Shanghai Weather

Shanghai Climate & Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Shanghai’s sub-tropical climate guarantees four very distinct seasons.  Winters are typically quite cold, with winds blowing south from China’s northern neighbor, Siberia.  Summers tend to be hot and humid due to warm monsoon winds blowing in from the southeast, bringing with them the occasional thunderstorm.  June is typically the wettest month, with an average rainfall of 6.4 inches.

Although the summer months see the largest influx of visitors, Shanghai is most enjoyable in the fall and spring.  Mild temperatures coupled with lots of sunshine provide ideal conditions for enjoying the city.  Crowds are generally smaller during these seasons as well, only adding to the pleasantness of these months.  While usually hot and sometimes humid, the summer months are made comfortable with air conditioning in almost anywhere you would want to go.  Winter tends to bring with it drastically lower temperatures, with evenings often dropping below freezing.  Snow fall isn’t typical, but it can happen from time to time.  During winter months, duck inside any shop, museum, or restaurant to get away from the cold.  Rest assured everyone will have the heat on full blast!

Clothes for traveling:  In spring and autumn you shouldn’t need a heavy coat, jeans and a sweater are usually enough.  In the summer months, T-shirts and light pants or shorts will keep you cool.  In the colder months it is wise to dress in layers: long underwear and pants, shirts, sweaters and down jackets.  Come prepared for rain if you’re visiting in the summer months.