Nanjing has four distinct seasons, each with its own vibe. Not every season feels great for a visit, though. Summers hit you with heavy heat and humidity, while winters get damp and cold.
Honestly, if you want the most comfortable trip, go in spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The temperatures stay mild, and the city’s parks and historic spots look their best.
In spring, blossoms pop up everywhere—lakes, gardens, you name it. Autumn turns the city gold and red. These seasons give you comfortable weather and show off Nanjing’s cultural landmarks at their finest.
You can wander along the ancient city wall, explore Purple Mountain, or take in the scent of osmanthus flowers. All this without sweating buckets or shivering in the cold.
If you plan your trip for these months, you’ll catch Nanjing at its best. Each season really changes the city’s atmosphere, festivals, and outdoor options. Picking the right time can make your trip so much better.
Overview of Nanjing Weather and Climate
Nanjing sits in a humid subtropical zone, shaped by the East Asian monsoon. You’ll get hot summers, cold winters, and shorter, comfy spring and autumn stretches.
Rain shows up pretty often, and humidity really affects how the weather feels all year.
Four Distinct Seasons
You’ll notice four clear seasons in Nanjing. Spring (March–May) brings mild temperatures, but days can flip between warm and cool. Usually, a light jacket or sweater does the trick.
Summer (June–September) drags on, hot and humid. People call Nanjing one of the “furnace cities” along the Yangtze River for a reason—temps often hit above 34 °C (93 °F). Rain peaks in June and July, so bring an umbrella and sunblock.
Autumn (October–November) is short but lovely. Days are cool and dry, and the air feels fresh. This is probably the best time for outdoor stuff.
Winter (December–February) gets damp and cold. Snow doesn’t pile up, but temps can drop below freezing. The humidity makes it feel even colder. Thick coats and layers are a must.
Average Temperature and Precipitation
On average, Nanjing sits at about 15–16 °C (59–61 °F) for the year. July brings the hottest days, with highs around 32 °C (90 °F) and lows near 25 °C (77 °F).
January is the coldest, with highs near 7 °C (45 °F) and lows close to -1 °C (30 °F).
Rain falls pretty steadily, averaging 1,000–1,100 millimeters (39–43 inches) a year. It rains about 110–120 days annually.
Summer storms bring the most rain, but showers can pop up anytime.
This mix of heat, cold, and rain makes each season feel pretty different, which definitely affects travel plans.
Humidity and Rainy Season
Humidity sticks around in Nanjing for most of the year. Summer air feels heavy, and even in winter, the moisture makes the cold bite harder than you’d expect.
The rainy season usually hits in June and July. The East Asian monsoon brings long stretches of rain, sometimes for days. Monthly averages can go over 200 millimeters (8 inches).
Outside of that, rain still shows up often, though not as intense. If you plan around the rainy months, you can dodge the worst heat and the biggest storms.
Best Time to Visit Nanjing: Key Recommendations
Nanjing’s weather swings a lot—hot, humid summers and chilly, damp winters. The sweet spots for travel are autumn and spring. You get mild temps, clearer skies, and sightseeing feels way more relaxed.
Why Autumn Is Considered the Best Season
People rave about autumn in Nanjing, from October to November. The weather is cool, dry, and steady. Highs hover around 20 °C (68 °F). Humidity drops, so walking around, checking out historic sites, or hanging out in parks is way more comfortable.
You’ll notice osmanthus blossoms everywhere, giving the city a gentle scent. Parks like Mochou Lake and Purple Mountain really shine with colorful leaves and crisp air.
Clothes are simple: a light sweater and coat usually work. Rain isn’t much of a bother, so you can plan outside without too much worry.
With fewer crowds and reliable weather, autumn really gives you the best balance for comfort and sightseeing.
Spring as an Alternative Prime Time
Spring, from March to May, is a solid pick if you like things a bit warmer and greener. Highs go from 15 °C (59 °F) in March up to 26 °C (79 °F) by May.
Parks and gardens burst with cherry blossoms and fresh green leaves.
Spring brings humidity, and the temps can swing fast. One day feels warm, the next could be chilly. Wear layers—shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket are your friends.
Rain happens more than in autumn, especially late spring. Bring an umbrella, but showers usually don’t last long. Even with the rain, spring is a beautiful time to wander through old neighborhoods and along the river.
Periods to Avoid Due to Weather or Crowds
You might want to skip summer (June to September). Nanjing’s “three furnace cities” nickname isn’t a joke—daytime highs often top 34 °C (93 °F), and the humidity makes it feel worse. June and July get hit with heavy rain during the plum rain season.
Winter, from December to February, is cold and damp. Lows stick around freezing, and humidity makes it feel even colder. Snow happens, but not enough to plan a trip for.
Crowds spike during the National Day Golden Week in early October. Attractions, hotels, and transport all get packed and pricey. If you want autumn weather without the chaos, avoid this holiday.
Seasonal Breakdown: What to Expect Each Season
Nanjing’s humid subtropical climate gives you four seasons: mild springs with blossoms, hot and rainy summers, crisp autumns full of color, and winters that feel colder than they look on paper.
Spring Weather and Travel Experience
Spring runs March to May, with comfy temps from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Rain is light but frequent, so keep an umbrella handy. Humidity sits at a nice, manageable level for outdoor stuff.
You’ll see plum and cherry blossoms everywhere. Top spots are Xuanwu Lake Park, Jiming Temple, and Meihua Mountain. The flowers and greenery make the city super photogenic.
Crowds aren’t too bad. Hotels can get pricey during big flower festivals, so book early if you can. A light jacket works for daytime, but nights can still get cool.
Summer Climate and Considerations
Summer, June to August, is tough for travelers. Temps often soar above 35°C (95°F), and humidity is through the roof.
July and August bring the rainy season with lots of downpours and the odd storm.
The heat can really wear you out, so avoid outdoor activities at midday. Indoor spots like museums and malls offer a cool break.
The Dragon Boat Festival adds some fun, but school holidays and the heat bring bigger crowds. Drink water, wear light clothes, and do your sightseeing in the morning or evening.
Autumn Weather and Attractions
Autumn, September to November, is probably the nicest stretch. Highs usually land between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with low humidity and clear skies.
Osmanthus flowers bloom, filling parks and streets with a sweet scent. Foliage at Purple Mountain and Mochou Lake Park makes for great walks and photos.
Major holidays like the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day Golden Week bring lots of visitors. Book trains and hotels early if you’re coming then. Pack layers—nights get chilly.
Winter Conditions and Travel Tips
Winter, December to February, brings cold, damp air. Temps range from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). Humidity makes the cold feel sharper. Snow is rare but can happen.
Tourist numbers drop, so you get quieter sights. Local hot springs, like those in Tangshan, are popular for warming up.
During Chinese New Year, the city gets busy and festive, but many shops and attractions close for the holiday. Dress in layers, since indoor heating isn’t always strong. Outside holiday weeks, hotel prices drop, so winter can be a budget option.
Major Festivals and Events by Season
Festivals in Nanjing usually match the seasons, blending tradition with the city’s scenery. If you time your trip right, you can catch both good weather and unique celebrations.
International Plum Blossom Festival
The International Plum Blossom Festival happens late winter to early spring, usually February through March. It takes place at Meihua Mountain near the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum, a top spot for plum blossoms.
Thousands of plum trees cover the hills, turning everything pink, red, and white. Locals and visitors come for the flowers, photos, and cultural shows.
While you’re there, you can check out the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum or the Ming Tombs nearby. The mix of blooms and history makes this time special.
Light jackets and umbrellas help, since early spring can be cool and damp. Crowds are moderate, but hotels fill up fast, so book ahead.
Dragon Boat Festival and Summer Celebrations
The Dragon Boat Festival usually lands in June and is summer’s main event in Nanjing. Teams race dragon boats on local rivers and lakes, making for a lively scene.
You should try zongzi, sticky rice wrapped in bamboo leaves, sold everywhere during the holiday.
Summer evenings come alive along the Qinhuai River and at the Confucius Temple area. Street food, night markets, and cultural shows make the warm nights more fun.
Since summer is hot and humid, plan outdoor stuff for mornings or evenings. Wear light clothes, use sunscreen, and drink lots of water to enjoy the festivities.
Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day
The Mid-Autumn Festival falls in September or October, when it’s cooler and skies are usually clear. Families gather for mooncakes and lanterns. Parks and rivers light up with decorations.
Soon after is the National Day Golden Week from October 1–7. It’s one of China’s busiest travel times, with parades, patriotic displays, and big crowds at attractions.
If you visit then, expect higher hotel prices and tight train and flight bookings. Reserve months ahead if possible.
Even with the crowds, autumn is great for seeing Nanjing’s foliage at Purple Mountain or Mochou Lake Park—they look amazing in October. The mix of festivals and natural beauty really makes autumn stand out.
Outdoor Activities and Popular Attractions
Nanjing’s weather shapes how you enjoy the city’s parks, rivers, and historic sites. The cool, dry months are best for walking and sightseeing. Warmer, wetter times are better if you love flowers, lakes, and shaded outdoor hangouts.
Best Outdoor Activities by Season
In spring, cherry blossoms and plum flowers pop up all over the city. You might wander along the City Wall or hop in a boat on Xuanwu Lake to soak up the fresh air and all those colors.
The mild weather makes climbing Purple Mountain pretty comfortable too. Honestly, spring just feels alive.
During summer, people usually head outside in the early morning or after sunset. Try a shaded stroll along the Qinhuai River or wander through the gardens at the Presidential Palace.
The heat and humidity can get tough, so stick to light activities and take indoor breaks when you need them.
In autumn, cooler air and blue skies draw hikers outside. Qixia Mountain bursts with red maple leaves, and Jiming Temple shows off its golden ginkgo trees.
Outdoor festivals and flower shows pop up everywhere this time of year.
Winter gets chilly, but you still have options. Walking through the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum grounds after a light snow feels peaceful and quiet.
Lantern shows near the Confucius Temple area add a bit of magic to cold evenings.
Top Sites to Visit for Weather-Related Beauty
Xuanwu Lake really changes with the seasons. In spring, sakura and begonias surround the water. In autumn, you’ll spot chrysanthemums along the paths.
The Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum looks its best in late October. The forest around it turns yellow and red, and the stone statues along the paths stand out in the crisp air.
At Jiming Temple, spring brings cherry blossoms, and fall brings golden ginkgo leaves. From the temple’s high ground, you get a sweeping view of the city and lake.
The Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum on Purple Mountain feels nicest in spring and autumn. The climb stays shaded, and the air feels fresher, which makes the walk easier.
The Qinhuai River is especially pleasant at night during summer. Cool breezes and lantern reflections make evening boat rides a favorite warm-weather activity.
Travel Tips for Visiting Nanjing in Different Weather
Nanjing’s climate shifts a lot—hot, humid summers, cold, damp winters, and mild stretches in spring and autumn. To stay comfortable, plan what to pack and when to book based on the city’s seasonal patterns and travel demand.
Packing Essentials for Each Season
In spring (March–May), temperatures climb but can swing fast. Pack layers—light sweaters, long sleeves, and a medium coat. You’ll want a compact umbrella since rain pops up often.
During summer (June–September), the heat and humidity can be rough, especially in July. Bring light cotton clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A portable fan or cooling towel is handy for walks.
June and July bring lots of rain, so waterproof shoes or sandals make sense.
For autumn (October–November), the weather cools down and dries out. Many say it’s the best time to visit Nanjing. Pack light jackets, thin sweaters, and comfy walking shoes. A scarf helps if the temperature drops in the evening.
In winter (December–February), the cold and damp can feel harsher than the numbers suggest. Bring a down jacket or padded coat, warm sweaters, gloves, and thick pants. Waterproof footwear comes in handy if there’s snow or icy rain.
Here’s a quick reference:
| Season | Key Items |
|---|---|
| Spring | Layers, umbrella |
| Summer | Light clothes, sun protection, rain gear |
| Autumn | Jacket, sweater, scarf |
| Winter | Down coat, gloves, waterproof shoes |
Booking Advice Around Peak Periods
People visit Nanjing all year, but tourism really ramps up in spring and autumn. Those months usually have the nicest weather, so hotels and flights tend to fill up fast. It’s smart to book at least a few weeks ahead.
The National Day Golden Week (October 1–7) draws huge crowds across China. Nanjing’s historic sites and hotels get packed, and prices shoot up. If you’re planning to go then, grab your accommodations and train tickets as soon as you can.
In summer, the heat keeps a lot of international travelers away. But local families travel more during school holidays. You might spot some lower hotel prices, though attractions can still feel busy.
Winter feels quieter overall. The exception is Chinese New Year, when domestic travel suddenly spikes. If you want to dodge crowds and save some cash, late winter—outside the holiday rush—might suit you best.