China Weather in October 2025: The Ultimate Autumn Travel Guide

As your local host and guide, I’m excited to share an in-depth forecast and travel analysis for China in October 2025. For many travelers, October is considered the most beautiful time to explore this vast country. The skies are clear, the air is crisp, and autumn colors sweep across landscapes from the Great Wall to Guilin.

Below, you’ll find a region-by-region weather outlook, practical packing advice, and travel highlights—perfect both for trip planning and SEO optimization.

Why October Is the Best Month to Visit China

• Mild Temperatures: Average daytime highs range from 15 – 23 °C (59 – 73 °F) across most regions. Nights are cooler at 7 – 12 °C (44 – 54 °F).

• Low Rainfall: National precipitation averages 34–62 mm, with far fewer rainy days than in summer.

• Longer Sunshine Hours: Expect around 7 hours of daylight per day—ideal for outdoor exploration.

• Golden Week Alert: October 1–7 is China’s National Day holiday. This is one of the busiest travel times of the year—expect very large crowds, sold-out tickets, and congested attractions. We strongly recommend avoiding travel during this week if possible.

National Weather Overview

• Average Daytime Temperature: ~19 °C (66 °F)

• Average Nighttime Temperature: ~7 °C (44 °F)

• Rainfall: 34–62 mm depending on region

• Climate Trend: Clearer skies, lower humidity, ideal for both urban sightseeing and nature travel.

Regional Weather & Travel Tips

Region	Cities	Avg. Temp	Climate Features	Packing Tips & Best Activities
North China	Beijing, Xi’an	8 – 19 °C	Dry, cool, sunny; light rain possible	Layered clothing; great for Great Wall hikes, Forbidden City tours
East / Central China	Shanghai, Hangzhou	15 – 23 °C	Warm days, colorful autumn leaves	Light jackets + sweaters; enjoy Suzhou gardens, West Lake strolls
South China	Guilin, Zhangjiajie, Guangzhou	19 – 27 °C	Warm, humid at times, but less rain than summer	T-shirts for daytime, light jacket at night; Li River cruises, mountain treks
Northwest Inland	Dunhuang, Urumqi	12 – 21 °C	Dry air, large day-night temperature swings	Jacket for evenings, lighter clothes by day; Silk Road ruins, desert hikes
Southwest / Highlands	Lhasa, Kunming, Sichuan (Chengdu)	10 – 20 °C	Sunny, cool; chilly mornings and evenings	Strong sun protection, fleece for nights; highland treks, Tibetan culture

Where to See the Best Autumn Colors

• Great Wall (Beijing): Mid-October brings fiery red leaves and crisp skies—arguably the most scenic time to visit.

• Jiuzhaigou Valley (Sichuan): Famous for jewel-toned lakes framed by golden forests.

• Fragrant Hills (Beijing suburbs): Popular for maple foliage.

• Kanas (Xinjiang): Golden birch trees reflected in turquoise waters—otherworldly landscapes.

Packing Tips for October Travelers

• Layered Clothing: Morning and evening temperatures can differ by 10 °C or more.

• Light Jacket / Sweater: Useful for central and northern regions.

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Perfect for city exploration and nature hikes.

• Sun Protection: Essential in high-altitude areas like Tibet or Yunnan.

Travel Advice: Crowds, Timing, and Comfort

• Avoid Golden Week: October 1–7 is extremely crowded nationwide—book early or travel later in the month.

• Best Timing: Mid-October to late October combines fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and peak autumn foliage.

• Photography Lovers: Bring your best camera gear—clear skies and vivid colors make for unforgettable shots.

Final Words

October 2025 will showcase China at its finest: bright blue skies, comfortable weather, and landscapes painted with autumn colors. Whether you’re walking along the Great Wall, cruising the Li River, or trekking the Tibetan highlands, this month offers an ideal balance of climate and culture.

And remember: beyond these famous highlights, every Chinese city is surrounded by smaller towns and hidden gems—unique landscapes, food traditions, and cultural quirks. Each city feels like a country of its own, making China a destination worth returning to again and again.

We look forward to welcoming you here in October—and hope you’ll fall in love with this land, just as we locals have.