The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Kunming Weather in May
Kunming in May sees high temperatures, with highs around 26°C (79°F) and overnight lows of 16°C (61°F). Rainfall is fairly high at around 142 mm (5.6 in) on average, so pack waterproofs just in case.
Rainfall in Kunming in May
Based on our climate data of the past 30 years, about 13 days of rain are anticipated, with 142 mm (5.6 in) on average. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Kunming in May
May in Kunming brings high temperatures, with highs of 26°C (79°F) and nights around 16°C (61°F). Conditions stay fairly consistent through the month, making it easier to plan what to wear. Nights drop to around 16°C (61°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. It's the warmest month of the year on average, so summer clothing is the way to go.
Sunshine in Kunming in May
The city usually sees around 212 hours of sunlight, indicating many sunny days , a great month for sightseeing.For Kunming itself, March and April generally stand out with the best circumstances. If you're seeking pleasant, dry and sunny weather somewhere else in the world, our weather planner can help you explore other options.
Kunming Temperature in May
Min Temperature
16°C (61°F)
Max Temperature
26°C (79°F)
Chance of Rain
42%
Precipitation
142 mm (5.6 in)
Rainy days
13 days
Humidity
66%
Sunshine
212 hours
Percentage Sunshine
52%
Kunming Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Kunming - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Kunming typically stay consistent throughout May, with daily highs averaging around 26°C (79°F). Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 17°C (63°F).
Average temperatures in May
Daily Historical Precipitation
50-year average (1976-2025)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in May
Historical weather records for Kunming in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Kunming spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Kunming historical weather extremes in May
According to our 50 years of weather records for Kunming, the following extremes were recorded between 1976 and 2026.
- Kunming recorded its highest May temperature of 32°C (90°F) on May 6, 2010.
- The lowest daytime temperature in May was 11°C (52°F), recorded on May 14, 2006.
- The coldest night in May in Kunming was on May 2, 2022, with a minimum of 4°C (39°F).
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 Kunming 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. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. You'll definitely want to pack sunglasses and sunscreen. There will be plenty of bright sunshine this month.
What To Do in Kunming in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming9/10 -
Cycling7/10 -
Walking7/10 -
Camping6/10 -
Outdoor sports7/10
Kunming 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Kunming
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Kunming 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.