China weather in December
Are you planning a trip to China in December and wondering what kind of weather to expect? This page has all the details you need.
What is the weather like in China in December?
China offers a broad spectrum of weather patterns. In December, one might encounter temperatures that range from very cold to warm, and precipitation levels ranging from almost none to moderate. December is a winter month.
The average maximum daytime temperatures vary from very cold in Mohe at -20°C to warm in Sanya at 25°C. Nighttime temperatures generally drop to 19°C in Sanya and -31°C in Mohe. In numerous regions in China, December is marked by its cold weather conditions. If you're heading to these areas during this month, it's vital to be well-prepared. Dressing in layered and insulated outfits will ensure you stay warm.
In December, precipitation varies across different areas. From almost no snowfall in Ejin with an average of 0.8 mm to moderate snowfall in Wanning with 99 mm. Most areas experience a moderate amount of sunshine, with approximately 172 hours of sunlight expected in Beijing. This makes it neither too gloomy nor overly bright.
For specific regional insights in China for December, 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 December
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Popular destinations in China
What is the weather like in December for the 5 most popular destinations in China?
Average weather in Beijing
In December Beijing generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 5°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -6°C and almost no monthly snow/rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Average weather in Shanghai
In December Shanghai generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 12°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 5°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
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Average weather in Guangzhou
In December Guangzhou generally has pleasant temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 22°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 13°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are perfect that month.
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Average weather in Chengdu
In December Chengdu generally has moderate temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 12°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 5°C and low monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are tolerable that month.
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Average weather in Xi'an
In December Xi'an generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 9°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -2°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 December the best time to visit China?
In our opinion, December may not be the ideal time to visit China due to the typically poor weather in Beijing.
On average, the best time to visit China is in April, September and October with generally perfect weather in Beijing. The weather in January and December, on the other hand, tends 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 climate conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.