December marks the beginning of winter across China. During this time, people will get to experience a unique weather pattern which is shaped by chilly northern landscapes and pleasantly warm southern cities. With fewer crowds, lower travel costs, and a variety of seasonal activities, it’s one of the most rewarding times to explore the country.
Whether you’re drawn to snowy adventures in Harbin or prefer the mild coastal charm of places like Xiamen and Hainan, don’t worry, China in December is capable of fulfilling every traveler’s expectation. This guide will cover everything you need to know about having a China tour in this month—regional weather conditions, festive highlights, travel tips and the best places to visit.
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- Is December a Good Time to Visit China?
- Weather in December?
- 8 Best Places to Go
- Festivals and Events
- Tips for
- Travel with China Xian Tour
Is December a Good Time to Visit China?
Definitely yes. December is one of the best low-season months to travel to China. Major tourist attractions are way less crowded than in summer and some autumn days, flights and hotels also become more affordable.
Most importantly, northern China features dreamy and pure snow scenery, while southern China is an ideal winter retreat with warm weather. In simple words, December can provide visitors with a rich and diverse travel experience across the country.
What is the Weather Like in China in December?
With vast landscapes and varying elevations, China’s December weather conditions, just like in other months, differ dramatically from region to region.
The weather in North China becomes noticeably colder, with daytime temperatures often hovering around or below freezing. Classic winter scenes like snow-covered rooftops, icy rivers, and crisp, quiet mornings can be expected.
Northwest China experiences chilly mornings, brisk winds, and the frequent snow flurries, especially in highland regions.
East China is much milder and more humid in December, but the cold feels damper and more penetrating, even when temperatures are not extremely low.
South China in December is generally mild as always, with pleasant temperatures and less rainfall.
Southwest China offers a varied climate due to its relatively complex geography. Higher-altitude areas are very cold and dry and basins have cool, damp, and relatively more comfortable weather.
City/Region |
Average Temperature (°C/°F) |
Weather Features |
Beijing |
-6°C – 4°C (21°F – 39°F) |
Cold and dry, occasional light snow |
Harbin |
-20°C – -10°C (−4°F – 14°F) |
Heavy snow, icy landscape, peak winter vibes |
Chengdu (Sichuan) |
4 – 12°C (39 – 54°F) |
Damp and cold, more overcast days, with occasional light rain |
Huangshan |
-4 – 11°C (25 – 52°F) |
Cold, windy, occasional snow and frost in high altitudes |
Kunming (Yunnan) |
5 – 17°C (41 – 63°F) |
Warm, sunny, dry and abundant sunshine |
Sanya (Hainan) |
19 – 24°C (66 – 75°F) |
Warm and pleasant, gentle breeze and little rain |
Hong Kong |
15 – 21℃ (59 – 70°F) |
Mild, sunny and dry with little rain |
Altai (Northern Xinjiang) |
-30℃ – -5℃ (-22 – 23°F) |
Extremely cold with bone-chilling wind, dry, heavy snow |
8 Best Places to Go in China in December
So, you are planning your China winter tour in December, a whole lot of curiosity and ideas in mind – but you don’t know where to go. Here are 10 best picks for those who will travel to China during the Christmas and New Year holiday. There are snow-fun destinations, as well as the warm gateways. Have a quick overview of the recommended cities first, then dive into them one by one.
Harbin – Discover a Winter Wonderland with Stunning Snowy Landscapes
- What to wear: Thermal underwear, woolen sweater, long thick down jacket, thermal long johns, fleece pants, windproof thick pants, woolen socks, snow boots, scarf, warm hat, gloves
December in Harbin calls the arrival of deep winter in China, with average temperatures ranging from -20°C to -10°C (-4°F to 14°F). The city soon becomes a true snowy paradise, featuring frozen rivers, snow-covered streets, and frosty mornings.
Visitors can enjoy winter activities in Harbin Ice and Snow World in late December, like ice skating and ice slides, and explore the charming Russian-influenced architecture while they’re dusted with snow.
The quiet beauty of Harbin in December makes it a perfect destination for travelers looking for authentic northern winter scenes.
Recommended tour: 5 Days Harbin City and China Snow Town Tour
Beijing – Crisp Winter Air and Cultural Exploration
- What to wear: Thermal underwear, sweater, down jacket, long johns, pants, hat, scarf, gloves
Beijing’s average temperatures range from -6°C to 4°C (21°F to 39°F) in December. The city’s famous landmarks, including the Great Wall and Forbidden City will become less crowded. As the snowfall occasionally blankets the city, the beautiful white scene also adds a magical touch to its historical sites. Winter is also a great time to experience Beijing’s hearty local cuisine and festive events.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Beijing Essence Tour
Hainan – Warm and Sunny Winter Getaway
- What to wear: summer clothing such as short sleeves, shorts, skirts, sun protective clothing, sun hat, sunglasses
Hainan Island remains warm in December like always (18°C to 25°C/64°F to 77°F). It offers a pleasant tropical escape for people living in colder northern area as a place with sunny beaches, clear seas, and lush rainforests even in December.
December is ideal for beach activities, water sports, and relaxing resorts, making Hainan a popular winter destination for both domestic and international travelers. Sanya is the most reputed city.
Recommended tour: 5 Days Sanya Classic Private Tour for Culture, Wildlife and Rainforest
Hong Kong – Immerse in Festival Atmosphere
- What to wear: Long-sleeved T-shirt, thin sweater or sweatshirt, long pants, light down coat or trench coat
December in Hong Kong is sunny, dry, cool and comfortable, making it one of the best months to explore the city.
From urban sightseeing to Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbour, adventure in Disneyland Park, hiking in the Lamma Island and Lantau Island, to shopping, all can be arranged as you like.
The highlight of this month is the strong festival atmosphere across the city. During the visit, you will see Christmas decorations everywhere on the streets.
Central transforms into a winter town with a six-story-tall giant Christmas tree in Queen’s Square, dazzling lights, Christmas markets, log cabins, and 3D light projection shows.
Recommended tour: 2 Days Hong Kong Island & Lantau Island Tour
Northern Xinjiang – An Ice and Snow Fairy Tale
- What to wear: Quick-drying thermal suit, thick fleece, long ski suit, thermal long johns, wool pants, windproof technical pants, thick woolen socks, snow boots, scarf, warm hat, snow goggles, gloves
In December, the ice and snow scenery in Northern Xinjiang has reached its peak. The Tuwa wooden houses in Hemu Village resemble giant snow mushroom after being carpeted with heavy snow.
During the visit, visitors can ride a horse-drawn sled through the forest and snowfield to experience the traditional local life, and lose themselves in the serene, glittering night sky.
What’s more, Sayram Lake treats you to ice wonders like blue ice and ice bubbles; Frozen Tianchi Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, forming a pure winter picture; and the ski resorts in Altai welcomes you to enjoy fun of skiing.
Recommended tour: 11 Days In-depth Northern Xinjiang Adventure Tour – Small Group
Yunnan – Enjoy Spring-Like Weather and Diverse Landscapes
- What to wear: Kunming, Dali & Lijiang: A light down jacket, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, with a coat added in the morning and evening; Xishuangbanna: summer clothes and a light coat;
This province’s varied geography offers a vast variety of travel experiences which includes visiting ethnic villages in Dali and Lijiang to exploring tropical rainforests in Xishuangbanna.
Thanks to the generally mild climate, December is great for outdoor adventures. You can enjoy sightseeing and photography comfortably.
Yuanyang Rice Terraces is highly recommended. During the irrigation season, the rice terraces are filled with water, just like mirrors reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. In the early morning, it is also possible to see the sea of clouds and the rice terraces shrouded in the mist.
Recommended tour: 11 Days Yunnan Nature and Wildlife Tour
Jilin – Snowy Landscapes and Winter Sports
- What to wear: Thermal underwear, down liner, long thick down jacket, thermal long johns, woolen pants, windproof thick jeans, woolen socks, snow boots, scarf, warm hat, gloves
In Jilin, December brings cold air to the land and the temperatures hover around -17°C to -6°C (1°F to 21°F), turning the region into a snowy wonderland.
And the famous Changbai Mountain area in Jilin, with its winter resorts and snow-capped peaks, has attracted millions of outdoor lovers to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, rime drifting and relaxing hot springs.
Rime drifting is one of the most memorable experiences for most travelers. When gliding slowly along the river, you will be surrounded by the willows and pine branches covered with glistening rime ice. And the swirling mist transforms the river into a fairyland.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Harbin and Jilin Rime Island Tour
Huangshan – Misty Mountains and Early Winter Colors
- What to wear: Sweater, long pants, sports shoes, thin down jacket for exploration at mountain foot. If you plan to climb Huangshan Mountain, wear a thick down jacket.
Huangshan (Yellow Mountain) in December sees temperatures ranging from -4°C to 11°C (25°F to 52°F). The scenic mountain peaks are often dusted with light snow and shrouded in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere that is beloved by so many hikers and photographers.
December is quieter than peak autumn, offering more peaceful trails and spectacular winter views of granite spires and pine forest.
After appreciating the mountain scenery, it will be healing to enjoy a hot spring bath in the scenic area. The stark contrast between falling snow outside and rising steam in the pool will also leave a deep impression on you.
Recommended tour: 4-Day Classic Huangshan Tour with Tangyue Memorial Archways
Top Festivals and Events in China in December
Dongzhi Festival (Winter Solstice)
The Dongzhi Festival, or Winter Solstice, usually falls between December 21 and 23. It marks the shortest daytime and longest night of the year. Celebrated primarily in northern and eastern China, families gather to eat warm foods such as dumplings (especially in the north) or tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) in the south. It’s a time for family reunion and nourishing the body during the depths of winter.
For more information about Chinese traditional festival, please see: Top 8 Traditional Chinese Festivals
Christmas – Western Festivities with a Chinese Twist
While Christmas is not a traditional Chinese holiday, still you can feel the festival vibe in many major cities. Shopping malls, hotels, and tourist areas often put up festive decorations like Christmas trees, and themed light. So that it’s actually a great time to see how global holidays are adapted in Chinese urban culture, especially in major cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Chengdu. >> See how people celebrate Christmas in China.
China Travel Tips for December
- Pack for diverse climates: Northern China is freezing while the south stays mild—dress in layers and check local forecasts.
- Book early for winter hotspots: Places like Harbin which provides unique winter charm would get busies, so do book early.
- Eat seasonal foods: Warm up with hot pot, lamb stew, and roasted sweet potatoes.
- Protect your skin: Bring moisturizer and lip balm—northern cities are dry and windy.
- Expect light rain in the south: Bring an umbrella for cities like Guilin or Hong Kong.
- Use Public Transport or Apps: With fewer crowds on the road, taking public transport can give you a more pleasant experience, and apps like Didi (Chinese Uber) also work well in almost every city
Plan Your China Tour with Us
Planning a winter trip to China? Contact us now and we’ll help you make a smooth and unforgettable journey. As local travel experts, we will endure you a hassle-free travel experience which is tailored to your interests. And we provide all kinds of services like custom itineraries, local guides and 24/7 support. Whether you want to see snow-covered Great Wall views or join a hot pot food tour in Chengdu, we’ve got you covered!
