The Li River: A Journey Through China’s Most Breathtaking Landscape
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Nanjing Weather in May
May in Nanjing brings high temperatures, with daytime highs of 27°C (81°F) and nights around 17°C (63°F). Quite a bit of rainfall is expected, around 123 mm (4.8 in), so pack an umbrella.
Rainfall in Nanjing in May
Typically, about 11 days will experience rainfall, with an average of 123 mm (4.8 in) for the month. The rain this month tends to fall in heavier spells rather than light drizzle. When it rains, showers can be significant.
Temperature in Nanjing in May
In May, expect high temperatures in Nanjing, with highs of 27°C (81°F) and lows of 17°C (63°F) at night. This gives the month a fairly typical daily rhythm, with warmer afternoons and more comfortable nights. Nights drop to around 17°C (63°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 Nanjing in May
Expect sunny days throughout the month, with an estimated 194 hours of sunshine. This makes it a pleasant time to visit Nanjing.Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. April, September and October typically offer the best weather for Nanjing.
Nanjing Temperature in May
Min Temperature
17°C (63°F)
Max Temperature
27°C (81°F)
Chance of Rain
38%
Precipitation
123 mm (4.8 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
71%
Sunshine
194 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Nanjing Weather by Month
Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Nanjing - and find the best time to visit.
Daily Historical Temperatures
50-year average (1976-2025)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Nanjing typically rise from around 24°C (75°F) at the start of May to approximately 28°C (82°F) by the end. Nights are pleasant, with lows typically ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 19°C (66°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 Nanjing in May
Browse day-by-day weather records for Nanjing spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Nanjing historical weather extremes in May
Based on 50 years of weather observations in Nanjing between 1976 and 2026, these are the recorded extremes.
- Nanjing recorded its highest May temperature of 37°C (99°F) on May 28, 2023.
- Nanjing experienced its chilliest May day on May 5, 1991, reaching only 13°C (55°F).
- Nanjing registered its coldest May night on May 6, 1984, with temperatures dropping to 8°C (46°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 Nanjing in May
Warm weather calls for comfortable, breathable clothing in May. Cotton t-shirts, shorts, light dresses, and sandals are perfect. You might still want a light layer for evenings or air-conditioned places (for example buses). High rain levels are expected, so pack waterproof gear and an umbrella or poncho. And with plenty of sunshine hours, don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and maybe a sun hat.
What To Do in Nanjing in May
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
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Swimming7/10 -
Cycling7/10 -
Walking7/10 -
Camping6/10 -
Outdoor sports7/10
Nanjing 3-Day Forecast
More climate data for Nanjing
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Nanjing 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.