Winter in Shanghai brings a cool, damp season that feels totally different from those muggy, blazing summers. Daytime highs usually hover around 8°C (46°F), and nights often dip close to 0°C (32°F), but snow? That’s a rare treat. Humidity makes the air bite harder than the numbers suggest, so you might shiver a bit more than you’d expect when you’re out walking.
You’ll see shorter days, plenty of clouds, and fog that creeps in more often than not. Rain isn’t heavy, but the dampness means you’ll want to bundle up. The weather might not win any awards, but with fewer tourists and the city buzzing around Chinese New Year, winter gives Shanghai a vibe you won’t get any other time.
If you’re planning a winter trip, it helps to know what December through February really feels like. Daylight hours are limited, so timing your outings matters. With some prep, you can catch both the traditions and the city’s modern side, minus the summer crowds.
Overview of Winter in Shanghai
Shanghai’s humid subtropical climate brings cool to cold days, damp air, and a sky that’s often gray. As winter rolls from December to February, you’ll notice shifts in temperature, daylight, and rain.
Typical Winter Weather Patterns
Chill settles in mostly because of the dampness and all those overcast days. Cold winds sweep down from the north, making things feel a bit less cozy than in autumn.
Clouds pile up as winter deepens. Early December sometimes surprises with a clear day, but by February, gray is the new normal. Rain picks up a bit toward the end of the season, while snow barely makes an appearance.
After the winter solstice, daylight starts to stretch out. December barely gives you over 10 hours of light, but by late February, you get more than 11. Even if it’s still cold, this gradual change shifts the mood a little.
Seasonal Temperature Ranges
You’ll see winter daytime highs between 45°F and 51°F (7°C to 11°C). Nights often fall to 35°F to 39°F (2°C to 4°C). Mid-January usually marks the coldest stretch, with highs around 45°F (7°C).
Freezing temps aren’t unheard of, but they’re not the norm. Lows rarely drop below 27°F (-3°C). Snow? Almost never, and if it does fall, it’s gone before you know it.
Compared to the furnace of summer—July highs can hit 90°F (32°C)—winter feels crisp, but not brutal. Being near the coast keeps extremes in check, so it’s cold but not punishing like northern China.
Humidity and Precipitation in Winter
Humidity hangs around 70–75%, making the cold feel sharper. Dampness sneaks inside too, especially when the sky stays gray.
Rain picks up as winter goes on. Early December might bring about 1.5 inches (38 mm) for the whole month, but late February can double that. Most of it falls as light or moderate rain.
Snow is a long shot—less than a 1% chance. So, don’t count on a winter wonderland. Instead, you’ll get drizzle, clouds, and the occasional gusty breeze. Layer up, and keep a waterproof jacket handy if you’re heading out.
Monthly Breakdown: December, January, February
Winter in Shanghai means cold, damp air and steady humidity. Daylight hours shrink. Temperatures don’t usually plummet compared to the north, but the moisture makes it feel colder, especially when the sky stays stubbornly gray. Rain falls less than in summer, but you’ll still get your share of wet days.
December Weather Highlights
December kicks off the coldest stretch. Highs reach about 11°C (52°F), and lows drop to 4–5°C (40–41°F). The dampness exaggerates the chill, especially when the wind picks up.
Rainfall stays on the low side, around 44 mm (1.7 in) for the month. Snow is a unicorn, but drizzle and low clouds show up a lot. You’ll get about 10 hours of daylight.
Humidity hangs around 70%, so even indoors can feel chilly if it’s not heated. Sea temps drop to 12°C (54°F), making waterfront walks brisk.
December draws fewer tourists, and the city feels festive. If you’re exploring the Bund or wandering markets, bundle up.
January Weather Highlights
January stands out as the coldest month in Shanghai. Highs average around 8°C (46°F), and lows hit about 2°C (36°F). The damp cold can sneak into your bones, especially since many places don’t have central heating.
Rain stays low, with 45–50 mm (1.8–2 in) for the month. Snow’s rare, but you might spot a light frost in the mornings. Sunshine is scarce—less than 4 hours a day.
Humidity holds steady between 70–74%, adding to the chill. North winds sometimes bring sharper cold spells, but nothing like what you’d get farther north.
If you’re visiting in January, indoor spots like museums, tea houses, or malls are a good bet. Don’t forget insulated clothes, gloves, and a scarf if you’re braving the outdoors.
February Weather Highlights
February nudges temperatures up a bit as winter backs off. Highs climb to 10–11°C (50–52°F), and lows stick near 4–5°C (39–41°F). The difference from January is small, but you’ll notice it.
Rainfall averages 55–60 mm (2.1–2.3 in), so it’s still not a washout. Days stretch past 11 hours of daylight by late February. Sunshine remains limited, but it’s a touch better than in January.
Humidity stays close to 70%, so the air feels damp. Sea temps hover around 9°C (48°F), and the waterfront stays brisk.
If you swing by in February, you might catch Chinese New Year—the city comes alive with celebrations and crowds. Bring layers and a waterproof jacket for the chilly mornings and the odd rainy spell.
Cloud Cover, Sunshine, and Daylight Hours
Winter in Shanghai means shorter days, heavier cloud cover, and not much direct sunshine. From December through February, daylight feels scarce, and the sky rarely clears up.
Typical Cloudiness in Winter
Clouds just keep rolling in as winter goes on, turning the sky gray and heavy. December sometimes offers a mix of partly cloudy days, but by January and February, mostly cloudy is the norm.
Cloud cover jumps from about 28% in early winter to nearly 47% by late winter. You’ll notice daylight feels dim, and clear days are rare as the season drags on.
These gray conditions can make visibility tricky, especially with haze or mist in the mornings. Heavy fog doesn’t show up every day, but when it does—especially near the Huangpu River—it can really cloud things up. If you’re a photographer, you’ll get soft light, but don’t expect many bright, sunny moments.
Average Sunshine Duration
Sunshine is at a premium in Shanghai’s winter. December averages about 4 hours and 27 minutes of sunshine per day. January slips to 3 hours and 58 minutes, and February bottoms out at 3 hours and 43 minutes.
So, the sun shines for maybe 34–39% of the day, and the rest is just cloud or haze. That lack of sun definitely adds to the chilly, damp feel.
When the clouds break, the sun sits low in the sky. Even at midday in December, it only climbs to about 35° above the horizon. No wonder the sunlight feels weak and shadows stretch longer than usual.
Daylight Hours and Seasonal Changes
Daylight shifts a lot in winter. The shortest day lands in late December, with just 9 hours and 58 minutes of daylight. In January, you get about 10 hours and 21 minutes, and by February, it’s up to 11 hours.
That’s an extra hour from December to February, but still a far cry from the 14-hour days in June.
Short days, a low sun, and constant cloud cover make winter light feel muted. If you’re planning to do stuff outside, aim for midday—at least the sun’s as high as it gets, even if it’s hiding behind clouds.
Precipitation and Snowfall Trends
Shanghai’s winter stays damp but avoids extremes. Rain shows up more than snow, and wet days feel extra chilly thanks to the humidity. Snow does fall, but it’s rare and barely sticks around.
Rainfall Patterns in Winter
Rain falls often in winter, but not in huge amounts. Data shows December through February brings about 40–60 mm (1.5–2.5 in) of rain per month. That’s a lot less than the summer monsoon, but enough to keep things wet.
You’ll get 8–11 rainy days each month. Most are just light showers or drizzle, not big storms. With the humidity, even small rains can feel pretty uncomfortable.
Rain usually falls on cloudy days with not much sun. Pair that with average highs of 8–11°C (46–52°F), and the dampness can make it feel colder than the thermometer says. An umbrella and waterproof shoes aren’t a bad idea if you’re heading out.
Snowfall Probability and Occurrences
Snow doesn’t visit often, since winter temps usually stay just above freezing. Records show average lows hover around 1–3°C (34–37°F)—not cold enough for regular snow.
When snow does fall, it’s usually just a dusting and melts in a few hours. Sometimes a cold snap from the north brings a bit more, but that’s rare and doesn’t last.
Don’t expect to see snow on the ground all winter. Most years, you might get one or two quick flurries—if that. If you catch snow in Shanghai, it’s more a novelty than a feature.
Wind, Air Quality, and UV Index
Winter in Shanghai brings steady winds, less sunlight, and air quality issues. Cold gusts, occasional fog, and a low UV index all shape how the city feels and how you’ll want to prepare.
Prevailing Winds and Gusts
Winds usually blow in from the north and northwest, carrying cold, dry air. The humidity makes these winds feel even sharper, even when it’s technically above freezing.
Some days, gusts get stronger, especially when a cold front rolls through. Most of the time, wind speeds stay moderate, but sudden bursts can make it feel colder fast.
You’ll notice wind chill in January and February. Even a 5–7 m/s wind can drop the “feels like” temperature by several degrees. Layering up and wearing a wind-resistant jacket is a smart move.
No typhoons in winter, but a strong northerly wind can still mess with your outdoor plans. If you’re going to be outside for a while, it’s worth checking the forecast for wind warnings.
Winter Air Quality Concerns
Air quality often drops in winter. More coal and energy get burned across eastern China, so fine particulate matter (PM2.5) builds up.
Fog and humidity trap pollution near the ground. You’ll spot hazier skies and lower visibility, especially in the mornings. Sensitive folks—kids, people with asthma—might feel it more.
Humidity around 70–75% can make the air feel extra heavy. When the air gets stagnant, pollution levels spike faster. Checking the daily Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading out is a good habit.
If pollution’s up, a mask and less outdoor activity can help. Many people run air purifiers at home during the winter months.
UV Index During Winter Months
Shanghai usually has a low UV index during the winter. Cloudy skies, shorter daylight hours, and the city’s northern location all help keep ultraviolet levels down.
Most winter days, you’ll see the UV index sitting between 0 and 2. That’s a low risk for skin damage, so you can skip sunscreen for quick trips outside.
But if you plan to stay outdoors for a while, especially around midday, it’s smart to put on some light sunscreen where your skin’s exposed. Wet streets or pale buildings can bounce a bit more UV your way.
Don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection. Even in winter, glare from the low sun can really bother your eyes. For most people, winter in Shanghai feels comfortable—plenty of daylight, but without the harsh UV you get in summer.
Travel Tips for Visiting Shanghai in Winter
Winter in Shanghai brings cold air, damp streets, and foggy mornings. You’ll need to plan your clothes, check out which events are worth your time, and sort out your travel in advance.
What to Pack and Wear
Expect chilly weather—lows near freezing, and highs only around 8°C (46°F). The dampness makes it feel colder, so layering is your best bet.
Pack a down jacket or padded coat. Toss in wool sweaters and thermal underlayers too. Warm trousers or lined pants beat thin jeans any day.
For shoes, go with water-resistant boots and thick socks to keep your feet dry and warm.
Accessories matter a lot. A scarf, gloves, and hat will block the wind. On foggy mornings, a face mask or muffler helps. It’s not a bad idea to carry some cold medicine, since the weather can make you more likely to catch something.
Popular Winter Activities and Events
You’ll find fewer tourists in winter, so sightseeing is way more relaxed. Entry fees and hotels often cost less, making it a budget-friendly time to come.
Some big festivals happen now. Chinese New Year lights up Yuyuan Garden with lanterns, fills Longhua Pagoda with temple fairs, and brings lion dances to Old City God Temple. These events let you experience local traditions up close.
Nature puts on a show too. Plum blossoms open at Century Park in late winter, and migratory birds flock to Dongtan Wetland Park. If you’d rather stay inside, Shanghai’s museums and tea houses are cozy places to pass the time.
Airports and Transportation During Winter
Shanghai has two main airports: Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG) and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport (SHA). Pudong mostly handles international flights, while Hongqiao focuses on domestic routes.
Winter weather doesn’t usually cause big flight disruptions. Still, fog might delay some departures now and then.
If you book flights earlier in the day, you’ll probably avoid most delays since mornings usually have better visibility.
For ground travel, you can reach the city from both airports by metro, airport buses, and taxis. The Maglev train from Pudong to Longyang Road is honestly the fastest way into central Shanghai.
In winter, it’s smart to allow extra travel time. During Chinese New Year, trains and buses get especially crowded, so plan ahead if you can.