China’s Weather in May
If you visit China in May, you can depend on warm, balmy temperatures with low heat and humidity levels. During the spring, the beautiful Chinese countryside boasts lush, green fields and blooming flowers. Clear blue skies greet you in the major cities (a rare occurrence in this country), making it a pleasant time to travel.
Northern China and Beijing experience dry conditions in May with comfortably mild temperatures. However, Central and Southern China can be damp yet still warm. Therefore, it’s advisable to pack a raincoat and layers no matter which area you plan to visit. Since May typically experiences weather inconsistencies, being prepared is essential.
China is a vast country with varying weather conditions depending on your travel destination. Central and Southern China—regions that attract high tourism—tend to be damp year-round and can be hot and humid in summer. Fortunately, May offers a reprieve from these conditions, making it an excellent time to explore. In cities like Xi’an and Shanghai, temperatures range from 67°F to 74°F with typically fewer than 15 rainy days. Meanwhile, Northern China enjoys dry weather with comfortable 80°F temperatures. The further north you venture, the cooler it becomes, with cities like Harbin around 70°F. Southern China, though, like the Guangzhou region, can be wet. With an average of 85°F in May, the temperature remains comfortable. Areas such as Tibet and Northern Gansu will also see an influx of tourists this month as trekking conditions warm up properly. Consequently, crowds should be sparse since the travel season doesn’t typically kick off until summer.
What to Pack
When preparing for your trip, unless you’re visiting high altitudes, leave winter gear at home, but don’t forget to pack a few light layers. During the daytime in the northwestern region, shorts and lightweight shirts will suffice. However, for cooler evenings, a jacket and light pants are recommended. If your journey takes you to central China, a waterproof, uninsulated rain jacket, as well as water-resistant shoes or lightweight hiking boots, will be essential. It’s advisable to carry a long-sleeved shirt to counter indoor air conditioning chill. In the southern regions, moisture-wicking clothing is optimal, as daytime temperatures can be quite sticky. A thin pair of travel pants along with a windbreaker should get you through the cooler evenings.
May Events in China
Mid-April through mid-May is when the peonies bloom in central China, attracting flower enthusiasts globally. The Luoyang Peony Festival, held during this period, offers opportunities to view numerous gardens and parks. Notably, the Luoyang National Peony Garden spans over 47 hectares and features around 500,000 peonies in nine colors.
- The Huangyaguan Great Wall Marathon takes place on China’s Great Wall, combining the thrill of an event with stunning views of this cultural icon. Covering 42.2 kilometers, including 3,700 steps, this challenging race traverses the wall and surrounding countryside.
- The Midi Music Festival—China’s largest rock festival—is held in early May in Beijing and features performances by over 50 underground rock artists from around the world. Hosted by the Beijing Midi School of Music, the festival also takes place in different Chinese cities with varied line-ups.
Travel Tips
Traveling to China in May allows you to avoid the peak tourist season and the heat of summer, which can detract from your experience. However, keep in mind that rainy conditions are likely across most parts of the country, with the exception of the north and far west. Additionally, the Chinese Labor Day, also known as May Day, results in a three-day weekend for locals. Consequently, expect larger crowds at popular tourist spots and allocate extra time for travel due to holiday traffic.
