China Weather in August

Written by Fabio Updated Nov. 21, 2025

In August, most of China is at the peak of summer, with temperatures among the highest of the year and many regions entering their rainy season. However, high-altitude areas and northern grasslands remain cool, making them excellent choices for summer trips. For instance, destinations like Dali and Lijiang offer relaxing views of blue skies and white clouds, perfect for a refreshing summer getaway.

Should You Go to China In August

August is one of the best times to explore China! Thanks to the country’s vast landscape, you can always find the perfect summer escape. Whether you prefer cool, refreshing highlands and grasslands or you love the energy of hot, sun-soaked cities, China has a destination just for you.

From breezy mountain retreats to lively summer hotspots, August offers endless travel possibilities. Just keep an eye on typhoons and occasional rain in certain regions—and let the rest be pure adventure.

China Weather in August in the Northwestern Region

Overall, Northwest China is characterized by a dry climate and large temperature swings, with some areas experiencing occasional extreme weather. From a travel perspective, this means you can easily find destinations ideal for escaping the summer heat, while also enjoying the striking beauty of China’s classic dry-heat landscapes.

Around Qinghai Lake and the Qilian Grasslands, the temperature difference between day and night can reach 15°C. During the day, you can stroll through golden rapeseed flower fields and wide green meadows along the lakeshore. In the evening, as the cool highland breeze settles in, wrap yourself in a warm yak-wool shawl for a comfortable and authentic plateau experience.

Province or Autonomous Region	City/Scenic Area	Average Highest and Lowest Temperature	Rainfall	Air Quality
Qinghai	Qinghai Lake	25 ℃/8 ℃	73 mm	Excellent
Gansu	Jiayuguan	26 ℃/18 ℃	29 mm	Excellent
Gansu	Zhangye	28 ℃/14 ℃	13 mm	Excellent
Shaanxi	Xi'an	33 ℃/23 ℃	28 mm	Good
Xinjiang	Kashgar	31 ℃/19 ℃	13 mm	Good
Xinjiang	Urumqi	31 ℃/17 ℃	30 mm	Good

What to Wear in the Northwestern Part of China in August

Pack 2–3 quick-dry T-shirts along with one lightweight fleece or knit top for layering. In the evenings, add a windproof, waterproof shell jacket to stay protected from the plateau breeze.

For bottoms, bring two pairs of lightweight long pants—ideally quick-dry, mosquito-resistant, and warm enough for chilly nights. Avoid shorts, as temperatures can drop suddenly, and the terrain is often uneven.

A pair of anti-slip hiking shoes is essential for handling long walks in scenic areas and navigating varied mountain paths. Choose shoes with durable soles that offer good grip and can withstand sand and gravel.

China Weather in August in the Northern Region

In North China, August marks the tail end of summer, featuring hot, humid weather with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. However, the region’s plains and surrounding mountain areas offer noticeably different climates, making it easy for travelers to find destinations that match their preferred style of travel.

Province or Municipality	City/Scenic Area	Average Highest and Lowest Temperature	Rainfall	Air Quality
Beijing	/	29 ℃/23 ℃	160 mm	Excellent
Hebei	Chengde	30 ℃/21 ℃	145 mm	Excellent
Shanxi	Yungang Grottoes	30 ℃/23 ℃	90 mm	Excellent

What to Wear in the Northern Part of China in August

Pack 2–3 lightweight T-shirts made of cotton, ice-silk, or quick-dry fabric—light colors are best, as they reflect sunlight and keep you cooler in North China’s humid “sauna” weather.

Bring one ultra-thin sun-protective jacket made with foldable, breathable mesh material. It protects you from harsh midday UV and also works as a light layer in air-conditioned rooms or after sudden rain.

If you plan to hike the Great Wall or visit nearby mountain areas such as Xiangshan, include a thin knit cardigan for early-morning or evening temperature drops and windy hilltops.

For bottoms, pack one pair of quick-dry shorts or a skirt, plus 1–2 pairs of lightweight long pants. For footwear, bring one pair of breathable sneakers that are comfortable for long walks and suitable for uneven terrain.

China Weather in August in the Eastern Region

In August, East China is often controlled by a strong subtropical high, resulting in long stretches of sunny, scorching weather. Many cities experience 20 or more high-temperature days, and some areas can even exceed 40°C, creating a humid and intensely sweltering environment.

Rainfall is generally lower than average, though brief afternoon thunderstorms may pop up. At times, the outer bands of passing typhoons can bring short, temporary showers. Toward the end of August, occasional bursts of cold air may finally bring some relief from the heat.

Province or Municipality	City/Scenic Area	Average Highest and Lowest Temperature	Rainfall	Air Quality
Shanghai	/	35 ℃/28 ℃	140 mm	Excellent
Zhejiang	Hangzhou	38 ℃/27 ℃	200 mm	Excellent
Anhui	Yellow Mountain	36 ℃/28 ℃	180 mm	Excellent
Jiangsu	Suzhou	35 ℃/27 ℃	220 mm	Excellent

What to Wear in the Eastern Part of China in August

Choose lightweight, breathable, quick-dry T-shirts paired with shorts or thin long pants to stay comfortable in the heat. Add an ultra-light sun-protection jacket and a foldable umbrella or rain poncho to handle both intense sunshine and sudden showers.

Opt for breathable sneakers or anti-slip sandals for long walks, and don’t forget high-SPF sunscreen and insect repellent—perfect for full-day sightseeing and humid weather.

China Weather in August in the Southwestern Regions

In August, Sichuan is dominated by hot, dry weather, with temperatures noticeably higher than average and frequent heatwave days. Rainfall is significantly below normal.

Yunnan sees more cloudy and rainy days, with pleasantly cool temperatures—ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable summer escape.

Guizhou, by contrast, is notably warmer, and its August rainfall is far below the seasonal norm, though some areas may still experience heavy to torrential rain at times.

Province, Autonomous Region, or Municipality	City/Scenic Area	Average Highest and Lowest Temperature	Rainfall	Air Quality
Chongqing	/	34 ℃/25 ℃	153 mm	Excellent
Guizhou	Guiyang	28 ℃/20 ℃	100 mm	Excellent
Yunnan	Shangri-La	21 ℃/8 ℃	104 mm	Excellent
Yunnan	Xishuangbanna	31 ℃/21 ℃	300 mm	Excellent
Sichuan	Jiuzhaigou	31 ℃/17 ℃	180 mm	Excellent
Sichuan	Chengdu	33 ℃/24 ℃	310 mm	Excellent

What to Wear in the Southwestern Part of China

For daily wear, pack light, breathable T-shirts paired with thin long pants or flowy long dresses for maximum comfort. If you're visiting high-altitude areas, bring an extra fleece jacket or a lightweight shell to handle the larger day–night temperature differences and cooler evenings.

Choose comfortable, anti-slip sneakers for walking on mountain paths, and don’t forget sun protection as well as a compact umbrella or raincoat to deal with both the strong UV and the region's frequent showers.

Where to go in China in August

China becomes quite hot in August, so cooler destinations are the best choices for travel. Popular options include the Silk Road, Jiuzhaigou Valley, and Shangri-La in Yunnan Province. All three offer refreshing climates and stunning scenery, making them ideal places to visit in midsummer.

Silk Road

Qinghai Lake unfolds in shimmering layers of blue, its vast shoreline bordered by golden rapeseed fields in peak bloom. Wildflowers dot the surrounding alpine meadows, blending with the lake’s colors to create a picture-perfect summer scene.

At Chaka Salt Lake — China’s famed "Mirror of the Sky" — the water becomes perfectly still at dawn. In those quiet moments, the horizon disappears as the sky and earth merge into a single, dreamlike reflection.

In Zhangye, the Rainbow Mountains glow with even deeper hues under August’s bright sunlight. At sunset, their ridges turn fiery red, as if the hills themselves have caught flame. Nearby, Alien Valley reveals bizarre, sculpted rock formations that feel like a landscape borrowed from Mars.

Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake capture the pure magic of the desert. Ride a camel across sweeping sand dunes, then stay into the night to watch the Milky Way rise. On clear evenings, starlight reflects softly across both sand and water — a rare and unforgettable sight. Find surprise in our Slik Road tour packages.

Lijiang and Tiger Leaping Gorge

In August, Lijiang is at its most enchanting—cool, refreshing, and full of both natural beauty and cultural depth.

For nature lovers, Tiger Leaping Gorge reaches peak drama this month. Summer rains swell the Jinsha River, turning its currents fierce and thunderous. As you hike along the cliffs, the roar of the water and bursts of mist from crashing waves make every step feel raw and exhilarating.

Lijiang's cultural allure is equally captivating. Stroll the cobblestone alleys of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, admire classic Naxi wooden architecture, and explore The Waste Land—an imaginative art space where artists transform discarded objects into immersive, dreamlike installations. Spend four days exploring Lijiang and Magnificent Tiger Leaping Gorge.