Weather in January in China
Are you planning a trip a to China in January and wondering what kind of weather to expect? This page has all the details you need.
What is the weather like in China in January?
In January, China experiences a range of weather conditions, with temperatures that range from very cold to warm and precipitation levels ranging from almost none to high. January falls during the winter season.
Temperatures
The average maximum daytime temperatures vary from very cold in Mohe at -19°C to warm in Jinghong at 26°C. Nighttime temperatures generally drop to 11°C in Jinghong and -32°C in Mohe. Typically, it's the chilliest month of the year. Making it a great time for staying indoors and enjoying the warmth. Make sure you're prepared by packing the right winter outfits.For a closer look at conditions across China, refer to the map below.
Precipitation
In January, precipitation varies across different areas. From almost no snowfall in Ejin with an average of 0.5 mm to high snowfall in Yongfu with 136 mm. Going by our weather data, this month in Beijing usually has the least rain, making it the driest month of the year.Average sunshine
Beijing enjoys a balanced 186 hours of sunlight. Ensuring it's neither too overcast nor too sunny.For a more detailed look at China's conditions throughout the year, check out our China climate page.
Where to go in China in January
Select a Month of Interest
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit China, check out our China's climate page.
Popular destinations
What is the weather like in January for the 5 most popular destinations in China?
Beijing
In January Beijing generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 3°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -8°C and almost no monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
Shanghai
In January Shanghai generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 3°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
Guangzhou
In January Guangzhou generally has pleasant temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 20°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 12°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are perfect that month.
Chengdu
In January Chengdu generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 11°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 4°C and low monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are tolerable that month.
Xi'an
In January Xi'an generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 7°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -3°C and low monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in China.
Is January the best time to visit China?
In our view, January might not be the best time to travel to China with often poor weather in Beijing.
Generally speaking, April, September and October provide perfect weather in Beijing. On the other hand, the weather in January and December tend to be poor.
Interested in more climate information?
We have much more information about the climate in China.
Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to China? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in China.
Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.