The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Dunhuang Weather in May
Dunhuang in May sees high daytime temperatures of 28°C (82°F) and nighttime lows of 13°C (55°F). With just 6 mm (0.2 in) of rainfall expected, it's a dry month overall.
Rainfall in Dunhuang in May
The climate data from previous years indicates about a single day of rain, averaging 6 mm (0.2 in) for the month. If rain does fall, it tends to be a moderate shower rather than anything heavy.
Temperature in Dunhuang in May
Dunhuang in May has excellent weather. Days reach 28°C (82°F) and nights cool to 13°C (55°F). Overall, the month follows a fairly predictable daily temperature pattern. Nights drop to around 13°C (55°F), which is noticeably cooler than the daytime. A light jacket for the evening is a sensible addition, and the cool nights tend to make sleeping comfortable.
Sunshine in Dunhuang in May
There are approximately 320 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.If you're inclined towards comfortable temperatures and drier conditions, May is a good time to visit Dunhuang.
Dunhuang Temperature in May
Min Temperature
13°C (55°F)
Max Temperature
28°C (82°F)
Chance of Rain
4%
Precipitation
6 mm (0.2 in)
Rainy days
a single day
Humidity
33%
Sunshine
320 hours
Percentage Sunshine
72%
Dunhuang Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Dunhuang - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Dunhuang typically rise from around 25°C (77°F) at the start of May to approximately 29°C (84°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 9°C (48°F) to 14°C (57°F).
Average temperatures in May
Historical weather records for Dunhuang in May
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 May
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Dunhuang from 1976 through 2026.
- On May 21, 2024, temperatures climbed to 39°C (102°F), marking the warmest May day on record.
- Nighttime temperatures dropped to 0°C (32°F) on May 1, 1977, marking the coldest May night on record.
Best Places in China in May
Find out more about the weather in China and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of China in May →
perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor
Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).
What to Wear in Dunhuang in May
Warm temperatures in May make for comfortable sightseeing weather. Pack breathable fabrics like cotton shirts, knee-length shorts or skirts, and comfortable walking shoes. A thin long sleeve for indoor spaces is handy. With minimal rainfall expected, you can leave the rain gear at home. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.
What To Do in Dunhuang in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming10/10 -
Cycling8/10 -
Walking8/10 -
Barbeque10/10 -
Camping10/10 -
Outdoor sports8/10
Dunhuang 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Dunhuang
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Dunhuang climate overview or explore weather in China.
Popular in May
Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.
Bucket list
Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.
The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
Go to China's Zhangjiajie National Park with the highest, the fastest, largest-loaded outdoor elevator in the world
You won't find this unique landscape anywhere else in the world. Thousands of floating mountains overgrown with trees at the top dominate this fairy tale landscape.
Go to Xinjiang in China
In Xinjiang you get to see a mix of East and Central Asia. An experience that you might want to add to your bucket list. You can travel through the province as if you are following an ancient silk route.
Mount Kailash
The best time for a Kailash tour/trekking is from mid-May to mid-October when the temperature is most pleasant. It is warm, dry and sunny in that period.