Lijiang's combination of high altitude (2,400 meters / 7,874 feet) and low latitude results in a climate that is characterized by relativelycooler summers and milder winters.
Moderate rains in the monsoon-influenced summer "wet season" give way to relatively clear weather throughout the rest of the year —an 8-month "dry season".
的temperature swing is greater on a daily basisthan it is on a season-to-season basis, meaning that layered clothing — at least the use of warm outer clothing in the mornings and evenings — is recommended.
But like all highland areas that are bordered by mountains, the weather can change several times a day. In fact, there is an apt saying in the north of Yunnan Province that captures this highland weather phenomenon: "in the north ofYunnan Province,you can experience all four seasons in a single day!"
Best Times to Visit Lijiang
的best times to visit Lijiang are从3月下旬到5月和10月中旬到11月— you will see a sunny, flowery and enchanting Lijiang. Have a look at ourLijiang Toursand choose your time of travel.
If you have a holiday in winter, you should consider Lijiang. Lijiang isone of the most popular tourist destinations in winter. Its mild temperatures, dryness, sun, and tempting scenery will brighten the cold winter.
Lijiang's rainy seasonbegins in May and ends in October, with the heaviest and most recurrent rainfall periods (some locals would swear that they can set their clocks by it) occurring during July and August, meaning that this is hardly the ideal time of year to visit the Lijiang area.
Lijiang Average Temperature by Month
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High (ºC) | 17 | 19 | 23 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 24 | 22 | 19 | 17 |
| 低(ºC) | 4 | 7 | 10 | 12 | 17 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 17 | 13 | 9 | 5 |
| Rain (mm) | 5 | 2 | 12 | 38 | 96 | 182 | 208 | 177 | 152 | 76 | 17 | 5 |
| High (ºF) | 61 | 66 | 73 | 79 | 80 | 78 | 82 | 83 | 75 | 71 | 65 | 61 |
| Low (ºF) | 39 | 43 | 49 | 53 | 61 | 62 | 65 | 64 | 61 | 55 | 47 | 40 |
| Rain (in) | 0.2 | 0.1 | 0.5 | 1.5 | 3.8 | 7.2 | 8.2 | 7 | 6 | 3 | 0.7 | 0.2 |
Spring — Clear and Warm
BLACK DRAGON POOL PARK
Spring is from March to May. It is acomfortable seasonwith clear weather, blue sky and flower blossoms.Jade Dragon Snow Mountaincan be seen from almost every corner of the city.
的average daily temperature range (April's) is 8–20°C (46–68°F). Temperatures differ greatly between day and night. Prepare long-sleeve shirts, thick sweaters, and a coat. Convenient and comfortable layers are practical for taking on and off.
Things to Do
Spring is one of the best times to travel to Lijiang. Clear skies, bright sunshine and occasional breezes would make your trip pleasurable. Natural sightseeing, Naxi cultural experience, and outdoor activities are recommended, such as:
- Capture a postcard-perfect photo at Black Dragon Pool Park.
- Stroll throughLijiang Ancient Townand enjoy the special local snacks.
- Learn to make Naxi pancakes from a Naxi lady in Baisha village.
SeeTop 10 Things to Do in Lijiang.
Recommended Tours
Contact usto create a Lijiang tour based on your requirements.
Related Weather Information
Summer — Mild and Humid
LIJIANG ANCIENT TOWN
Summer is from June to September —the "rainy season". There are often heavy rains, which may cause landslides. It is usually cloudy and maybe too foggy to see the snow-capped mountains. It is also more expensive to visit Lijiang in summer.
June and September have moderate rainfall and July and August high rainfall. The rainfall keepsdaily temperatures mild and closer togetherat around 14–23°C (57–73°F).
Wear summer clothes, such as shirts, shorts, and skirts, but take a light coat or sweater for early morning and evening… and an umbrella. If you visit the mountainous areas, you need to prepare warmer clothes and waterproofs. Sunlight is very strong in summer, wear sun protection such as hats, sunglasses and sun block, and drink lots of water.
Top Things to Do
Lijiang's high altitude makes it mild in summer. Breathing the fresh air and doing exciting/intersting activities in the mountainous area are recommended:
- Take a cable car up to the holyJade Dragon Snow Mountain.
- Go bar-hopping in Lijiang Ancient Town
- Discover the mysterious Naxi culture by visiting a shaman's house.
Related Weather Information
Autumn — Dry and Clear
TIGER LEAPING GORGE
Autumn is from October to November. It is themost beautiful season, and also has comfortable weather. Dry and clear, with fall-colored trees and late blossoms, rainfall is rare by mid-October.
October averages 9–20°C (48–68°F) with low rainfall. November is much drier still, averaging 4–17°C (39–63°F).
Temperatures vary greatly between day and night; usually it feels chilly during the night. Bring long-sleeve shirts, light sweaters, and a coat.
Things to Do
In October you can see farmers harvesting in the fields. You should try a hike in the golden season.
- Check out the power of the water and the towering mountains at sensationalTiger Leaping Gorge.
- View the First Bend of Yangtze River.
- Look into the former residence of a Naxi chieftain — Mufu Mansion.
Recommended Tours
- 5-Day Lijiang and Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking
- 3-Day Essence of Ancient Lijiang Tour
- 6-Day Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang Highlights Tour
Related Weather Information
Winter — Clear and Warm
JADE DRAGON SNOW MOUNTAIN
Winter is from December to February. It is a very good season for visitingTiger Leaping Gorge. The weather isclear and mildduring the day, but at night, temperatures often drop below 0°C (32°F).
的re are much fewer travelers in winter, so it is cheaper to travel in this season. Prepare warm clothes such as down jackets and thick sweaters.
Top Things to Do
- Follow American Explorer Rock's steps from his home in Yuhu Village.
- Hike upJade Dragon Snow Mountainfrom Yuhu Village.
- Explore the upper, middle, the lower sections ofTiger Leaping Gorge.
Recommended Tours
Feel free tocontact usif you have any questions or requirements. All our tours can be customized.
Related Weather Information
Our Popular Tours Featuring Lijiang
- 3-Day Essence of Ancient Lijiang Tour: Discover the best of Lijiang in 3 days.
- 5-Day Lijiang and Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour: Experience one of the greatest gorges in China.
- Lijiang Tour Packages: See the best of Lijiang with our adaptable Lijiang tour packages.
- Contact usfor a customized tour.
YOU MIGHT LIKE
- Lijiang Travel Guide
- Top Attractions in Lijiang
- Lijiang Transportation: How to Get to/around
- Top 10 Things to Do in Lijiang
Lijiang Average Monthly Temperatures
Lijiang Average Monthly Precipitation (in)
