Weather in January in China
Planning a getaway to China this January and curious about the weather you should prepare for? Discover all the vital details you need on this page, solving your puzzle:
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.
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. In Beijing, this particular month consistently records the lowest levels of rainfall, making it the driest period throughout the entire year.Average sunshine
The city Beijing usually sees around 186 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.For specific regional insights in China for January, refer to the map provided below. For an in-depth overview of the yearly weather conditions, do visit our China climate page.
Where to go in China in January
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Interested in the weather conditions in a specific month? Select the month below.
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.