China Weather in December

In December, China’s weather features a warm start followed by a sharp cooldown, with significantly lower precipitation nationwide. The climate varies greatly between regions: the north is cold with frequent snowfall, while the south tends to be warm, dry, and in some areas affected by persistent drought. In short, northern China becomes a paradise for winter outdoor activities, while tropical destinations such as Xishuangbanna and Sanya are ideal places to escape the cold.

Should You Go to China In December

December is an excellent month to travel in China. By this time, the National Day holiday crowds have faded, airfare and hotel prices drop back to friendly levels, and overall travel value is high. Weather-wise, December offers a unique “four seasons in one month” experience: you can chase late-autumn foliage and golden ginkgo, enjoy the first snow of early winter, or head south for warm, pleasant sunshine—perfect for travelers with different preferences.

China Weather in December in the Northeastern Region

In December, Northeast China is dominated by severe cold and consistently low temperatures, with a general downward trend as the month progresses. Snowfall is mainly concentrated in the western and parts of the central regions.

Overall temperatures remain extremely low throughout the month, with late December noticeably colder than early December. Snowfall is heavier in the west and lighter in the east, and some areas may experience heavy snow at the beginning of the month.

Wind conditions are relatively mild, mostly light northwesterly or southwesterly breezes at 2–3 on the Beaufort scale, and strong winds are unlikely.

What to Wear in the Northwestern Part of China in December

For traveling in Northeast China in December, prioritize "multi-layer insulation + windproof and waterproof protection."

In December, snow play is the highlight of visiting Northeast China, so your clothing should follow a multi-layer, heat-locking system that also allows enough flexibility for activities like walking on snowy paths and trying ice/snow attractions. A practical outfit looks like this:

Base Layer - Choose quick-dry thermal underwear made of fleece-lined synthetic fabric, merino wool, or similar materials. Avoid pure cotton, as it traps moisture and can freeze in sub-zero temperatures.

Mid Layer - Wear a thick fleece jacket or cashmere sweater. For the bottom, layer 1–2 pairs of thin fleece-lined thermal pants—this offers better mobility than a single very thick pair, especially when playing in the snow.

Outer Layer - Wear a long, waterproof, windproof down coat with at least 200 g of fill and 650+ fill power. Pair it with fleece-lined waterproof snow pants or down pants. If you plan on skiing, switch to professional ski jackets and ski pants.

Accessories - Wear an ear-covering trapper hat, a thick scarf, and a windproof face mask. Choose waterproof touchscreen gloves so you can take photos while playing in the snow. For footwear, opt for high-top waterproof snow boots with good traction, paired with thick wool socks; heated insoles or foot warmers can be added for extra comfort.

Also bring ice cleats for icy roads, anti-fog sunglasses to prevent snow blindness, and body warmers for your lower back, stomach, or knees to handle the harsh outdoor cold.

China Weather in December in Northern Region

In December, Northern China is fully into deep winter. The weather is generally cold and dry, with light winds and very little precipitation, and most days are clear and sunny. Occasional light snowfall may appear in some areas, and temperatures continue to drop steadily as the month progresses.

What to Wear in Northern Part of China in December

Wear a high-neck thermal base layer (merino wool or Derong fabric; avoid pure cotton) paired with a thick sweater or fleece. For bottoms, choose fleece-lined jeans or thermal pants to stay warm without feeling bulky.

For outerwear, choose a thick down jacket (≥200g fill, windproof and waterproof) or a wool coat with a windproof inner layer; knee-length styles are recommended for better leg warmth.

Accessorize with a knit hat that covers the ears, a thick scarf, and fleece-lined gloves (touchscreen-friendly for photos). Wear high-top thermal boots or snow boots with non-slip soles, and consider heated insoles.

Indoors, heating is strong, so bring a light jacket for switching layers. Because the outdoor air is dry, pack lip balm and hand cream.

If visiting the Great Wall, Chengde, or other windy outskirts, add a down vest or use heat patches (on the waist and knees) to better resist the strong winds.

China Weather in December in the Southwestern Region

Yunnan in December is generally cold and humid, with many overcast days, very limited sunshine, and occasional light rain. Snow and ice conditions are usually mild.

Guizhou shares similar characteristics — wet, chilly, and mostly cloudy, with scarce sunlight and some light rainfall, while significant snow or ice is uncommon.

Sichuan shows clear regional weather differences, following a "warmer in the south, colder in the north" pattern. High-altitude areas in western Sichuan, such as Jiuzhaigou and Daocheng Yading, are very cold, may see light snowfall, and experience large temperature fluctuations between day and night.

What to Wear in the Southwestern Part of China in December

Western Sichuan and Northwest Yunnan High-Altitude Regions - Wear a thick, quick-dry thermal base layer (preferably wool) paired with a heavy fleece or cashmere sweater. For the lower body, combine fleece-lined thermal leggings with waterproof, windproof ski pants or down pants. As your outer layer, choose a long, thick down coat (with at least 200g of filling and wind-resistant fabric); switch to professional ski wear when skiing or trekking.

Chengdu, Chongqing, Guiyang Basin and Hill Regions - Wear a thin thermal quick-dry base layer (velvety fleece or merino wool) with a thick sweater or fleece jacket, paired with fleece-lined jeans or thermal pants. Complete the outfit with fleece-lined short boots or non-slip sneakers, a scarf, touch-screen gloves for easy photos, and a compact umbrella for the humid, rainy conditions in Chongqing and Guiyang. Since indoor heating is limited, opt for outerwear that’s easy to put on and remove.

Xishuangbanna - During the day, wear a short-sleeve T-shirt or a light blouse paired with thin long pants or a breathable long skirt made from sun-protective, airy fabrics. Add a light outer layer—such as a knit cardigan or UV jacket—for cooler mornings and evenings. Pair your outfit with casual pants or a midi skirt, and choose sandals, canvas shoes, or white sneakers for comfort. 

China Weather in December in Eastern Region

In December, Eastern China is generally cold, damp, and dry, with noticeable temperature fluctuations and relatively little precipitation. Regional differences still exist: the northern areas are colder with occasional frost, while the southern areas are slightly warmer but experience a pronounced damp chill.

What to Wear in the Eastern Part of China in December

For Eastern China in December, wear a thin merino or thermal quick-dry base layer with a fitted thick sweater or fleece, paired with fleece-lined jeans or thin thermal pants (you can layer two thin pairs in damp, chilly regions). For outerwear, choose a windproof, water-resistant knee-length wool coat, lightweight down jacket, or long trench coat with a padded lining to improve warmth—avoid single-layer coats.

Opt for fleece-lined boots or sneakers with non-slip soles, plus a thick scarf and touchscreen gloves, and carry a compact umbrella for occasional light rain. Indoors usually lack central heating, so bring a thin cardigan for easy layering.

For Yellow Mountain, upgrade to a thick merino thermal base + heavy fleece or cashmere layer, with fleece-lined leggings and waterproof windproof ski pants or down pants. Wear a long, thick down coat (200g+ fill, windproof shell), and consider switching to ski wear for mountain hiking to block strong winds.

Essential accessories include a ushanka hat that covers the ears, thick scarf, waterproof insulated gloves, and high-top fleece-lined anti-slip boots for icy paths, plus hand warmers (waist/knees) and portable rain gear, as mountain areas often have rain or snow—keep clothes dry to avoid worsening the cold.

Where to go in China in December

In December, Northeast and North China hold the very essence of winter! Harbin’s glittering ice sculptures, the sweet aroma of Modern ice cream along Central Street, Beijing’s serene Forbidden City in winter, and the snow-kissed Great Wall together invite you to a magical seasonal journey — a winter feast where icy landscapes meet warm delights.

Harbin

Winter is Harbin’s shining season — an ice city transformed by swirling snow and breathtaking frozen art. At the 1.2-million-㎡ Ice and Snow World, massive ice structures, 3D light shows, and drone performances create a surreal winter playground. Sun Island’s Snow Expo showcases over 260 intricate snow sculptures, while the Songhua River Ice Carnival offers snowmobiles, karts, and plenty of frosty fun.

Ski lovers can head to Yabuli, home to 70+ slopes for all levels. The city itself feels magical: Central Street’s cobblestones glitter with thin snow, a Madieer ice pop is a must, and Saint Sophia Cathedral becomes a perfect snowy photo spot. Add penguin parades, Siberian tigers in the snow, and warming dishes like iron-pot stew and borscht — and Harbin’s winter becomes unforgettable.Enjoy the winter in Harbin by joining our 3-day Harbin Ice and Snow World Tour.

Beijing

Beijing’s winter carries a charm where ancient grandeur meets modern life. Snow blankets the glazed tiles of the Forbidden City, with red walls against white snow creating a serene imperial scene. At the Summer Palace, Kunming Lake freezes into a natural ice rink, and the “golden light through the Seventeen-Arch Bridge” becomes a rare winter spectacle.

The Great Wall, draped in snow, appears even more majestic — hiking along it feels like walking atop a frozen dragon. Shichahai ice skating captures old Beijing’s nostalgic winter spirit, while hot copper-pot mutton, sizzling barbecue, and candied hawthorn warm you up between adventures.

From art exhibitions in the 798 District to the industrial winter landscape of Shougang Park and the peaceful blessings at Yonghe Temple, Beijing’s winter blends deep history with playful, atmospheric charm. Find winter surprise with our 4-day Beijing royal relic and skiing tour.

China Weather by Month

• China Weather in January
• China Weather in February
• China Weather in March
• China Weather in April
• China Weather in May
• China Weather in June
• China Weather in July
• China Weather in August
• China Weather in September
• China Weather in October
• China Weather in November
• China Weather in December

You May Like to Read

• Best Time to Visit China
• Things to Know Before Visiting China
• China Winter Tour