Harbin Weather & Climate: Best Time to Visit
Average temperatures, rainfall, sunshine and the best time to visit Harbin.
Climate overview of Harbin
The climate in Harbin, Heilongjiang, China, is marked by large temperature swings across the seasons, ranging from 29°C (84°F) in July to -11°C (12°F) in January.
With around 673 mm (26 in) of annual rain/snowfall, the city has moderate precipitation levels. July is the wettest month and January the driest. It also has a distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters. The most sunshine falls in May, with an average of 8.8 hours of daily sunshine.
Harbin Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Harbin - and find the best time to visit.
Monthly Temperature in Harbin
In Harbin, temperatures differ significantly between summer and winter months. Typically, average maximum daytime temperatures range from a comfortable 29°C (84°F) in July to a very cold -11°C (12°F) in the coolest month, January.
Nights vary from 19°C (66°F) in July to around -23°C (-9°F) during the colder months.
Check out our detailed temperature page for more information.
Temperature ranges by month
Rainfall in Harbin
On average, Harbin receives a reasonable amount of rain/snowfall, with an annual precipitation of 673 mm (26 in). The climate in Harbin shows significant variation throughout the year. Expect high rainfall in July, the wettest month, with an average of 157 mm (6.2 in) of precipitation over 15 rainy days.
In contrast, the driest month January offers drier and sunnier days, with around 6.9 mm (0.3 in) of snowfall over 6 snowy days. For more details, please visit our Harbin 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 Harbin
For those who appreciate different seasons, Harbin serves as an ideal destination. Expect longer, more sun-filled days in May with an average of 8.8 hours of sunshine daily, and embrace the darker days in December, offering only 4.8 hours of daily sunlight.
Visit our detailed sunshine hours page for more information.
Monthly hours of sunshine
Daily hours of sunshine
Daily percentage of sunshine
Humidity in Harbin by Month
The relative humidity is high throughout the year in Harbin.
The city experiences its highest humidity in August, reaching 78%. In April, the humidity drops to its lowest level at 49%. What does this mean? Read our detailed page on humidity levels for further details.
Relative humidity over the year
Best Time to Visit Harbin
Monthly ratings reflect general weather comfort, based on daytime temperature and rainfall. Swimming and winter conditions are highlighted separately where relevant.
- Best overall: May and September
- Warmest weather: July and August
- Most sunshine: May, June and July
- Wettest months: May, June, July, August and September, when rainfall is highest.
- Seasonal pattern: A distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters
- Coldest conditions: January, with freezing nights around -23°C (-9°F).
Frequently asked questions about the climate in Harbin
What is the best time to visit Harbin?
May and September typically offer the most optimal weather in Harbin. In contrast, January, February, March, November and December tend to have less optimal conditions. Harbin has a distinct dry season from October to April, with warm summers and very cold winters.
What temperatures can I expect in Harbin?
Daytime highs range from -11°C (12°F) in January to 29°C (84°F) in July. Nighttime lows range from -23°C (-9°F) to 19°C (66°F). Temperatures vary considerably through the year.
How much rain does Harbin get?
Annual rainfall is around 673 mm (26 in). July is the wettest month with 157 mm (6.2 in), while January is the driest with 6.9 mm (0.3 in).
How sunny is Harbin?
Harbin receives around 2,575 hours of sunshine per year. May is the sunniest month with 265 hours, while December is the cloudiest with just 143 hours. Overall, Harbin enjoys abundant sunshine.
Harbin 3-Day Forecast
Harbin on the map
Harbin is highlighted - select any city to see its climate.
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