentials. Since indoor heating keeps buildings toasty, layer with thinner sweaters or long-sleeve shirts under your heavy coat for easy adjustment when moving between indoors and outdoors.