Chengdu Weather in September

September marks the beginning of autumn in Chengdu. Temperatures start to drop, and rainfall becomes more frequent. Yet on some days, the sun returns suddenly, making it feel as if summer has come back. Fortunately, the next round of rain quickly washes away the lingering heat. By the last ten days of September, the weather turns noticeably cooler, and it’s clear that summer won’t return until next year.

Average September Weather in Chengdu

• Average Temperature: 21° C
• High Temperature: 30° C
• Low Temperature: 17° C
• Rainfall: 80 Millimeters
• Humidity: 80%
• Rainy Days: 20
• Average Sunrise Time: 07:18
• Average Sunset Time: 18:16

What to Wear in Chengdu in September

Clothes

Inner layer - Choose a cotton short-sleeve T-shirt, a lightweight long-sleeve shirt, or a modal base layer. During early September’s warm spell, a short sleeve is usually enough. From mid to late September — or on cool mornings, evenings, and rainy days — layer these pieces under a light jacket. They’re breathable, comfortable, and won’t trap sweat.

Middle layer - Lightweight knit cardigans, loose sweatshirts, and thin denim jackets work well as transitional layers. Wear them during rainy weather or when temperatures dip in the mornings and evenings. As the day warms up around noon, you can easily slip them off, making them ideal for September’s fluctuating temperatures.

Outer layer - A lightweight waterproof jacket, such as a thin shell jacket or a soft windbreaker, is recommended to handle frequent showers and prevent getting wet and chilled. If you’re sensitive to wind, a flowy lightweight trench coat is a great alternative — it blocks wind while keeping your outfit stylish.

Trousers and Skirts

Lightweight jeans, cotton casual pants, and wide-leg trousers are breathable, comfortable, and durable — perfect for long days of sightseeing or exploring Chengdu’s food streets.

For women, midi skirts or dresses paired with thin leggings are a practical choice for early mornings and evenings. They stay comfortable when temperatures rise during the day while offering just enough warmth when it gets cooler. Styled with a knit cardigan, the outfit feels both elegant and effortless.

Try to avoid heavy or tight-fitting pants, as early-September humidity can make them cling uncomfortably. It’s also best to skip very light or easily stained fabrics — with wet and occasionally slippery roads on rainy days, mud splashes are more common.

Footwear

Wear breathable sneakers, casual skate-style shoes, or low-cut canvas shoes — all of these are comfortable for long walks and well-suited for days filled with sightseeing. They offer good grip on damp roads and won’t cause fatigue during extended strolls.

It’s also helpful to carry a pair of waterproof shoe covers to keep your footwear dry during sudden showers or light rain.

Try to avoid high heels and leather shoes, as they tend to be slippery on wet surfaces and can be difficult to maintain in Chengdu’s rainy September weather.

Accessories

A foldable umbrella or a lightweight, packable raincoat is essential in September, as showers are frequent and can arrive without warning. During early September's heat, UV rays remain strong, so bring a baseball cap or bucket hat and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen to protect your skin during long periods outdoors.

Since humidity is high on rainy days, carry a pack of tissues or a small towel to wipe your hands or shoes when needed. It’s also helpful to keep a thin scarf with you — it provides quick warmth during early mornings, late evenings, or inside air-conditioned indoor spaces.

Is September a perfect time to visit Chengdu?

Yes, September is one of the best months to visit Chengdu. The city and its surrounding areas become noticeably cooler as rainfall increases, making outdoor activities much more comfortable. Since most students in China return to school at the end of August, tourist numbers drop sharply in September, giving visitors a quieter and more pleasant travel experience.

In addition, the International Panda Festival takes place in September. This is the perfect time to see the adorable newborn panda cubs, usually born between June and August. If possible, plan your visit within the first 20 days of September — the last week of the month leads into the National Day holiday starting on October 1st, when hotel prices often rise and attractions become more crowded.

What to Do in Chengdu in September

Jiuzhaigou Valley

Jiuzhaigou Valley enters its stunning autumn season in September, making it one of the best times to visit. The Zhechawa, Rize, and Shuzheng Valleys are the three must-see areas, each offering breathtaking views of turquoise lakes, colorful forests, and cascading waterfalls.

To avoid crowds, it’s recommended to begin your visit early in the morning. In September, the water levels in the lakes are typically high, creating mirror-like reflections. The deep blue water paired with the red and golden autumn leaves creates scenery so beautiful it looks like a painting. Check out 3-Day Jiuzhai Valley Fairyland Tour from Chengdu.

Chengdu Giant Panda Base

Located at an altitude of 583 meters, the Chengdu Giant Panda Base sits on one of the highest points in Chengdu, making the temperature there noticeably cooler. Pandas enjoy cool weather, so they tend to be more active and playful in September — a great time for visitors to observe their lively behavior.

In addition to seeing the adorable pandas, visitors can also enjoy distant mountain views from the base, adding to the overall experience. Check out 4-Day Panda Keeper Program and Chengdu Highlights Tour

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