If you’re planning a trip to Guangzhou around Christmas, you’ll probably be glad to know the weather stays mild instead of freezing. Average daytime temperatures hover near 20°C (68°F), and nights cool down to about 10°C (50°F). Rain rarely shows up, and most days are clear, so you’ll get plenty of comfortable hours outdoors.
You can soak up the city’s festive vibe without dragging around a heavy coat or worrying about icy streets. The short winter days bring crisp mornings and cool evenings, but afternoons often warm up nicely.
This balance makes it easy to explore markets, parks, and holiday events without dealing with extreme weather.
Guangzhou offers one of the most comfortable Christmas climates in China, thanks to steady temperatures, low rainfall, and moderate humidity.
Typical Weather in Guangzhou During Christmas
Christmas lands right in the middle of Guangzhou’s mild winter season. You’ll get cool mornings and evenings, comfortable afternoons, and drier air than usual.
Rain might happen, but it’s not common, and sunshine hours are steady enough for plenty of outdoor time.
Daily High and Low Temperatures
Daytime temperatures in late December usually sit between 19°C and 22°C (66°F–72°F). That makes afternoons great for walking, sightseeing, or hanging out in parks.
At night, the temperature drops to 11°C–13°C (52°F–55°F). It’s not freezing, but you’ll want a light jacket or sweater after dark.
Guangzhou’s winters feel pretty mild compared to northern China. Indoor heating isn’t common, so packing layers is smarter than bringing a heavy coat.
Here’s a quick look at average temperatures:
| Time of Day | °C | °F |
|---|---|---|
| Afternoon High | 19–22 | 66–72 |
| Nighttime Low | 11–13 | 52–55 |
Weather Patterns and Variability
December falls right in Guangzhou’s drier season. Rainfall averages about 40 mm for the month, with only a few rainy days. So, odds are your trip will be mostly dry.
Humidity hangs around 60–65%, which feels pretty comfortable compared to the sticky summers. Skies alternate between sun and light clouds, so you’ll get some bright days and a few overcast ones.
Sometimes, cold fronts from the north push temperatures down to about 10°C (50°F). These dips don’t last long, and things usually warm up again within a day or two. Having flexible clothing helps you deal with these quick changes.
Comparison to Other Months
December is much cooler and less humid than summer. In July and August, Guangzhou often bakes above 33°C (91°F) with heavy rain and thick humidity.
Christmas brings mild air and fewer showers.
Compared to November, December feels a bit cooler, but still comfortable. January can get cooler, with nighttime lows near 8°C–10°C (46°F–50°F).
You avoid the summer heat and spring’s rainy season by visiting at Christmas, while still getting weather that’s easy to enjoy outdoors. Guangzhou’s flower markets and holiday displays really pop in this climate.
Temperature Trends in Late December
Late December brings mild winter weather to Guangzhou, with cooler nights and comfy afternoons. You won’t see freezing temperatures, but the swing between lows and highs means you’ll want to plan your outfits.
Average Christmas Day Temperatures
On Christmas Day, the average temperature in Guangzhou usually sits between 10°C (50°F) at night and 20°C (68°F) during the day. The daily mean lands around 15–17°C (59–63°F), which is warmer than most northern Chinese cities at this time of year.
Rain barely shows up, with only about 3–5 days of light showers in December. That keeps things pretty dry and pleasant for being outside.
Humidity averages 65–70%, which is much less than the muggy summer months.
Afternoons often feel warm if the sun’s out, while mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler. This makes Christmas week a good time for sightseeing without dealing with extremes.
Nighttime and Daytime Differences
The temperature difference between day and night stands out in late December. Nighttime lows can drop to 7–11°C (45–52°F), while daytime highs often reach 18–22°C (64–72°F).
You’ll want layers to stay comfortable.
A light jacket or sweater works in the early morning. By midday, short sleeves or a thin shirt are usually enough.
After sunset, temperatures dip quickly, so you may want to grab a warmer layer for evening walks.
Guangzhou’s subtropical climate means winters are short and mild, but the nights do get cool. Keeping these shifts in mind helps you enjoy both crisp mornings and milder afternoons.
Rainfall and Humidity Levels
December in Guangzhou shifts toward drier and cooler weather. Rain is less frequent than in summer, and humidity feels more manageable for outdoor plans.
Rainfall Amounts and Frequency
December is one of the driest months in Guangzhou. The city averages 25–35 mm of rainfall for the month, spread over just a few days.
That’s a big change from the heavy downpours of spring and summer, when monthly totals often pass 200 mm.
Rain tends to show up as light showers or drizzle—no big storms. You probably won’t face long stretches of wet weather, so sightseeing is easier.
Umbrellas or light rain jackets are helpful, but you likely won’t need them every day.
With less rain, December feels more predictable. Clearer skies make it easier to plan outdoor activities, and if you like dry weather, this is a great time to visit Guangzhou.
Humidity Trends in December
Humidity in Guangzhou hovers at moderate levels in December, much lower than the peaks of spring. Average relative humidity is about 68–70%, which is a relief compared to the 80%+ levels in April and May.
You might notice a bit of dampness in the air, especially in the mornings and evenings. Still, the cooler temperatures keep things from feeling oppressive.
Indoor spaces usually stay comfortable without constant air conditioning.
Lower humidity also means better visibility around the city. That can make exploring outdoor spots, riverfronts, or nearby mountains more enjoyable.
For many travelers, December’s humidity hits a sweet spot between comfort and the subtropical vibe of Guangzhou’s climate.
Sunshine, Daylight, and UV Index
Around Christmas, Guangzhou gives you mild winter weather with a mix of sunny and cloudy days. You’ll get a fair bit of daylight for outdoor activities, but don’t ignore the sun’s strength during peak hours.
Sunshine Hours and Cloud Cover
In December, Guangzhou averages about 252 hours of sunshine, or roughly 8 hours per day. That’s more than many winter spots in East Asia, so you’ll have a decent shot at clear skies.
Still, the chance of a sunny day is about 50%, so expect a mix of bright days and some clouds. Rain is rare, with only about 3 days of light showers in the month, so your plans probably won’t get washed out.
If you’re wandering through outdoor markets or along the Pearl River, the blend of sun and light cloud cover usually feels just right. Skies are less overcast than in spring, when rain and humidity ramp up.
Daylight Duration
Daylight hours in Guangzhou during late December average 10 hours per day. Sunrise comes around 6:50–7:00 AM, and sunset is close to 5:40–6:00 PM.
Winter days are shorter, but you’ll still have enough time to explore without rushing. Compared to summer’s 13-hour days, evenings arrive earlier, so plan any late sightseeing or outdoor dining before dark.
If you like evening walks, the city’s streets and parks stay lively after sunset, thanks to the mild winter air. Just remember, twilight is brief, and it gets dark fast once the sun dips.
UV Index and Sun Protection
Even in December, Guangzhou sees a UV Index of about 7, which counts as high. It’s lower than the summer extremes, but you can still burn after about 25 minutes of direct exposure without protection.
Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen, sunglasses, and light protective clothing if you’ll be outside for a while. The sun’s rays peak from 11 AM to 2 PM, so be extra careful then.
Guangzhou’s subtropical latitude means UV levels stay high year-round. If you’re sensitive to sunlight, carrying a hat or umbrella can help when you’re out sightseeing.
What to Wear and Pack for Christmas in Guangzhou
Guangzhou around Christmas usually brings mild days and cooler nights. You’ll want clothes that work for both the afternoon warmth and the evening chill.
Recommended Clothing
Daytime highs in December often reach 18–22°C (64–72°F), so light layers work well. A long-sleeve shirt or thin sweater with casual pants or jeans usually does the trick.
A light jacket is handy if you’ll be outdoors for a while.
Evenings and mornings drop to about 10–14°C (50–57°F). A medium-weight jacket, cardigan, or fleece keeps you comfortable when you’re outside.
If a cold front rolls in, temperatures can dip near 10°C (50°F), so bringing one warmer coat is a good idea.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for parks, markets, and riverfront strolls. Heavy boots aren’t necessary.
A scarf or light gloves can add a bit of comfort if you’re sensitive to chilly air.
Packing Tips for Weather Changes
December weather in Guangzhou is usually dry, but cold snaps can happen. Pack layered clothing so you can adjust to warm afternoons and cool evenings without hassle.
Here’s a simple list:
- T-shirts or long-sleeve tops for daytime
- Light to medium jacket for evenings
- One warmer coat in case it gets cold
- Scarf and gloves for extra comfort
- Comfortable shoes for walking
Rain is rare, but a compact umbrella can still come in handy. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses—the sun can be strong on clear days.
By mixing lighter and warmer pieces, you’ll be ready for whatever December throws your way.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Guangzhou’s mild winter weather makes December a great time to get out and enjoy the city. You can check out outdoor sights and festive celebrations without the biting cold you’d find further north.
Outdoor Activities in December
Daytime temperatures usually range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), so you can walk around comfortably with just a light jacket. Rain rarely interrupts, making parks and riverfronts inviting.
The Pearl River waterfront is a favorite spot for evening strolls. Clear skies often give you great views of the Canton Tower, which lights up beautifully at night.
If you’re into nature, the Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area has hiking trails with city views. The mild climate keeps the paths dry and safe.
For families, the Chimelong Tourist Resort offers theme parks, a safari park, and entertainment shows. December crowds are lighter than in summer, which makes visiting a lot more relaxed.
Christmas Celebrations and Local Culture
Christmas isn’t a public holiday in Guangzhou, but you’ll still notice it almost everywhere in the city. Shopping centers like TeeMall and Grandview Mall put up huge trees, lights, and all sorts of seasonal displays.
These spots get packed with people looking for sales or just soaking up the festive atmosphere. It’s honestly a bit surprising how lively things get.
You might want to check out the Christmas markets too. Vendors at places like Yide Road Market and Lingnan Flower Market offer ornaments, toys, and plenty of local crafts.
Hotels and international restaurants usually roll out special Christmas buffets or set menus. If you’re hoping to eat at a big hotel like the Four Seasons or Hilton, definitely make a reservation—they fill up fast.
If you’re looking to attend a service, several historic churches in Guangzhou open their doors on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The Sacred Heart Cathedral and Guangxiaotang Christian Church tend to draw the biggest crowds.