Exploring Summer in China

Summer in China can be summed up in two words: hot and wet. Consequently, be prepared to sweat and drink plenty of water. It’s quite hot in most places during summer, so the heat and humidity shouldn’t come as a surprise.

The Weather

From mid-May through mid-July, the rainy season kicks in across southern and eastern China. The rains are nicknamed the plum rains (梅雨 meiyu, or “may yoo” in Mandarin) for the season when the fruit ripens. Honestly, during those weeks, it feels as if nothing can grow but mold. However, don’t be discouraged; bringing rain gear will keep you comfortable. Northern China doesn’t experience the same precipitation pattern, making it wise to include cities like Beijing and Xi’an in your itinerary if you’re concerned about getting too wet. After the rains end, you’ll likely seek shade from the scorching sun and enjoy the blue skies that characterize the later part of summer.

There’s an abundance of activities to enjoy during the summer months, alongside vibrant festivals. This season is ideal for touring Tibet as the weather is mild, and most festivals occur in July and August. You can visit beach cities such as Qingdao and Xiamen to bask in the sun, or travel down to Hainan for a luxurious experience on its white sand beaches. If you’re in major cities like Beijing, Chengdu, or Shanghai, these places boast fantastic outdoor venues where you can relax with a refreshing drink.

Summer Activities

Beach: If it’s beach time you’re after, consider these destinations for sand and sun:

• Xiamen: Formerly known as Amoy, this city offers relaxing beaches, a long promenade, delectable seafood restaurants, and a laid-back ambiance.
• Qingdao: Renowned for its beer, Qingdao features popular beaches and plenty of spots to soak up the sun.
• Sanya: Located on Hainan Island in the South China Sea, Sanya is a paradise for beach enthusiasts, featuring top-notch international resorts.

Nature: For nature and mountain landscapes, consider the following destinations:

• Tibet: Enjoys its best weather in summer with many festivals to participate in.
• Jiuzhaigou: A stunning national park in Sichuan Province, known for its pristine landscapes and cultural richness.
• Mount Song & Shaolin Temple: A perfect blend of history and nature awaits at this remarkable destination.
• Four Buddhist Holy Mountains: Attracts thousands of climbers each summer; perhaps challenge yourself to visit all four.
• The Great Wall: An iconic site that, while popular, is a must-see if you’re near Beijing.

Green: If you’re short on time, numerous Chinese cities offer beautiful gardens and green spaces:

• Numerous parks across China
• Suzhou’s world-famous gardens
• West Lake and Moganshan in Hangzhou
• The Giant Panda Breeding Base in Chengdu, home to lush bamboo and adorable pandas.

Shanghai: In Shanghai, try these summer activities:

• Dine al fresco at some of the city’s finest restaurants.
• Explore on foot through vibrant neighborhoods.
• Consider taking a relaxing Huang Pu River cruise to enjoy the scenic Bund with minimal effort.
• A short trip to a nearby water town could also provide a refreshing escape.

Beijing: In Beijing, several activities are ideal for summer enjoyment.

Summer Festivals

• Qingdao International Beer Festival
• Shoton Festival in Tibet

Summer Holidays

Qi Xi, also known as Night of Sevens (Chinese Valentine’s Day), isn’t an official holiday but a customary celebration typically occurring in August.

Chinese kids enjoy their summer break from early July until the end of August.