Best Time to Visit Guangzhou: A Complete Month-by-Month Weather & Travel Guide

Written by Natalia | Updated January 02,2026

Guangzhou is a bustling coastal port in China’s south. Geographically, it is divided into the maritime subtropical monsoon climate zone. One important thing to know before visiting Guangzhou is that its weather is generally described as warm with abundant rainfall. Here we can experience four distinct seasons and each has its own characteristics.

Spring and autumn are relatively cool and pleasant, but frequent rain is expected in spring. Summer and winter give Guangzhou the image of a city of contrasts. It’s often hot and rainy in summer and typhoons attack this city from time to time. When it turns to winter, the temperature declines but is still rather mild with occasional drizzle.

If we only consider weather, the best time to visit Guangzhou is from September to December. However, when to go still depends on your personal preferences for weather, crowds, activities, and travelling purposes.

Read on to learn more detailed information about Guangzhou weather and climate, including its different seasons, monthly temperatures, best time to go for different purposes, etc.

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• Guangzhou Climate & Weather – Warm and Humid
• Guangzhou’s Best Travel Seasons at a Glance
• Month-by-Month Guide to Guangzhou Weather & Travel
• Guangzhou Weather & Travel Guide by Season
• Best Time to Travel to Guangzhou for Different Purposes
• When to avoid traveling to Guangzhou
• FAQs About Guangzhou Weather and Climate
• Plan Your Guangzhou Tour with Chinaxiantour

Guangzhou Climate & Weather – Warm and Humid

Guangzhou features a humid subtropical climate. Endowed with an average temperature between 21°C and 23°C (70°F and 73°F) and annual rainfall of 1,736 mm, it’s overall warm and humid all year long.

One most important point differs Guangzhou from others is its long and hot summer from April to September. During this time, rainfall frequently occurs, making the whole city very wet. Affected by the monsoon, typhoons and heavy storms may take place in July and August. Or have you ever heard of the “plum rain” season? Yes, you have a chance to experience it in Guangzhou if visiting, to be specific, from late April to mid-June. It consistently rains so that you may feel sweltering and damp. It is the high time that plums are getting ripe and hence the name.

By comparison, winter in Guangzhou is milder and drier with little rainfall. As the temperature keeps above the freezing, seldom does it snow. The transitional spring and autumn are short, with the most comfortable temperatures in a year.

Guangzhou’s Best Travel Seasons at a Glance

Overall Best Time: September to December

It’s a golden season perfect for exploring. Autumn approaches in late September, bringing the most pleasant days in Guangzhou. The hot and stuffy summer finally leaves. Air becomes clear and fresh again, with a significant drop in its humidity. The sunlight is no longer scorching either, instead, it is now pleasantly warm. There are light breezes in the morning and evening.

For all these reasons, you will feel very well in autumn in Guangzhou. The period usually lasts until December, the early winter in Guangzhou. As it is always sunny, blue skies are common. The high visibility contributes to favorable mountaineering and photographing advantages. The majority of vegetation still maintains green, but some begins to turn yellow. The mix of colors adds a special beauty to this city.

Related reading: Guangzhou Visa-Free Transit & Visa on Arrival Policies (2025 Guide)

Shoulder Season: March to April

If you would like to take a bet, March to April is also a nice time for your trip. The weather of Guangzhou in spring is just like a moody beauty. With good temperatures, the city begins to revive after a cold winter. The warm weather wakes the sleeping living things up and transforms the whole city into a garden with various kinds of blossoms, typically the common bombax flower, the symbolic flower of Guangzhou.

However, if the beauty is irritated, you have to suffer from bad weather known as Hui Nan Tian in Chinese. In this case, it may continuously rain and sometimes thick fog may occur. As a result, the air humidity can soar to over 95%. Water drips down the walls and ceilings and it’s almost impossible to dry your washed clothes. People may feel depressive and sticky in this weather. Nevertheless, it’s still one of the best seasons to travel for fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, as long as you are willing to take the risk.

Low Season: May to August

Guangzhou weather from May to August is not that ideal. It witnesses the hottest and wettest days throughout the year. The average monthly temperature ranges from 26°C to 29°C (79°F to 84°F), whereas the daily temperature often hovers around 35°C (95°F). As the humidity maintains at 80% or above, travelers may feel even more sultry. It rains often in Guangzhou in summer. Short-time heavy rainstorms and thunderstorms may occur unexpectedly.

July marks the beginning of typhoon season and September the end. For those who have never been to coastal cities before, this may present you with a unique experience. On the whole, May to August is not the best time to visit Guangzhou, but it offers an opportunity for budget travelers to get immersed in the city’s vibrant, steamy summer energy at a lower cost.

Winter Season: January to February

Guangzhou stands out in winter from January to February for its warm weather. It provides you with a shelter from the harsh northern winter. At an average temperature between 18°C and 22°C (64°F and 72°F), think how cool and pleasant it is! On sunny days, the temperature may rise higher in the afternoon so that you may feel even warmer. In comparison, it is colder in the morning and at night, or on overcast days.

Winter is the driest season in Guangzhou, but the average humidity lingers over 70%. You may encounter continuous drizzle and overcast skies. The Spring Festival annually falls in January or February, serving you a feast to eyes and stomachs.

Recommended Tour: 3 Days Guangzhou Historical and City Highlights Tour

Month-by-Month Guide to Guangzhou Weather & Travel

Average monthly temperature in Guangzhou

January in Guangzhou: Cool and Overcast

• Temp: 14°C / 57°F
• Weather: Moderate, little rainfall, sometimes overcast.
• Key Events: New Year, Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (date varies).
• Major pros:An escape from the cold winter in other cities; taste the most authentic New Year’s Eve Dinner; have fun in the Spring Festival flower fair; admire the New Year firework show.
• Cons:The Spring Festival Travel Rush begins from this month, leading to traffic jam and massive crowds.

February in Guangzhou: Lingering Winter Chill

• Temp: 15°C / 59°F
• Weather: Rising temperature, still cool and dry.
• Key Event: Lantern Festival.
• Major pros:An opportunity to get in touch with the traditional folk customs of Guangzhou during the Spring Festival; visit temple fairs; appreciate dragon and lion dances; savor sweet dumplings.
• Cons: Massive crowds; rocketing prices for hotels.

March in Guangzhou: Spring Blooms and Rain

• Temp: 18°C / 64°F
• Weather: The start of rainy season, humid and
• Major pros:A colorful world of spring blossoms; less crowds.
• Cons: Very humid; changeable weather with unexpected rain.

April in Guangzhou: Frequent Rain

• Temp: 22°C / 72°F
• Weather: The best temperature in one year; a lot of rain.
• Key Events: Spring Canton Fair(Apr. 15 to May 5), Qingming Festival
• Major pros:Suitable for outdoor activities like spring outing and viewing flowers; observe how locals worship their ancestors during the Qingming Festival.
• Cons: Frequent rain may disturb your itinerary; hotels may be hard to book for the swarming businessmen attending the Canton Fair.

May in Guangzhou: Sweltering With Storms

• Temp: 26°C / 79°F
• Weather: Muggy, frequent thunderstorms and rainstorms.
• Key Event: Spring Canton Fair(Apr. 15 to May 5)
• Major pros:Less crowds and lower costs.
• Cons: High temperature and humidity make you feel sticky; storms are obstacles for outdoor activities.

June in Guangzhou: A Month With Most Rainfall

• Temp: 28°C / 82°F
• Weather: Hot and wet, frequent rain and storms.
• Key Event: Dragon Boat Festival (date varies)
• Major pros:Watch dragon boat racing; enjoy Cantonese Zongzi.
• Cons: It rains almost every day; intolerable heat and humidity.

July in Guangzhou: The Hottest Month

• Temp: 29°C / 84°F
• Weather: The start of typhoon season, thunderstorms are often in the afternoon.
• Things to Do:Kill summer heat in Chimelong Water Park; feel the hustle and bustle in the night markets; take a night cruise on the Pearl River.
• Cons: Extreme high-temperature; intense sunlight, potential typhoon.

August in Guangzhou: Consistent Heat & Active Typhoon

• Temp: 28°C / 82°F
• Weather: Lingering heat; typhoon may occur often.
• Key Event: Qixi Festival (Double Seventh Festival)
• Major pros:Less crowds, low prices for accommodation.
• Cons: Affected by typhoon, scenic areas may be closed and public transport may be interrupted.

September in Guangzhou: Gets Cool Gradually

• Temp: 27°C / 81°F
• Weather: Typhoon season is about to end; it gets cool day after day.
• Key Event:Mid-Autumn Festival
• Things to Do:Taste mooncakes; feel the cheerful atmosphere during the Mid-Autumn Festival; go to the lantern fair and guess the riddles.
• Cons: The early days in September may remain hot.

October in Guangzhou: The Start of Prime Travel Season

• Temp: 24°C / 75°F
• Weather: Clear skies, low humidity. Ideal.
• Key Events: Autumn Canton Fair(Oct. 15 to Nov. 4), National Day Holiday (Oct. 1 to Oct. 7)
• Major pros: Excellent weather; climb the White Cloud Mountain; take a leisurely city walk.
• Cons: A mass of crowds; soaring prices of hotels and flights.

November in Guangzhou: Perfect Weather

• Temp: 20°C / 68°F
• Guangzhou Weather in November: golden autumn, stable sunny days, cool and dry.
• Key Events: Autumn Canton Fair(Oct. 15 to Nov. 4), Guangzhou International Light Festival (A major unique selling point for the city)
• Major pros:Reduce in the number of tourists; the pleasant climate suitable for a slow-paced travel.
• Cons: You may catch a cold due to the big difference between daytime and night temperatures.

December in Guangzhou: Mild and Pleasant

• Temp: 15°C / 59°F
• December Weather in Guangzhou: Though winter is coming, it is not freezing cold, but warm and pleasant, with little rain.
• Key Event: Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations, though not traditional, are lively in areas like Tianhe.
• Major pros:Abundant sunshine and comfortable temperature.
• Cons: You may feel wet and cold if attacked by a cold snap.

Related reading: How to Plan a Trip to Guangzhou

Guangzhou Weather & Travel Guide by Season

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a transition period from the winter wind monsoon to the monsoon, resulting in a complex and changeable weather. The overall temperature starts to rise, but fluctuates due to the influence of cold air. From April, the rainfall and humidity level increase steadily. In May, there are more stormy days.

What to wear

Layer clothing is the best choice, such as cotton bottoming shirt + thin sweater + wind-proof coat. As for shoes, it is required to be water-proof and comfortable.

Top Activities

Spring is the best time to appreciate the flowers in the parks and scenic areas. The pleasant temperature also offers good weather conditions for outdoor activities, such as having fun in Chimelong Tourist Resort and wandering along the historic streets or the Pearl River.

Summer

High temperature, high humidity and frequent rains are the main features of summer in Guangzhou. Though the average temperature is about 28 – 32 ℃, due to the high humidity, the sensible temperature can actually reach over 40 ℃. You will feel like in a large steamer. It is also undoubtedly the rainy season. The rainfall accounts for over 80% of the whole year with plenty of stormy weather due to typhoons.

What to Wear

During a summer tour, sun-proof, breathable and rainproof are the core strategies for clothing preparation. It is better to choose summer clothes made of natural materials, such as cotton and linen. These materials are basically light, breathable and moisture-wicking. Besides, prepare a pair of sandals and an umbrella.

Top Activities

In summer, water-based summer retreats are the best choices, including the Qingxi River National Forest Park and Bishui Gorge, etc. Another recommended activity is to plan an indoor culture tour to the museums.

Autumn

Autumn can be said to be the most comfortable season in Guangzhou. The overall trend of the weather is a transition from hot and humid to cool and dry. Only in September, it is relatively hot. From October, the rainfall decreases significantly and the weather is sunny and dry, making it a golden time for tourism.

What to Wear

In September, summer clothes are still the main choices during the daytime. Just prepare a light coat for the evening. In October and November, layered dressing should be adopted. It is recommended to wear a long shirt inside and a thin trench coat outside. Long pants or skirts and comfortable shoes are the best combination.

Top Activities

Autumn is a good season to explore both natural scenery and cultural charm of Guangzhou. Climb the Baiyun Mountain or Shimen National Forest Park to breathe the fresh air and enjoy the scenery. On the Gull Island, you can cycle around and go camping. If time permits, explore the nearby attractions, such as Gulong Gorge and Chaozhou Ancient City.

Winter

Located in southern China, Guangzhou boasts a warm and humid winter. Even in the coldest January, its average temperature remains between 10 – 15 ℃. But the weather is unpredictable. When the cold air from the north moves southwards, the temperature may drop to 5 ℃ for a short time. And the temperature difference between day and night is obvious, about 10 ℃.

What to Wear

The daily inner clothes can be long-sleeved T-shirts or thin sweaters. As for coat, the windbreaker, jacket, light down jacket or fleece jacket are recommended. Of course, a thin long johns and a warm padded coat should be packed in case of sudden cold days.

Top Activities

Hot spring bathing is a popular leisure activity in Guangzhou. Zengcheng and Conghua Districts are rich in hot spring resources. Hezhizhou Wetland Park offers a scene of interwoven red, yellow and green colors presented by the vast area of swamp cypresses.

Best Time to Travel to Guangzhou for Different Purposes

Best time to visit Guangzhou for sightseeing

October to the former half of December. You can expect the most beautiful and sunny days in Guangzhou. It is neither cold nor hot, perfect for outdoor explorations.

Best time to visit Guangzhou for the Canton Fair & business trips

The Canton Fair is held twice in a year, one in spring and another in autumn. Considering the possibility of frequent rain in April and May, I would suggest you to go in October. Ensure that you book round-trip tickets, hotels and business banquets in advance.

Best time for shopping

Many shopping malls begin to launch sales promotion from December and continue until the Spring Festival. You can enjoy amazing discounts if shopping during this time.

Related reading: Things to Do in Guangzhou

Best time for Guangzhou nightlife

Mid-October to the former half of December. As the weather is pleasantly cool, it’s kind of enjoyment either wandering around or sitting around a table and chatting with friends. When cruising along the Pearl River, the glorious lights on both banks are really impressive. Night snack stalls are also a magnet to travelers.

Related reading: Where to Stay in Guangzhou: District & Hotel Guide

When to avoid traveling to Guangzhou

Avoid the months between May and August as much as you can, particularly June and July. The temperature reaches over 35 ℃ during the time. With the influence of high humidity, you will be drenched in sweat very easily and are prone to heatstroke. It is also the typhoon season. It often rains suddenly and lasts for several days sometimes. The traffic and scenic spots may be closed. Another reason is the Labor Day Holiday and the China Import and Export Fair, both of which are in May. In March – April, Guangzhou undergoes continuous humid weather with a humidity level exceeding 90%. The walls and floors sweat and the clothes always stick to your body. It will affect your travel experience greatly.

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FAQs About Guangzhou Weather and Climate

When is the rainy season in Guangzhou?

The rainy season in Guangzhou usually starts from April and ends in September. During this time, Guangzhou receives over 80% of the city’s whole precipitation for one year. Heavy rainstorms are common to see from April to mid-June, while typhoon plays the major role from July to September. Though it is more destructive, typhoon affects this city only for a short time fortunately.

Does Guangzhou experience typhoons?

Of course. Although Guangzhou is not attacked frequently by typhoon like other coastal cities such as Zhanjiang and Zhuhai, it is affected to some degree. In the months from July to September, typhoon is the most active and very likely to happen. Typhoon does not come alone. It is usually accompanied by fierce wind and intense fall. In this case, you have to stay indoors and wait until it becomes quiet again.

How does Guangzhou’s climate compare to other cities in South China?

If your compare Guangzhou’s climate with other popular travel destinations in southern China including Shenzhen, Shanghai, Sanya, and Xiamen, you’ll find the most significant thing is that Guangzhou owns a longer, hotter and wetter summer. It is also warmer than others in winter except Sanya.

Should I avoid Guangzhou in summer due to the heat?

Yes, try to avoid visiting Guangzhou in Summer, but not just for the heat. You should also be careful about the frequent storms and typhoons. However, if you are on a tight budget, summer is the best time to visit Guangzhou for the lowest prices of hotels and flights throughout the year.

Is winter a good time to visit Guangzhou for sightseeing?

Absolutely. It’s a perfect time for outdoor activities thanks to the pleasant weather. As the New Year and Spring Festival is drawing near, a wide variety of festival celebrations are held everywhere. Do not miss the chance!

Is Guangzhou suitable to visit during Chinese New Year?

If you enjoy the lively atmosphere and authentic cultural traditions, no matter how much does it cost, Chinese New Year provides you with an excellent chance. Well, if you prefer to a quieter holiday, avoid travelling during Chinese New Year.

Plan Your Guangzhou Tour with Chinaxiantour

Are you planning for a Guangzhou tour now? Don’t hesitate to get a customized itinerary with local experts from Chinaxiantour, a professional online travel agency. We offer 24/7 online service for customers and are always ready to solve your problems. Out trusted tour guides can help you to avoid long queues and arrange the best schedule for you!