Chongqing Weather 2024 & Best Time to Visit Chongqing
What is Chongqing weather like?
Chongqing, a subtropical inland city surrounded by mountains with distinguish four seasons, is generally warm, humid and foggy. The annual average temperature is 19.5°C (16°C-43°C) and throughout the year it has 100+ rainy days (1,000-1,400mm annual rainfall) and 100+ foggy days which makes it the “ capital of fog.”
The best time to visit Chongqing & taking Yangtze River Cruise
Chongqing is a great destination to visit year-round, as its key attractions—such as delicious cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and indoor activities—are not heavily influenced by the seasons. That said, no matter the season, there’s always something unique and enjoyable to experience in this dynamic city. However, to make the most of your trip, we recommend visiting Chongqing & Wulong and taking Yangtze River Cruise during Autumn (September to November) or Spring (March to May), when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer in Chongqing can be a bit muggy, while Winter, though relatively warm, is often foggy. If time allows, you should skip Chinese public holidays (i.e. Spring Festival, Labor Days, National Days, etc.) and summer school holidays (July~August). Below, we’ve provided detailed information about the weather throughout the year and the best activities to enjoy during each season, helping you plan the perfect Chongqing getaway.
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Chongqing Weather By Seasons
Chongqing Autumn (Sep. to Nov.)- Best Time to Visit Chongqing
The average temperature in Autumn in Chongqing is a comfortable 23 °C by day and 17 °C at night, with a total rainfall of 140mm and a humidity level of 70.3%. As the heat gradually diminishes, Autumn presents a pleasant climate that is neither too hot nor too cold, making it the ideal time to explore Chongqing's numerous attractions both indoors and outdoors. Be aware that during the National Day holiday (October 1-7), the city becomes very crowded, and hotel prices surge. Visitors are advised to steer clear of it.
You are highly recommended to take a Yangtze River Cruise from November in this period to December in Winter to witness the year' s most spectacular Three Gorges scenery - the trees lining the river turn into a breathtaking tapestry of golden and red leaves, offering a magnificent view of a fiery red world. Autumn is the also the best time to enjoy colors of Wulong Karst.
Recommended packing items:
Long pants, wind coats, light jackets, thin sweaters, sunscreen, and an umbrella.
Vibrant Hongya Cave at Autumn Night
Three Gorges in Midle November
Chongqing Spring (Mar. to May) - With Changeable Weather
In Spring in Chongqing, the average daytime temperature is 24.7°C, while at night it' s 16.5°C. The total rainfall during this season amounts to 148mm, with an average humidity of 60.7%. Chongqing is known for its misty and foggy conditions, and the weather in Spring can be unpredictably sunny or foggy, warm or chilly.
Despite occasional heavy fog, spring is generally a great time to visit all of Chongqing's attractions. In the downtown area, the pleasant weather makes a city walk highly recommended. Here, you can explore well-preserved ancient mountainous streets and buildings, immersing yourself in authentic local life. It's worth noting that temperatures in suburban mountainous areas, such as the Wulong Karst Geopark, tend to be lower than in the downtown area. Therefore, visitors planning a trip to Wulong should pack warmer clothing.
Recommended packing items:
Long-sleeved shirts, thick wind coats, thick sweaters, long pants, and an umbrella.
Ciqikou Ancient Town in Spring
Liziba Station in Chongqing Spring
Chongqing Summer (Jun. to Aug.) - Hot and Sunscreen-needed
Chongqing is called one of China's " three furnace cities" with an average temperature of 30°C and the highest reaching 44°C. Total rainfall is 258mm, and the humidity averages 68.7%. It's incredibly hot and muggy. However, there are plenty of summer resorts for visitors to have fun with. In downtown, summer brings a lively atmosphere and an opportunity to experience the city's bustling nightlife and vibrant street culture, especially in Hongya Cave and Jiefangbei CBD, and offers opportunities to enjoy the city's many indoor attractions, such as the Three Gorges Museum, shopping centers, light rail riding, etc. You're advised to try to explore other attractions in the early mornings and late afternoons rather than during midday.
For a refreshing escape in the suburb, Wulong Karst Geopark with an altitude of 2033m and an annual average temperature of 23°C, serves as an excellent summer retreat. Additionally, temperatures along the Yangtze River tend to be cooler than in the city center, so taking a Yangtze River Cruise is a delightful way to immerse oneself in nature during summer.
Recommended packing items:
Short-sleeved shirts, shorts or skirts, sun-protective clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, and an umbrella.
Wulong Karst Geopark in Summer
Shot from Nanbin Road at Dusk
Chongqing Winter (Dec. to Feb.) - Mild, Foggy and with Less Snow
The average winter temperature in Chongqing is 13.8°C during the day and 7.6°C at night, accompanied by a total rainfall of 25mm and an average humidity of 59%. Although it is the coldest season in Chongqing, snowfall is rare in Chongqing downtown. However, visitors to the Fairy Mountain in Wulong Karst Geopark may have the chance to enjoy a breathtaking snow-covered landscape and ski.
Winter in Chongqing, on the other hand, can be cooler and occasionally foggy, but it also offers a serene and peaceful ambiance that can be quite enchanting. Visitors during this season can try hot pot, and enjoy the city's hot springs and indoor activities. Additionally, it's highly suggested to watch the weather forecast to better plan your Chongqing trip.
Recommended packing items:
Warm sweaters, thick jackets, long pants, scarves, gloves, and an umbrella.
Viewing from Eling Park in Winter
Hot Pot in Chongqing Winter
Explore Chongqing and Yangtze River with Us
Not sure where to begin your Chongqing adventure? Looking for a top-notch Chongqing tour package? At Yangtze River Cruises (www.yangtze-river-cruises.com), with a local office right in Chongqing, we are your trusted travel partner. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city itself, taking a side trip to nearby wonders like Wulong Karst or Dazu, or boarding your Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing, we craft the perfect itinerary to suit your needs.
Our Chongqing tour packages include expert guides, experienced drivers with comfortable private vehicles, carefully selected hotels, and all necessary attraction tickets. Each tour can be fully customized based on your group size, travel dates, fitness level, interests, budget, and any special requirements you may have. Our goal is to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Chongqing. Browse our tours or contact us directly for assistance or to create a personalized itinerary!
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