Visiting China? Timing is everything

Visiting China is an experience of a lifetime and China tours can be the best way to really get to know this vast country with its unique culture. But when to go? Vast is the important word here; China benefits from an equally vast range of climatic conditions, from alpine cold to tropical monsoon. Choosing the right time for a trip to China depends on two main factors: the type of weather you are comfortable with and what you wish to see.

Seasonal variations

Autumn: With average temperatures ranging between 10 – 23C and a moderate amount of rainfall, the September/October period is considered the most comfortable time of year to visit.

Spring: With similar temperatures to autumn, the spring offers the chance to see China as it begins to bloom. Weather can be unpredictable though, so plenty of layers are advised.

Summer: If you like it hot (and wet) then summer is the season to visit China. In some mainland cities (Wuhan Tianjin amongst others), temperatures soar to as high as 40C. The climate in many parts of China, particularly those featured in many China tours, is continental monsoon; so bring a light waterproof top and an umbrella!

Winter: Typically, the Chinese winter is cold and dry; the average temperature in Beijing falling to 0 degrees C. However, icy blasts are regular features so prepare for sub-zero conditions especially at night. Further south, in more tropical regions, temperatures remain on average around 20C in January and February, making China one of the few countries where you can enjoy tropical sandy beaches and festivals such as the Harbin Winter Ice Festival in one trip!

High season versus low season?

The high or low season question is one that is relevant to any holiday. In China, high season falls mainly during the summer holidays – June to September, with peaks at the beginning of May and again in autumn around the seven day National Day holiday at the beginning of October. Accommodation is harder to come by at these times and prices for just about everything will also be much higher. An organised tour is the best option, in terms of value, during the high seasons. The main advantages to low season travel are the lower costs and also the fact that attractions will be less crowded. This can be a significant factor if you plan to tour China's wealth of historic and ancient sites and prefer to experience them in relative calm!