Xi’an Weather
Xi’an weather is mild with four distinct seasons - a warm but variable spring, a torrid summer, a cool autumn, and a dry and chilly winter. The highest temperature occurs in July, 35 – 40 ℃ (95 – 104 ℉); while the coldest month is January, with the temperature low to -10 – -5 ℃ (14 – 23 ℉). There is a moderate rainfall caused by frequent summer storms and a succession of overcast and rainy days in autumn.
Best Time to Visit Xi’an
Xi’an climate in spring is usually warm and pleasant, and March to May is the best time of a year to pay a visit. Early autumn running through September and October is also a good season for travel.
Xi’an Weather by Month
January
In January, Xi’an is experiencing the chilly weather of winter. January is the coldest month with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F). The air is very dry with an average humidity of 66%. Sometimes it snows a little, but the snow fall is lesser than that of some northern regions. Strong and bitterly cold wind blows, especially in the morning. In January the visibility in Xi’an is very low during the frequent occurrence of haze. The temperature difference between day and night is small.
Depending on the Chinese lunar calendar, the Chinese New Year may fall in late January. During this festivity, you can have a good feast of authentic Chinese culture. Celebrating the grandest festival of the year, and with all the ancient architectures and city walls putting on a coat of snow, Xi’an seems to be more solemn and regains her glory of the time-honored capital of ancient China.
What to Wear
You need to bring warm clothes, hats, mouth-muffles, mufflers, warm gloves, warm stockings and comfortable and warm shoes.
Things to Do
Indoor visits are recommended. You can visit the Terracotta Army Museum, Forest of Stone Steles Museum, Shaanxi History Museum, Xi’an Museum, etc. Please note that Mt. Huashan, although with unique winter landscape in January, may be closed for safety sake if there is a big snowfall. Outside activities like cross-country skiing and skating are also of great joy in January. Do not expect to visit the local ski resorts, which may not be open due to the lack of snow.
Other Tips
You need to drink enough water to prevent dehydration. Bring some facial cream to prevent your skin from being too dry. In case of frostbite, mentholated ointment is needed. Due to the Spring Festival Travel Rush possibly starting from late January, the domestic traffic becomes hectic and it is difficult to get flights and trains tickets at this time. You had better have your itinerary arranged in advance.
February
In February, the temperature in Xi’an begins to rise. The weather is warmer than January, but still very cold with an average temperature of 3C (37℉). It sometimes snows with the temperature dropping below zero. Cloudy weather occurs very often, but there are more sunny days than in January.
The Chinese New Year and Lantern Festival, respectively falling on the 1st and 15th of the first lunar month, may fall in this month, leading you to the grandest carnival of the year. It is a good time to experience Chinese culture especially in the ancient city of Xi’an. You can experience some distinctive traditions and take part in many folk activities, such as eating dumplings and Yuanxiao, pasting spring scrolls, setting firecrackers, and watching lanterns.
What to Wear
hours heating is provided inside buildings; the interior is so warm that you only need to wear two thin clothes. But if you go out, a down coat, gloves, a muffler and a hat are essential to keep warm. To protect your feet from frostbite thick stockings and warm shoes are musts.
Things to Do
You should not miss the festival activities during this time, such as the annual Lantern Fair held on Xi’an City Wall. From one week before the Spring Festival to about one month after, South Gate to Heping Gate section of the City Wall is decorated with bright lanterns displaying the historical and cultural features by hi-tech facilities mixed with sound, light and electricity. The best visiting time is in the evening. With all the lanterns on, you will be amazed at the miniatures of some famous attractions in China and the world. It would be cold and windy on the wall in the evening, so it is advised to wear proper clothes to keep warm.
Other Tips
Because of the winter vacation and the Spring Festival, China is going through the Spring Festival Rush Period this month. At the same time, Xi’an is one of the top choices for foreign tourists to experience Chinese culture during the Chinese New Year. These factors make booking flights and hotels tense. Because of the demand for flights and hotel accommodations during this period, you should make these arrangements ahead of time. Always remember to keep warm in case of catching cold, and bring with you some cold medicine.
March
March is the month when Xi’an steps into the spring season. Generally speaking, the weather is changeable! On sunny days that happen mostly in the month, the temperature climbs up to 14C (57F), and people may wear thin clothes. However, sometimes a small snow in early March or a cold rain appears to bring the city back to winter. Rains may happen, very small and last for just a few hours at a time.
Spring wakes up everything. Trees put forth buds and leaves, grasses sprout, and bright flowers bloom. Warm sunshine, gentle breeze and the vitality everywhere make this month a pleasant time for travel to Xi’an.
What to Wear
Layered clothing will help you to cope with the changeable weather - long sleeve T-shirt for sunny days, thin sweater and coat for rainy days and maybe an overcoat or down jacket in case of snow. Also, you need to be aware of the big temperature difference between day and night and always take appropriate clothes for the cold mornings and nights.
Where to Go
Late March in Xi’an is the best time for enjoying flowers. Qinglong Temple put on a beautiful bright spring clothes made of cherry blossoms, attracting an endless stream of tourists. In the campus of Xi’an Jiaotong University, there is also a sea of cherry blossoms, making the campus a fairyland. Another choice of appreciating flowers is the Xi’an Botanical Garden, where various flowers such as cloves, sweet acanthus, roses, etc. are competing beauty.
Other Tips
Spring is pollen season. If you are allergic to pollen, try not to get to close to the flowers and remember to bring your allergy medication. You might also consider wearing a facemask. With the changing weather it is easy to catch a cold, so it is important to also bring cold medicines.
April
Xi’an weather in April is warm with an average temperature of 15C (59F), with sunny days most of the time. It may rain at times and is wetter than the previous three months.
Spring is in the air with all its signs like gentle breeze, warm sunshine, fresh air, green trees, grasses, flourishing flowers, colorful butterflies, and birds' singing.
The traditional Chinese Qingming Festival, aka the Tomb-Sweeping Day, falls on April 4th or 5th, with a three-day holiday. During this period, sacrificial activities and spring outing are the two main activities for the locals.
What to Wear
In early April, T-shirts with light jackets suffice. However, as it becomes warmer in mid-April, one can just put on a long-sleeved shirt. By late April, it might become rather hot and thus summer clothes are advisable. Temperature varies within a day, so remember to prepare yourself to cope with the changing weather. If you plan to go mountain climbing, get ready warmer clothing for the cooler climate.
Where to Go
April is a great time for a spring outing. You should not miss the Xi’an Botanical Garden, where all kinds of tulips are contending in beauty and fascination. Some mountains and forest parks in the southern suburbs of Xi’an are also popular in April. The South Wutai Mountain which is said to be one of the Buddhist shrines deserves a visit, too. If you love climbing mountains, Mt. Huashan and Cuihua Mountain are considerable destinations.
Other Tips
When planning for a suburban outing, always check ahead the weather forecast and put on proper clothing and shoes. You’d better put on some sun-block cream and wear sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes too. Since drinks on the mountains might not be readily available and expensive, remember to bring along some water. After a day’s hiking in the mountains, it is highly recommended to try some fresh and delicious home-made food in the local farmers’ manors in the pleasant evening breeze.
May
In May, the temperature in Xi’an rises quickly. In this changing time between spring and summer, bright and sunny days are the most common weather condition. Sometimes it becomes as hot as summer with the temperature climbing up to 30℃ (86 ℉ ) , while sometimes the temperature may drop a lot when it rains.
There is a big temperature fluctuation in a day. In the morning and night, it is very cool; during the daytime when the sunshine is strong, it becomes hot. Because of the good weather, millions of tourists from home and abroad choose Xi’an as their destinations for vacation in the pleasant May.
What to Wear
In the cool morning and evening, you’d better put on long-sleeved T-shirt or shirts; summer clothes will do for a sunny day. Bring a thin coat for rainy days. If you intend to climb mountains, thick clothes are to be brought for the coldness on the mountain top.
Things to Do
Try to avoid the May Day Holiday (May 1 to 3) crowd when planning your itinerary. Generally speaking, parks, gardens and suburban mountains in Xi’an are all strongly recommended destinations. Qujiang Pool Park, a popular scenic spot featuring its natural beauty and abundant history, really deserves a visit. Boating, fishing and enjoying tea in this park are very enjoyable. Not far away is the Cool Cave Heritage Park, the first theme park on wedding ceremony and ancient Chinese marriage customs. You will see some lovers taking wedding photos in the park. Other nearby attractions such as Big Wild Goose Pagoda and Tang Paradise are really worth visiting. In Tang Paradise, a lot of performances showing the civilization of the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907) will be played. What you can not miss is the splendid water film at night.
Other Tips
It is still a month when allergies occur very often. If you are hypo-allergenic, you had better wear a mask outside and wash your hands and noses carefully when you come back. When you go outside, put on some sun-blocking cream and wear sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the strong ultraviolet. Do not forget to bring an umbrella for the sunshine and rain.
June
June is the official beginning of the summer months in Xi’an. The temperature is on the rise.
The weather is hot with an average temperature of 25 ℃ (77 ℉ ) and most days are sunny. The high temperature of some days may shoot up to 37℃ (99 ℉ ).
Although June is considered a dry month, the occasional rainy days will cool down the temperature to some extent. Nights in June are generally cool. Enjoy the comfortable sleep before entering to the sweltering July.
What to Wear
Generally speaking, summer clothes such as T-shirts, skirts, shorts, etc. are recommended. It is advised to pack a couple of long-sleeved garments for rainy days.
Things to Do
June in general is a good month for travel to Xi’an. In the morning, when the sunlight is not strong and the temperature is not very high, you can take a walk on the City Wall, or join the folk activities held near the wall. Then you can visit some nearby attractions, such as Bell Tower and Drum Tower, which are two typical traditional buildings with great historical value. Great Mosque to the northwest of the Drum Tower is a must, not only for its centuries-old history but also for its particular design of mixed architecture. In the evening, Moslem Quarter behind the Drum Tower is where you can not miss. There are all kinds of snacks, such as shashliks, casseroles, various noodles, syrup of plum and so on. The Dragon Boat Festival (May 5th of lunar calendar) usually falls in this month; you should not miss the delicious festival food – Zongzi.
Other Tips
Use lip balm, drink plenty of water and eat fruit to keep hydrated. Try to avoid the midday heat and don’t stay in the sunshine for too long in case of heatstroke. Bring a parasol and wear sunscreen. When visiting Moslem Street, do not indulge in snacks too much or you might suffer from the discomforts of a heavy digestion. Don‘t risk catching a cold by putting the air conditioning temperature too low, especially at night.
July
Xi’an is one of the 'stove cities' in China with a hot summer. Late July marks the hottest period in Xi’an, bearing consecutive days with the high temperature above 35 ℃ (95 ℉). Xi’an steps into the rainy season from July, when the rain is heavier than that of the previous months. When it rains, the hot weather is cooled down a little, while after each period of rain the temperature usually climbs up to a new high. It is comparatively wet with an average humidity of about 71 %.
In China, summer vacation usually starts this month. Many students love visiting Xi’an at this time.
What to Wear
You just need summer clothes in this month. When the air-conditioning system is very strong, you had better put on long-sleeved T-shirt in case of catching cold.
Where to Go
You can make some outdoor visits in the morning, when the temperature is relatively low. Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a well-preserved ancient building and a holy place for Buddhists, is a valuable spot. You can enjoy the performances of Tai Chi Sword and Tai Chi Kung Fu Fan performance there or join the locals doing morning exercises on the south square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda. At noon and in the afternoon, indoor attractions with air conditioners, such as the Shaanxi History Museum near the pagoda, are good choices. In the evening, the musical fountain show on the north square of Big Wild Goose Pagoda is a must-see.
Other Tips
Take along with you some heatstroke medicine whenever you go. Drink enough cool water; do not drink icy water immediately when you come back from the heat outside. It is not good for your health to have the air conditioning on all night with low temperature.
August
Although August marks the beginning of autumn in solar terms according to Chinese lunar calendar, the weather is still very hot in Xi’an. There is a period called "Autumn Tiger" in early August, when it is very hot and sweltering. In an extreme heat wave, you will really feel like being in a “stove”. August is still considered to be in the rainy season. Heavy rains cool down the atmosphere, but are shorter than those in July.
Despite the hot weather, August is a peak traveling month. Many students who are on their summer vacations visit Xi’an at this time.
What to Wear
Generally speaking, thin, cool and breathable clothing is needed to cope with the heat. A hat and sunglasses will protect you from the strong sunshine and ultraviolet. You need to bring a long-sleeved shirt to cope with the coolness brought about by rains.
Where to Go
Attractions where you can get away from the heat are highly recommended. One choice is the Cuihua Mountain, which is dotted with unusual rocks, spectacular caves and unique lakes. Walking in the mountain, you will feel cool and refreshed. The waterfalls are its highlights, which you shouldn’t miss. Another good choice is the Zhuque National Forest Park. Its main attractions are green mountains and clean waters.
Other Tips
Eat more fruits and foods that can relieve heat, such as watermelons, green bean porridge, cucumbers, balsam pears, etc. Some attractions may be crowded during this time, so try to avoid the peak period. Avoid exposure to the sun for long periods, and make sure that some sunburn/heatstroke medicine is available whenever you go. When climbing mountains, drink plenty of water and take measures to prevent dehydration.
September
September marks the beginning of the pleasant autumn in Xi’an, when the weather becomes cooler and cooler. In early September, it is still warm with the highest temperature at about 25°C (77°F); in middle and late September, it is cool. On sunny days, the weather bright and clear, and the wind is gentle and comfortable. Xi’an remains in its rainy season with an average of 10 rainy days in September. A temperature drop always comes along with an autumn rain.
September is a pleasant month to visit Xi’an, because of not only the good weather, but also rich chances to experience Chinese culture. Firstly, Mid-Autumn Day commonly falls in this month; secondly, visitors can take part in the Lintong Pomegranate Festival from Sep.10th to 20th and taste delicious pomegranates.
What to Wear
You are recommended to bring summer clothes for early September and long-sleeved T-shirt, shirts and thin coats for cool and rainy days. Wet weather wear is essential in this month.
Things to Do
It is the best time of a year to climb Mt. Huashan, a famous and popular destination near Xi’an. Tourists mostly choose to climb at night so that they can reach the mountain top in the morning to catch the sunrise. You should take gloves, a raincoat, a walking stick, necessary medicines, a flashlight and enough clothes with you. If you forget to bring clothes, rental service of overcoat for CNY30 – 50 per person is available on the mountain. Bring some small snacks with you in case of hunger. Don't drink too much during your climb as there are only a few toilets on the mountain. Mountains in the southern suburbs of Xi’an are also good choices in September.
October
Xi’an weather in early October is cool and clear, and the wind is very gentle and comfortable; from middle October, the weather is becoming cold; in late October, it can be even chilly. This month experiences a fair amount of precipitation.
It is the golden autumn month with blue sky and white clouds. Birds are flying from the north to the south. The leaves are yellow. Some are hanging on the trees, some are on the ground, and some are dancing in the wind like butterflies. Take a deep breath, and you may feel relaxed! The National Day holiday from Oct. 1st to 7th is the so-called Golden Week and the peak travel period in China, when many tourists rush into Xi’an.
What to Wear
Long-sleeve shirts, thin coats and thick coats are all needed for the changeable weather in October. Please prepare rain wear. Always remember to bring spare clothes when you are out in case of temperature change.
Things to Do
Transportation, hotels and attractions become very busy in Xi’an during the golden week, you had better avoid traveling in this period. Places for enjoying beautiful fall color are strongly recommended, such as Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Its biggest seasonal feature is the yellow ginkgo trees on the square beside the pagoda, forming a golden fairyland. You can also go hiking in the mountains, such as Huashan Mountain, Cuihua Mountain and Mount Li, where you will be amazed by the splendid autumn mountain scenery.
Other Tips
It becomes very dry in this month, so you should drink enough water and eat more fruits. Use lipstick to keep lips moist. Do not forget to bring the camera with you and shoot the wonderful autumn scenes of Xi’an. Wear comfortable shoes when climbing mountains.
November
November is the month when Xi’an enters the cold winter and dry season. In late November, the city may experience its first snow, which is not big. Cloudy and windy weather is the majority. It snows and rains slightly and occasionally.
The temperature difference between day and night is very big. The average temperature of daytime is 11°C (51°F), while the temperature of the night drops to 2°C (35°F).
From this month, Xi’an comes into the traditional low season for tourism. Hotels and airlines always offer good discounts.
What to Wear
It is advised to bring sweaters and thick coats with you to cope with coldness. Remember to add clothes in the morning and evening. Warm shoes and gloves are prerequisites to keep warm. Because of the cloudy weather, the air pollution is very serious, so put on a mask outside if you need.
Where to Go
If you are a sports lover, you can not miss the Xi’an City Wall Marathon, a fixture since 1993. It is held annually on the ancient city wall in early November. Thousands of athletes from many countries, different provinces of China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan attend this sports event. The route is 5 kilometers long. Prepare well and enjoy the competition! If you fear coldness, indoor attractions such as the Forest of Stone Steles Museum and Hanguang Entrance Remains Museum are recommended, where you can appreciate valuable relics.
Other Tips
Drink enough water. Eat some fruits to boost immunity. Skin care is needed to protect your skin from the coldness and dryness. It is a time when it is easy to catch a cold, so remember to bring some medicine.
December
Xi’an weather in December is freezing. The temperature change between daytime and nighttime is big. The daytime temperature is about 6°C (42°F), and nighttime temperature may drop to -3 °C (27°F).
The precipitation is very little, ranking as the driest month of the year. It snows occasionally and slightly. The indoor sites are always supplied with heating.
Cloudy days are in the majority, thus the air quality is poor, especially in the morning.
What to Wear
A down jacket, sweater, thick stockings and boots are needed to cope with the outside coldness. A mouth-muffler is essential to guard against serious air pollution. Inside you can just wear a thin sweater or a thick long-sleeve T-shirt. Add more clothing in good time when the temperature drops to avoid catching cold.
Where to Go
Skiing and skating are seasonal activities for December. Cuihua Mountain Ski Resorts and White Deer Plain Ski Resort are two famous and popular ski resorts in Xi’an. In addition, it is pleasant to soak in a hot spring in winter. The most well-known hot spring of Xi’an is the Tangyu Hotspring in Lantian County in the southern suburb of the city. You can also go to indoor attractions, such as Xi’an Museum, Shaanxi History Museum, and Hanguang Entrance Remains Museum.
Other Tips
Use skin care to protect your skin from being damaged by the windy cold and dry weather. It is suggested you drink enough water and eat plenty of fruit and vegetables. Cold medicine should be prepared.
Averages for Xi’an Weather
Climate - Seasons & Travel Advice
Xi’an, located roughly in the geographical center of Mainland of China, has a continental monsoon climate with four distinctive seasons. It is hot and wet in summer, dry and occasionally snowy in winter, and prone to extended spells of rain in autumn.
Spring (Mar. - May)
Temperatures in spring is subject to fluctuation. The average temperature in March is 8 C (46 F), rising to 14 C (57 F) in April and 19 C (66 F) in May. A sweater or a thick coat is recommended in early spring in March, and a long-sleeved shirt or a T-shirt with a light jacket will do in April. By late spring in May, you can bring your summer clothes. Gentle breeze and warm sunshine make spring a good time for outdoor activities like climbing the Mt. Huashan or enjoying the cherry blossom at the Qinglong Temple.
Summer (Jun. - Aug.)
Summer from June to August is hot and a little moister than spring. Xi’an is one of the major 'stove cities' in China, with July as its hottest month of the year. The heat is oppressive but is tempered somewhat by an average of 10 rainy days each month. Indoor attractions like the Terracotta Army Museum or Shaanxi History Museum are good choices in this season.
Autumn (Sep. - Nov.)
The city experiences a fair amount of precipitation during September and October. The weather is generally overcast and cool. A long-sleeved shirt or a sweater and light coat are appropriate. The City Wall Marathon, a fixture since 1993, is held annually in early November.
Winter (Dec. - Feb.)
Winter weather in Xi’an lasts from mid-November to February the next year. It is dry and cold with a little snow. The coldest time is January with an average temperature of 0 C (32 F), and the lowest temperature sometimes drops below -5 C (23 F). Remember to bring warm clothing and drink enough water to prevent dehydration. A major winter highlight is the annual lantern fair held on the City Wall during the Chinese New Year in January or February.
