Chengdu Weather in October

October marks the arrival of autumn in Chengdu, bringing a refreshing change to the city's weather. Temperatures begin to drop, and while there are more rainy days than in summer, most showers are light and short-lived — the sunshine quickly dries up the moisture. The air feels fresh and crisp, and visibility improves, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and photography.

This season also paints Chengdu and its surroundings in warm autumn hues. From the golden ginkgo trees in city parks to the colorful forests in nearby mountains, the scenery is simply stunning. It’s strongly recommended to take a hike in Chengdu's surrounding areas.

Average October Weather in Chengdu

• Average Temperature: 17° Celsius
• High Temperature: 27° C
• Low Temperature: 15° C
• Rainfall: 50 Millimeters
• Humidity: 63%
• Rainy Days: 10
• Average Sunrise Time: 07:55
• Average Sunset Time: 18:45

What to Wear in Chengdu in October

Clothes

Inner Layer - Opt for a long-sleeve cotton T-shirt, lightweight knit top, or modal base layer. These breathable and soft fabrics are ideal for daytime temperatures around 20°C — keeping you comfortable without feeling bulky under outerwear.

Middle Layer - Lightweight sweaters or loose sweatshirts are perfect for layering. They provide just the right amount of warmth during cool mornings, evenings, or rainy days, while still allowing easy movement. On sunny afternoons, the middle layer alone is usually enough to stay cozy and comfortable..

Outer Layer - Bring a light jacket to handle cooler weather and the occasional drizzle. A windproof denim jacket, thin trench coat, or short suede jacket are all good choices for city sightseeing. If you're heading to higher altitudes such as Mount Qingcheng, a waterproof shell jacket is recommended to protect you from wind, rain, and temperature drops.

Trousers and Skirts

Straight-leg jeans, cotton casual pants, or lightweight dress pants are all excellent choices — durable, versatile, and comfortable for both sightseeing and leisurely strolls through Chengdu's streets. They also offer just the right level of warmth for the city's mildly cool autumn weather.

For women, lightweight wide-leg pants or long skirts paired with thin leggings or skin-tone thermal tights strike a perfect balance between style and comfort. When styled with a knit cardigan or a trench coat, the outfit feels effortlessly elegant and season-appropriate.

Try to avoid pants that are too thin, as Chengdu’s damp air can feel chilly on rainy days. It's also best to skip tight-fitting styles, which can become uncomfortable during long hours of walking or exploring.

Footwear

Opt for shoes with good slip resistance, such as sneakers, casual shoes, or low-cut Martin boots. They provide stability on wet or uneven roads and help reduce foot fatigue during long walks. For light, continuous rain, consider carrying waterproof shoe covers — they’re lightweight, easy to use, and keep your shoes dry and clean.

Avoid wearing high heels or leather shoes, as they can be slippery on wet surfaces and are difficult to maintain in Chengdu’s humid, rainy autumn weather.

Accessories

A foldable umbrella or a lightweight, packable raincoat is a must for Chengdu's October weather, when light rain or brief showers are common.

A thin wool or silk scarf will keep you warm during cool mornings and evenings while adding a refined touch to your outfit. If you’re sensitive to wind, consider bringing a baseball cap — it offers light rain protection and doubles as a sun shield on clear days.

Because humidity is often high, it's useful to carry a pack of tissues or a small towel to wipe your hands or shoes when needed. Although October's UV rays aren't particularly strong, applying a light sunscreen is still recommended if you’ll be spending long hours outdoors.

Is October a perfect time to visit Chengdu?

Yes, to some extent, October is one of the best times to visit Chengdu and its surrounding areas. The weather is pleasantly mild — neither too wet nor too dry — creating ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. The autumn colors are at their peak, with golden leaves blanketing the city’s parks and countryside. In higher-altitude destinations such as Daocheng and Yading, the scenery becomes especially breathtaking, as vibrant forests and clear blue skies create stunning contrasts.

Although the beginning of October sees a surge of visitors due to the National Day holiday, tourist numbers drop significantly afterward, making it a much quieter and more enjoyable time to travel. Accommodation prices also decrease after the holiday period, offering great value for travelers.

What to Do in Chengdu in October

Daocheng and Yading

Daocheng and Yading reach their most beautiful season in October, when the valleys glow with golden forests and snow-capped peaks shine under clear skies. It’s recommended to spend two or three days exploring this breathtaking area.

On the first day, take a relaxing five-hour hike from Chonggu Temple to Pearl Lake. On clear days, you can see the stunning reflection of Mount Xiannairi, one of Yading’s three sacred peaks, mirrored perfectly on the lake’s surface.

On the second day, hike from Luorong Pasture to Milk Lake and Five-Color Lake — two of the most iconic sights in Yading. The trail ascends from about 4,300 meters to 4,700 meters in elevation, so take it slow and rest as needed. If you feel uncomfortable due to the altitude, sightseeing vehicles are available for part of the journey. Check out the tour package including Daocheng and Yading.

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Mirror-like lakes and colorful mountains make autumn the most enchanting season in Jiuzhaigou Valley. Among all its sections, Rize Valley is the highlight in October. The lakes here shine like emerald mirrors, perfectly reflecting the golden maple leaves along the shores. Many visitors find themselves completely captivated by this dreamlike scenery.

The largest lake in Jiuzhaigou sits in Zechawa Valley. In October, its waters deepen into a rich sapphire blue, allowing the distant snow-capped peaks to appear clearly on the surface. The combination of high-altitude mountains, still water, and brilliant autumn colors creates one of the most unforgettable sights in Jiuzhaigou. Check out 3-Day Jiuzhai Valley Fairyland Tour from Chengdu.

Planning to visit Chengdu in Ocotber? Feel free to contact us — we’ll be happy to assist you with your trip! Plan to visit Chengdu in October? Feel free to contact us if you need assistance.