The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Beijing Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Beijing.
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Climate overview of Beijing
Beijing Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Beijing - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Beijing
The climate in Beijing is known for significant temperature differences throughout the year, making the weather dynamic. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a very warm 34°C (93°F) in July to a chilly 3°C (37°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 23°C (73°F) in July to around -8°C (18°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Beijing
Generally, Beijing receives mid-range precipitation levels, with 560 mm (22 in) annually. The climate in Beijing shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect heavy rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 161 mm (6.3 in) of precipitation over 14 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 4 mm (0.2 in) of snowfall over 2 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Beijing Precipitation page.
The mean monthly precipitation over the year, including rain, hail, and snow
The average number of days each month with precipitation
Sunshine Hours in Beijing
Beijing offers a pleasant mix of sunny and slightly overcast days. The difference in sunshine hours between May (9.0 hours daily) and December (5.7 hours daily) provides a bit of variety for visitors and residents.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Beijing by Month
The relative humidity is moderate throughout the year in Beijing.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 73%. In January, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 44%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Beijing
For comfortable weather, consider visiting Beijing in April, September and October. Conditions are usually least favourable in January and July.
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
Jan
cold
Feb
mixed
Mar
very good
Apr
excellent
May
good
Jun
mixed
Jul
very hot
Aug
mixed
Sep
excellent
Oct
excellent
Nov
good
Dec
mixed
- Best overall: April, September and October
- Warmest weather: June, July and August
- Most sunshine: May
- Fewest rainy days: January, February, March and December
- Wettest months: June, July and August, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to May, with very warm summers and cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -8°C (18°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Beijing
What is the best time to visit Beijing?
April, September and October typically offer the most optimal weather in Beijing. In contrast, January and July tend to have less optimal conditions. Beijing has a distinct dry season from October to May, with very warm summers and cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Beijing?
Daytime highs range from 3°C (37°F) in January to 34°C (93°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -8°C (18°F) to 23°C (73°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Beijing get?
Annual rainfall is around 560 mm (22 in). July is the wettest month with 161 mm (6.3 in), while January is the driest with 4 mm (0.2 in).
How sunny is Beijing?
Beijing receives around 2,500 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 270 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 172 hours. Overall, Beijing enjoys abundant sunshine.
Beijing 3-Day Forecast
Beijing on the map
Beijing is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
Popular in September
Where to go in September - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
Go to China's Zhangjiajie National Park with the highest, the fastest, largest-loaded outdoor elevator in the world
You won't find this unique landscape anywhere else in the world. Thousands of floating mountains overgrown with trees at the top dominate this fairy tale landscape.
Go to Xinjiang in China
In Xinjiang you get to see a mix of East and Central Asia. An experience that you might want to add to your bucket list. You can travel through the province as if you are following an ancient silk route.
Mount Kailash
The best time for a Kailash tour/trekking is from mid-May to mid-October when the temperature is most pleasant. It is warm, dry and sunny in that period.