Dunhuang Weather in January
Dunhuang in January sees very low daytime temperatures of 0°C (32°F) and nighttime lows of -12°C (10°F). With just 1.7 mm (0.1 in) of snow/rainfall expected, it's a dry month overall.
Rainfall in Dunhuang in January
Expect around a single day of snow/rain based on historical data, with 1.7 mm (0.1 in) average. On the rare occasion it rains this month, it usually amounts to very little.
Temperature in Dunhuang in January
Expect highs of 0°C (32°F) in Dunhuang in January, with nights dropping to around -12°C (10°F). During January, the winter season is in full swing. Expect a distinctly cold feel throughout the day, not just overnight. At -12°C (10°F) overnight, frost and ice are likely outside. Indoors, consider packing an extra blanket if you're unsure about the heating. Since it's the coldest month of the year, you'll want to bundle up with extra layers and winter clothing.
Sunshine in Dunhuang in January
Expect a lot of sunshine this month, with about 220 hours of sun. These sunny conditions help offset the cool temperatures, making it a pleasant month to explore outdoors.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Dunhuang. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
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 Dunhuang's climate page.
Dunhuang Temperature in January
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Dunhuang typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 0°C (32°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -15°C (5°F) to -12°C (10°F).
Average temperatures in January
Historical weather for Dunhuang in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Dunhuang spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Dunhuang historical weather extremes in January
According to our 49 years of weather records for Dunhuang, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2025.
- The hottest January day on record in Dunhuang reached 11°C (52°F) (January 30, 2014).
- On January 15, 1979, Dunhuang saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at -15°C (5°F).
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to -28°C (-18°F) on January 15, 1979, marking the coldest January night on record.
Best Places in China in January
Find out more about the weather in China and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of China in January →
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What to Wear in Dunhuang in January
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. With minimal rainfall expected, you can leave the rain gear at home. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.What To Do in Dunhuang in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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 Dunhuang's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Dunhuang climate overview or explore weather in China.