Thinking about visiting Shanghai around Christmas? Get ready for cool, damp weather that bites a little harder than the numbers on the forecast might let on. Daytime highs usually hover near 11°C (52°F), but nights can dip down to about 2–5°C (36–41°F).
Snow hardly ever shows up, but the combination of humidity and wind makes the chill feel sharper. You’ll want to pack warm layers, trust me.
Most days bring overcast skies and the occasional light rain, plus daylight fades fast with sunsets before 5 p.m. The city doesn’t really get hammered by winter storms, but the damp cold just hangs around, especially along the Bund or other open spots.
This gives the city a unique winter vibe, one that really shapes your holiday experience.
If you know what to expect and dress accordingly, you can soak up Shanghai’s Christmas spirit without letting the weather ruin your plans. There’s plenty to see, from bright lights to cozy indoor events, as long as you’re ready for December’s climate.
Overview of December Weather in Shanghai
December brings cool temperatures, steady breezes, and shorter days to Shanghai. The damp air makes the cold feel more intense, and you’ll see less sunshine than usual.
The weather stays fairly steady, but you should expect cold nights and mostly cloudy skies.
Typical Temperature Ranges
In December, daily highs usually reach 10–12°C (50–54°F). Sometimes, colder days only hit 8°C (46°F), while milder days might sneak a bit above 12°C.
At night, lows often fall to 3–5°C (37–41°F). Snow’s rare, but you might spot some morning frost, especially further from the city center.
The damp air by the coast makes it all feel colder than you’d think. Mornings start off chilly, afternoons warm up just a bit, and then the temperature drops again once the sun goes down.
Bring layers—sweaters, a medium coat, and a scarf go a long way.
| Time of Day | Average Temperature |
|---|---|
| Morning | 4–6°C (39–43°F) |
| Afternoon | 9–11°C (48–52°F) |
| Evening | 5–7°C (41–45°F) |
Humidity and Wind Conditions
Average humidity in December sits around 70–72%—lower than summer, but you’ll still notice it. The dampness mixed with cold air can really make you shiver if you’re out for a while.
Rainfall isn’t heavy, only about 40–45 mm, and it’s spread across fewer than 8 days for the whole month. You’ll see mist or drizzle more often than real downpours.
Umbrellas are handy, but you probably won’t use them every day.
Winds play a big role in Shanghai’s winter. December brings northerly or northwesterly winds that blow in cold air from inland China. Wind speeds stay moderate, but gusts near the river or in open areas make the air feel even colder.
Daylight Hours and Sunrise/Sunset Times
December ranks as one of the darkest months in Shanghai. You’ll only get about 10 hours of daylight each day, compared to over 14 hours in the summer.
Clouds are a constant, so you might only see 4–5 hours of sunshine on average.
Near the winter solstice, the sun rises around 6:45–7:00 AM and sets close to 5:00 PM. With such short days, it’s smart to plan sightseeing earlier.
Even when skies clear up, the low sun angle keeps things dim, and evening falls fast. Streetlights and building lights start to define the city’s winter look, especially along the Bund and in busy shopping areas.
Weather Patterns During Christmas Week
Christmas week in Shanghai brings cold temperatures, damp air, and not much sunshine. Rain stays light, but humidity and wind make things feel colder than you’d expect.
Temperature Fluctuations Around Christmas
Daytime highs in late December usually land between 8°C and 11°C (46°F to 52°F). Nights drop to 3°C to 5°C (37°F to 41°F).
The numbers don’t look bad, but the dampness really turns up the chill. Old buildings don’t always have great heating, so you might feel cold even indoors.
Wind coming off the river or wide streets adds another layer of discomfort, especially after dark.
Pack layers—sweaters, a warm coat, and scarves are essential. Gloves and hats help if you plan to be out at night.
Snow’s rare, but you might wake up to frost on especially cold mornings.
Rainfall and Precipitation Chances
December stands as one of Shanghai’s driest months, with rainfall averaging 40–50 mm (1.5–2 inches). Rain falls on just a handful of days, and showers tend to be light.
During Christmas week, you’ll probably deal with drizzle or mist more than steady rain. An umbrella still comes in handy, since the dampness lingers even when it’s not actually raining.
Flooding or travel issues almost never happen in December. Still, wet ground and cold air can make sidewalks slick, so waterproof shoes or boots make sense if you’re walking a lot.
Cloud Cover and Sunshine Levels
Clouds rule the sky in December. You get maybe 3 to 4 hours of sunshine a day, which is about as little as it gets all year.
Days are short, with less than 10 hours of daylight, so there’s not much natural light.
Expect overcast or partly cloudy weather most days. The gray skies can make everything feel colder, especially early and late in the day.
On the rare sunny days, the city feels warmer and just more pleasant. If you can, plan outdoor activities for when the sun peeks through.
How Shanghai’s Winter Compares to Other Cities in China
Shanghai’s winter feels unique because of its damp chill and steady humidity, not to mention the lack of snow. When you stack it up against other Chinese cities, the differences in temperature, rain, and general comfort really stand out.
Geography, latitude, and the nearby sea all play a part.
Temperature Differences with Northern Cities
Shanghai’s winter temperatures usually run from about 2°C (36°F) at night to 11°C (52°F) during the day. That’s chilly, but it’s nothing compared to places like Beijing, Harbin, or Shenyang, where highs often stay below freezing and lows can sink to -15°C (5°F) or even lower.
Northern China has centralized heating, so you’ll stay warm indoors even when it’s freezing outside. In Shanghai, heating isn’t as common, so the damp air can feel colder indoors, even if the temperature isn’t as harsh.
You might find it easier to be outside in Shanghai than up north, but sometimes the inside chill in Shanghai is tougher to deal with.
Humidity and Snowfall Variations
Humidity is a big factor. Shanghai sits at about 70–75% relative humidity in winter, so the cold really seeps in.
Northern cities are much drier, often dropping below 50% humidity.
Snow almost never sticks around in Shanghai. You might see a flurry or two, but that’s about it. Up north, snow is a regular thing—Harbin, for example, gets so much that it hosts its famous Ice and Snow Festival.
If you like dry, crisp cold and snowy scenes, head north. If you’d rather deal with a milder but damper winter, Shanghai’s your spot.
Regional Climate Influences
Shanghai’s climate falls under the humid subtropical category, thanks to its spot near the East China Sea. The sea keeps temperatures from dropping too far, but it also brings in a lot of moisture.
Northern cities sit far from the ocean, so their continental climate brings sharper seasonal swings—colder winters, hotter summers. Elevation matters too, with places like Harbin and Inner Mongolia getting stuck with cold air for weeks at a time.
All this means you’ll get a damp, chilly winter in Shanghai, but nothing too extreme. Up north, winters are harsher, drier, and snowier, and people rely much more on heating.
What to Pack for Visiting Shanghai at Christmas
December in Shanghai is cold, with highs near 10–11°C (50–52°F) and lows around 2–3°C (35–37°F). The damp air and wind make it feel colder than you’d expect.
Layered clothing and the right gear help you stay comfortable wherever you go.
Recommended Clothing for December
You’ll need layers to handle the swings between day and night.
A medium to heavy coat is a must for sightseeing, especially after sunset. Lots of travelers go for a light down jacket or a wool overcoat—they’re warm without being bulky.
Pack sweaters, cardigans, or fleece tops to wear under your coat. Thin thermals or undershirts add warmth without taking up much room.
For pants, jeans or lined trousers work, but if you get cold easily, try thermal leggings underneath.
Heating indoors varies, so layers help you adapt as you move from the street to the metro to shops and museums.
Shoes should be closed-toe and sturdy—leather boots or insulated sneakers are great since damp streets make lighter shoes a pain.
Essential Accessories for Cold and Damp Conditions
The damp air in Shanghai makes moderate cold feel sharper. A scarf, gloves, and knit hat are simple but make a big difference.
Go for wool or fleece for better warmth.
Bring an umbrella or a compact rain jacket. December’s mostly dry, but drizzle still happens, and even a little rain makes the cold worse.
Don’t forget lip balm and moisturizer for dry skin caused by wind and indoor heating.
A small thermos bottle is nice to have for hot drinks during long walks.
If you’ll be outside at night, ear warmers or thermal socks help a lot. Small things like that really make a difference when it’s close to freezing.
Experiencing Christmas in Shanghai’s Weather
December in Shanghai feels damp and chilly, with highs near 11°C (52°F) and lows around 2°C (36°F).
The weather shapes how you enjoy holiday events and shopping, so planning your clothing and activities makes the whole trip better.
Outdoor Activities and Festive Events
Christmas in Shanghai doesn’t bring snow, but the damp cold and wind make evenings feel colder than you’d expect.
Wear a thick coat, scarf, and gloves if you’re heading out after dark.
People love gathering at The Bund to see the skyline all lit up for the holidays. Walking here in late afternoon is more comfortable since it’s warmer than later at night.
Shanghai’s churches, like the Holy Trinity Church, host Christmas services and concerts. Both locals and travelers show up, so you get a real mix of cultures.
Indoor attractions are a good way to escape the cold. For example, the Silver Seven Star Ski Site lets you try indoor skiing or snow play—pretty fun if you want a wintery activity without freezing outside.
Exploring Nanjing Road and Holiday Markets
Nanjing Road is easily one of Shanghai’s busiest shopping streets, and in December, the place just lights up. Stores throw up festive decorations and, honestly, you’ll spot plenty of discounts since there aren’t as many tourists braving the chill.
It’s cool outside, but if you time your walk for the warmer stretch between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., it’s actually pretty comfortable. Bring a few layers, though. Indoor heating can get intense, so you might regret wearing anything too heavy inside.
All over the city, holiday markets pop up selling seasonal snacks, quirky little gifts, and decorations. Most of these markets set up outdoors, so you’ll want to bundle up. The air feels damp, sometimes colder than the numbers on your weather app.
If you wander Nanjing Road in the evening, you get the best of both worlds: shopping and those glowing displays everywhere. With festive lights, crisp air, and fewer crowds, December feels like a surprisingly good time to soak up Shanghai’s holiday vibe.
Travel Tips for December Weather in Shanghai
December in Shanghai can trick you. The thermometer might not look scary, but the dampness and steady wind cut right through. You’ll want to plan your day around the colder mornings and evenings, and think about clothes that keep you warm outside but won’t roast you once you’re indoors.
Best Times of Day for Sightseeing
Days are short this time of year. The sun doesn’t show up until after 6:30 a.m., and it’s already getting dark before 5:00 p.m. Early mornings and late nights? Those can get close to freezing.
If you’re aiming for comfort, pick the window between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. That’s when daytime highs usually hit 8–11°C (46–52°F). Walking along the Bund or checking out outdoor markets just feels better then.
Planning to see the city lights at night, maybe on Nanjing Road or by the Bund? Go for heavier layers. The river breeze makes it feel way colder. Once the sun’s down, indoor spots like museums or shopping centers start to look pretty appealing.
Staying Comfortable During Your Visit
Pack clothes you can layer. A thin sweater, warm trousers, and a thick coat usually work for most days.
When a cold snap hits, just grab a down jacket, gloves, and a scarf. That combo should keep you warm enough, honestly.
Most places have heating, but it’s not always as strong as you’d expect. Try not to overdress indoors, since you’ll want to adjust fast when you step outside.
I’d say a scarf or hat comes in handy for those sudden temperature swings. You can just toss one on and go.
The damp air makes the chill bite a bit more than you’d think. Waterproof shoes or boots really help when it’s raining—which, let’s be real, happens about 7 days in December.
Toss a small umbrella in your bag. Staying dry makes everything easier.