If you’re planning a trip to Guangzhou, you’ll want to keep an eye on the weather. This city in southern China has a humid subtropical climate, so summers get hot, winters stay mild, and the rainy season can drench the city for weeks at a time.
Most people agree that autumn, from October to December, is the best time to visit for comfortable weather. Temperatures drop to a pleasant range, and humidity finally lets up.
Spring can feel pretty nice too, especially in March and April, when flowers pop up all over the city. Summer? It’s honestly pretty brutal—hot, sticky, and there’s always the risk of typhoons from July to August.
Winter doesn’t get very cold compared to northern China, so if you like cooler days but hate freezing, you’ll probably enjoy it.
Knowing what each season brings really helps you plan for the best experiences. You can catch the Pearl River or Baiyun Mountain at their best, or time your trip for festivals and bustling markets.
If you visit at the right time, Guangzhou really shines.
Overview of Guangzhou Climate
Guangzhou’s humid subtropical climate is shaped by the Asian monsoon. Winters feel mild, while summers get hot and wet. Rain piles up during the warmer months.
You’ll notice high humidity almost all year, and typhoons sometimes roll in during late summer or early autumn.
Key Weather Patterns Throughout the Year
Winters in Guangzhou are short and mild. From December to February, daytime highs usually hit around 19–21 °C (66–70 °F). Frost almost never happens.
Nights can get chilly, sometimes dropping to 10 °C (50 °F).
Spring brings warmer temps and more rain. By May, days reach about 29 °C (84 °F). Thunderstorms show up often.
The air feels muggy, and the sky stays pretty cloudy.
Summer lasts from June through September. Daytime highs reach 32–33 °C (89–91 °F), but humidity makes it feel even hotter.
You’ll see heavy showers and thunderstorms, and typhoons sometimes cause strong winds and flooding.
Autumn is short but a lot more pleasant. October still feels warm, but by November, highs average around 25 °C (77 °F).
Rain drops off, and skies clear up, making this a really nice time to be outside.
Temperature and Rainfall Overview
Guangzhou’s annual average temperature hovers around 23 °C (73 °F). January gets the coldest, with averages of 14–15 °C (58–59 °F). July tops out near 30 °C (86 °F).
Summer nights rarely dip below 23 °C (73 °F), so it stays warm even after sunset.
Rainfall is intense, with about 1,950 mm (76.5 in) each year. May and June are the wettest, each bringing over 300 mm (12 in) of rain.
These months often have 14–16 rainy days.
December and January are much drier, usually with less than 50 mm (2 in) of rain per month. Most of the rain falls between April and September.
| Month | Avg Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 14.6 | 51 |
| May | 26.6 | 329 |
| Jul | 29.6 | 243 |
| Sep | 28.1 | 203 |
| Dec | 16.3 | 33 |
Humidity and Air Quality Trends
Humidity sticks around all year. From March to September, it usually ranges between 75–85%. Warm days feel hotter, and nights can get pretty sticky.
Locals rely on air conditioning to deal with the damp heat.
In winter, humidity drops a bit but still averages around 65–70%. Fog, drizzle, and gray skies show up often, especially in January and February.
Air quality changes with the weather. Rain helps clear pollutants, but when the air gets stagnant and humid, haze can hang around.
Typhoons sometimes blow away pollution for a while, but they bring their own problems.
If you’re sensitive to humidity or pollution, late autumn is probably your best bet. Skies clear up, moisture drops, and breathing feels easier.
Best Time to Visit Guangzhou for Ideal Weather
Guangzhou’s subtropical climate means summers are hot and humid, while winters stay mild. The best conditions usually show up in autumn and spring.
These seasons bring moderate temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer weather surprises, so outdoor sightseeing and cultural activities feel much more inviting.
Why Autumn is the Most Recommended Season
Autumn in Guangzhou, especially from late September through November, brings the most comfortable weather. Daytime highs usually land between 18–27°C (64–80°F), and humidity drops off.
Walking tours, outdoor markets, and river cruises feel a lot more enjoyable.
You’ll avoid the heavy spring rains and the typhoon risks of July and August. Clear skies make it easy to explore the Canton Tower, old temples, or Shamian Island.
October and November often bring cultural events and trade fairs. Hotels might cost more, but the city feels lively.
If you plan ahead, you can enjoy both the mild climate and the buzz of seasonal festivals.
Spring Advantages for Travelers
Spring, from March to early April, brings mild temps around 13–20°C (55–68°F). Flowers bloom everywhere, especially at Yuexiu Park and the South China Botanical Garden.
You’ll see azaleas, plum blossoms, and red kapok trees in full color.
Humidity rises, and light rain is common. Still, the fresh greenery and all those flowers make spring a great time for nature lovers and photographers.
If you visit in February, you might catch the Spring Festival (Chinese New Year). It’s China’s biggest holiday, so attractions get crowded and hotels cost more.
But if you don’t mind the crowds, the festive markets and lantern shows are a real treat.
Comparing Other Seasons
Summer in Guangzhou, from May to September, is hot and humid. Highs often climb above 30°C (86°F).
Rain pours down, and typhoons sometimes interrupt travel plans. Water parks and shaded gardens help, but sightseeing isn’t exactly comfortable.
Winter, from December to January, feels mild compared to the north. Temperatures range from 10–20°C (50–68°F), so a light jacket usually does the trick.
The city hosts flower fairs and cultural events. The air can feel damp, and evenings get chilly.
If you don’t like crowds and want lower prices, winter works. Just don’t expect the sunny, stable days that make autumn so appealing.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Each Season
Guangzhou’s humid subtropical climate means long summers, short winters, and lots of rain. The city’s vibe changes a lot depending on when you visit.
Spring: Blooming Parks and Mild Temperatures
Spring lasts from March to May. Temperatures climb from about 15 °C (59 °F) in March to nearly 28 °C (82 °F) by May.
Humidity rises, and by April, the rainy season kicks in. Showers come often but don’t usually last long.
Parks and streets explode with color, and the city’s spring flower fairs are a highlight. If you like outdoor walks, this is a great time to check out Yuexiu Park or stroll along the Pearl River.
Bring flexible clothing. Early spring mornings call for a light jacket or sweater, but by May, short sleeves feel better.
You should carry an umbrella or light raincoat since rain picks up in late spring.
Summer: Hot, Humid, and Rainy Conditions
Summer stretches from June to early October and feels endless some years. Average daytime highs often pass 30 °C (86 °F). July and August can hit 37 °C (99 °F).
Humidity stays high, making the air feel heavy and sticky.
It’s also the peak rainy season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and typhoons sometimes roll through.
You’ll want to check weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities.
Dress light—shorts, T-shirts, and sun protection help you get by. Locals swear by herbal teas to cool off and stay hydrated.
If you need a break from the heat, museums and shopping malls offer a cool escape.
Autumn: Pleasant Weather and Clear Skies
Autumn in Guangzhou runs from mid-October to early December. It’s easily the most comfortable season, with average highs around 25 °C (77 °F) and lows near 18 °C (64 °F).
Rain falls off sharply, and skies are clearer.
Travelers love this short season. Parks, temples, and outdoor markets are fun to explore without sweating or dodging rain.
Day trips to Baiyun Mountain are perfect for hiking in the cooler air.
A light sweater or long-sleeve shirt usually does the job. Evenings can get cool, but you won’t need heavy winter gear.
This season really strikes a nice balance between mild weather and outdoor fun.
Winter: Cool, Dry, and Festive Atmosphere
Winter in Guangzhou is brief, from late December to February. Daytime temperatures average around 18 °C (64 °F), and nights can dip to 10 °C (50 °F).
Forget about snow—unlike northern China, it never shows up here. The climate stays dry and sunny.
Sightseeing feels comfortable, with low humidity and barely any rain. The city gets lively with festivals, including the Spring Festival and big flower markets.
Long trousers and a sweater are usually enough. A light coat helps on cooler nights.
You won’t need heavy winter clothes. If you want to avoid heat and rain, this is a practical time to see Guangzhou.
Monthly Weather Guide for Guangzhou
Guangzhou’s humid subtropical climate brings hot, wet summers and mild, drier winters. Temperatures shift slowly through the year, and rainfall patterns really shape when it’s best to get outside.
Notable Features of Each Month
From January to March, temperatures sit between 10–20°C (50–68°F). Winters are short, cool, and sometimes damp, but you’ll be fine with a light or medium jacket.
Early spring brings heavy humidity and fog, which can make it feel colder than the thermometer says.
April to June starts the rainy season. Daily showers, thunderstorms, and rising heat are the norm.
Average highs climb toward 30°C (86°F). Flowers bloom everywhere, so parks and gardens look their best even if it’s raining.
July and August hit the peak of summer. Highs often break 32°C (90°F), and humidity soars.
Typhoons sometimes hit, bringing heavy rain and strong winds. Outdoor travel gets tricky during these months.
September to November is the sweet spot. Daytime highs stay between 18–27°C (64–80°F).
Rain falls less, and skies are usually clear. Walking tours, shopping, and sightseeing all feel more relaxed.
December cools down but doesn’t get harsh. Temperatures hover around 10–18°C (50–64°F).
A jacket is usually enough. Crowds thin out, and hotel rates often drop unless there’s a major holiday.
Guangzhou in September: Highlights
September in Guangzhou feels like the city is easing out of summer and heading into autumn. Temperatures usually hover between 24–30°C (75–86°F), and you’ll notice the humidity dropping a bit compared to July and August.
You might still get caught in an occasional shower, but those relentless summer downpours finally start letting up.
This month feels great for exploring outdoors. Yuexiu Park and Baiyun Mountain draw people in for their walking trails and city views.
With less humidity, climbing or going for a long walk doesn’t drain you as much.
Markets and pedestrian streets like Shangxiajiu Road stay lively in September. Shopping becomes way more comfortable without the oppressive heat.
Evening cruises on the Pearl River are a treat now that nights cool off a little.
If you’re coming in late September, you might catch the Mid-Autumn Festival. Lanterns, mooncakes, and cultural performances pop up all over the city.
Rainy and Typhoon Periods
Rainfall in Guangzhou jumps around depending on the month. The wettest months stretch from April through September, with June usually bringing the heaviest rain.
Showers come on quick and hard, but don’t last long. Carrying an umbrella is just smart.
Typhoon season peaks from July to September. Storms roll in with strong winds, heavy rain, and sometimes flooding.
Local weather forecasts give pretty reliable warnings, so check them before heading out for outdoor plans.
From October to March, the rain mostly disappears. Winter and autumn are much drier, with lots of sunny days.
Sightseeing and day trips get easier to plan.
Humidity can sneak up on you too. In spring and early summer, the moisture makes it feel even hotter.
By late autumn, the air dries out, and walking around the city feels way more comfortable.
Major Events and Festivals Influenced by Weather
Seasonal weather really shapes how Guangzhou’s big events unfold. Comfortable temperatures and less rain make cultural festivals a lot more enjoyable.
Hot, sticky weather can change how you want to plan your days.
Canton Fair and Spring Festival
The Canton Fair runs twice a year, in spring and autumn, and it’s massive. Spring sessions go from April to May, and you’ll probably notice temperatures climbing and rain showing up more often.
You should bring an umbrella and expect it to feel humid.
The autumn session, from October to November, gets lucky with milder, drier weather. It’s easier to move between exhibition halls, and you might want to explore the city after the day’s events.
Evenings are just right for eating outdoors or strolling along the Pearl River.
The Spring Festival, or Chinese New Year, lands in late January or February. Winters here stay pretty mild, with daytime highs near 18–20 °C (64–68 °F).
You can actually enjoy temple fairs, fireworks, and family traditions without dealing with the bitter cold you’d find up north.
Mid-Autumn Festival and Light Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival typically falls in September or early October. The weather’s shifting out of summer, so you get less rain and cooler evenings.
It’s honestly a great time to join locals for moon-gazing, eating mooncakes, and hanging out with family outdoors.
The Guangzhou International Light Festival often lines up with this season. It lights up the Pearl River and places like Canton Tower.
With clearer skies and lower humidity, the light shows look even more vivid, and you can walk along the riverbanks at night without breaking a sweat.
Autumn doesn’t last long here, so if you want to avoid the last bits of late-summer humidity in September, planning ahead helps.
By October, the weather usually settles down and feels perfect for nighttime events.
Flower Markets and Outdoor Celebrations
Guangzhou calls itself the “City of Flowers,” and seasonal weather really matters for its floral traditions.
The famous Spring Festival flower markets pop up just before Lunar New Year. Mild winter air lets these outdoor markets flourish, with bursts of orchids, kumquats, and peach blossoms everywhere.
From February into early April, the city keeps blooming as things warm up. Parks and riverbanks fill with flowers, and people gather outside.
Rain picks up later in spring, so March is usually the sweet spot for flower-viewing.
Temple fairs and cultural parades also thrive thanks to Guangzhou’s dry winter and early spring. You can wander busy streets, shop at market stalls, and catch performances without worrying about extreme weather.
Top Outdoor Attractions and Weather Considerations
You’ll get the most out of Guangzhou’s outdoor spots if you time your visit right. Mild weather and blue skies make some places really shine, but heat and humidity can cut your adventures short.
Yuexiu Park and Baiyun Mountain
Yuexiu Park stands as Guangzhou’s largest park, famous for the Five Rams Sculpture and Zhenhai Tower.
Spring and autumn offer the best weather, with temperatures between 20°C–28°C (68°F–82°F).
Walking the paths or relaxing in the gardens just feels better without heavy humidity.
Rain starts to pick up in late spring, so tossing an umbrella in your bag is smart. During summer, daytime highs often hit 33°C (91°F) or more, and outdoor activities can wear you out fast.
If you’re set on visiting then, try to go early in the morning to dodge the worst heat and crowds.
Baiyun Mountain gives you shady trails and a little extra elevation, so it’s cooler than the city center. Clear autumn skies offer some of the best panoramic views of Guangzhou.
Winter works too, with mild temperatures around 10°C–20°C (50°F–68°F) and usually better air quality.
Canton Tower and Shamian Island
Canton Tower, one of the world’s tallest towers, is at its best in the evening after the day’s heat fades. Autumn nights feel especially pleasant, with low humidity and temperatures near 22°C (72°F).
The outdoor observation decks aren’t much fun in summer thanks to the strong sun and sticky air.
Shamian Island, with its shady streets and colonial buildings, is perfect for a relaxed walk. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable, as the mild weather makes exploring easy.
In summer, the old banyan trees give some relief, but the humidity can still be tough.
Winter stays gentle, with highs around 15°C–20°C (59°F–68°F), so walking tours are manageable. Sometimes fog rolls in and cuts visibility, but it rarely stops you from exploring the area.
Chimelong Water Park: Best Visiting Times
Chimelong Water Park ranks as one of Asia’s biggest, and hot weather draws the crowds. The park mainly runs in summer, when temperatures can soar above 35°C (95°F).
High humidity and afternoon thunderstorms show up often, so try to hit the rides early in the day.
The rainy season, from May to September, brings heavy showers, but they usually blow through fast. Bringing light rain gear can save you if a storm hits out of nowhere.
Late spring or early autumn visits are usually more comfortable. The weather stays warm enough for water fun, but humidity drops and the crowds thin out compared to peak summer.
Travel Tips for Visiting Guangzhou by Season
Guangzhou’s subtropical climate means humid summers, mild winters, and really nice autumns.
Packing the right clothes, timing your trip to avoid crowds, and picking activities that fit the season will make your visit smoother.
Packing Recommendations
Spring (March–May) feels warm but damp. Pack a light sweater, T-shirts, and an umbrella since rain falls pretty often.
Shoes that dry quickly will save you on soggy days.
Summer (June–August) gets hot and sticky, often over 30°C. Bring light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
A thin jacket helps indoors where the AC can be freezing.
Autumn (September–December) is the sweet spot. Grab long-sleeved shirts, a light jacket, and comfy walking shoes.
If you’re planning to shop, leave some space in your suitcase.
Winter (January–February) stays mild but damp, with temps around 10–15°C. Wear layers, a cozy sweater, and thick socks.
Even though there’s no snow, the damp cold can sneak up on you, so don’t pack just light clothes.
Tips for Avoiding Crowds and Extreme Weather
Rain pours hardest from April to June, so it’s a good idea to plan indoor activities like museums or Cantonese cooking classes during that stretch.
Typhoons sometimes hit in late summer, so keep an eye on the weather if you’re traveling then.
Autumn is the busiest tourist season. Book flights and hotels two to three months ahead for better deals.
Shopping areas and wholesale markets get packed in October and November, so going early in the morning helps you dodge the crowds.
Chinese public holidays, like National Day (early October) and Spring Festival (January or February), bring huge crowds. Prices jump, and tickets sell out fast.
If you can, avoid these dates or stay flexible with your plans.
Winter comes with fewer tourists and shorter lines, so you can visit hotspots like the Canton Tower or take Pearl River cruises without the long waits.
Recommended Guangzhou Tours
In spring, I’d suggest joining a city walking tour. You can check out historic temples and old colonial buildings while the weather feels pretty comfortable. Sometimes, rain cuts outdoor time short, so it helps if your tour mixes indoor and outdoor stops.
Summer’s honestly better for evening tours. A Pearl River night cruise comes to mind, since the air cools down a bit after sunset. I’d steer clear of outdoor tours in the middle of the day—heat and humidity can make things rough.
Autumn really shines for day trips to Baiyun Mountain or Shamian Island. The skies usually stay clear, so you can wander outside and actually enjoy it. A lot of travelers also go for shopping tours at the wholesale markets around this time.
Winter feels perfect for cultural and food tours. Maybe try a guided walk through Qingping Market or sign up for a Cantonese dim sum tasting. With fewer tourists around, guides tend to give you more attention and can show you some real local spots.