Planning a trip to China in November? You’re in for a treat. With crisp autumn air, colorful foliage in the north, and mild weather in the south, November is one of the best shoulder-season months to explore China. Except for the pleasant travel condition, there are also many vibrant cultural festivals and stunning landscapes you can expect for having a China tour in this month.
In this article, we’ll take you to discover the weather in China in November with us together, and go through details about the top 10 places to visit, and eventually get your insider travel tips which can help you plan a smooth and unforgettable journey.
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- Is November a Good Time to Visit China?
- Weather in China in November
- 10 Best Places to Go
- Crowds and Costs in November
- Tips for November
- Travel with China Xian Tour
Is November a Good Time to Visit China?
Yes — November is an excellent time to visit China, especially if you are looking for a trip with mild weather and fewer tourists. During this time, you can enjoy all kinds of beauty of late autumn in most of the country, while winter hasn’t fully set in yet. Northern cities like Beijing start to cool down, while south-western destinations like Guilin and Yunnan are still pleasantly warm.
You’ll have the chance to embrace amazing fall foliage, cultural activities, and scenic spots with more freedom and space in your November journey. Plus, flights and hotel prices are often lower than in peak seasons.
What is the Weather Like in China in November? – China November Weather by Region
November marks the transition from autumn to winter in most parts of China. During this period, regional weather varies widely due to the country’s vast geographic diversity.
Generally speaking, in the north, temperatures drop quickly and the air becomes dry and crisp. Some cities in the northwest and northeast even begin to see snowfall, marking the arrival of early winter.
The southern and eastern coastal regions remain relatively mild and comfortable with much less rainfall and clearer skies than summer.
Southwest China experiences a noticeable seasonal transition. Cooler air starts to settle in across the region, but many cities still enjoy mild days.
City/Area |
Average Temperature (°C / °F) |
Weather Features |
Beijing |
0 – 12°C (32 – 54°F) |
Cool days, chilly nights, dry and clear skies |
Shanghai |
11 – 19°C (52 – 66°F) |
Mild and pleasant; low rainfall; good for city walks and skyline photography |
Guilin |
15 – 24°C (59 – 75°F) |
Mild with occasional mist, ideal for enjoying river cruise and mountain landscapes |
Xiamen |
18 – 26°C (64 – 79°F) |
Comfortable, ideal for coastal exploration |
Hong Kong |
16 – 26°C (61 – 79°F) |
Pleasant and breezy, great for harbor activities |
Lhasa (Tibet) |
-4 – 12°C (25 – 54°F) |
Cold and dry, high-altitude air intensifies the chill |
Huangshan |
8 – 17°C (46 – 63°F) |
Cooler in mountain areas; mist possible; peaceful atmosphere with fall colors |
10 Best Places to Go in China in November
Wuyuan County in Jiangxi – Feast Your Eyes on Vibrant Colors
- What to wear: a long-sleeved shirt, a thin sweater and a light coat during the day, a thick coat or down jacket at night, non-slip sports shoes
Wuyuan welcomes its most picturesque landscapes in November. The autumn crop-drying spectacle offers visitors a display of vibrant autumn colors.
Entering the Huangling Village, you will see the rooftops of Hui-style houses are covered with red peppers, yellow corn, orange pumpkins and golden chrysanthemums, creating a striking contrast with white walls and gray tiles.
The hundred-year-old ancient maple trees in Shicheng Scenic Area gradually take on red hues from mid-November. In the early morning, the red leaves are shrouded in mist and smoke from kitchen chimneys, forming a poetic landscape.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Wuyuan Tour with Wangxian Valley
Jiuzhai Valley – Early Snow and Autumn Colors Create a Magical Natural Wonderland
- What to wear: layered clothing, sweat-wicking innerwear, fleece or thin sweater, windproof waterproof windbreaker or down jacket, non-slip hiking shoes, hat, scarf, gloves, sunglasses
Jiuzhai Valley experiences cooling temperatures between 3–16°C (37–61°F) in November. And there’s possibility for visitors to enjoy the early snowfall if traveling during this time. While autumn foliage also lingers into early November, it will contrast beautifully with the first dustings of snow.
This is a magical picture for nature lovers and photographers who have always been seeking vibrant colors alongside winter’s arrival.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Jiuzhaigou Huanglong Tour with Panda Volunteer Program
Tengchong – Step into a Golden World
- What to wear: Thin sweater, thin down jacket or windbreaker, long jeans or pants, Martin boots, scarf, sun hat, sunglasses
Tengchong is famous for its ginkgo village, where over 3,000 ancient ginkgo trees are grown.
In late November, all the trees are dyed with brilliant gold and the fallen ginkgo leaves even form a layer 3 to 5 cm thick. Tourists, especially photographers, will lose themselves in this golden fairyland.
What’s more, you can also wander around the 600-year-old Heshun Ancient Town to discover historic sites and enjoy a relaxing hot spring bath in Rehai Scenic Area.
Recommended tour: 3 Days Tengchong Tour with Hot Spring & Heshun Old Town
Huangshan – Fiery Autumn Foliage Amidst Misty Mountain Peaks
- What to wear: quick-drying long-sleeved T-shirts or thin sweater, thin down jacket, windproof and waterproof jacket, warm sports pants, hiking shoes, woolen socks, warm hat, gloves
Huangshan Mountain’s November is incredibly comfortable, as temperatures would range from 8–17°C (46–63°F), while early mornings and evenings will be even cooler.
If you travel to Huangshan Mountain in this month, you will be rewarded with the fiery red and golden leaves falling against the iconic granite peaks.
Occasional mist also adds mystique to the landscape, making it a favorite month for hikers and photographers who seeks vivid autumn scenes and clearer mountain views.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Huangshan Tour with Hongcun & Xidi Villages
Shanghai – Enjoy Crisp Autumn Days Along the Bund
- What to wear: light knits and jeans or skirt during the day, add a short wool coat or windbreaker at night, comfortable shoes
In November, Shanghai will greet a mild and comfortable weather with average temperatures ranging from 11–19°C (52–66°F).
Since the humidity level will be low and rainfall becomes minimal, it is one of the best time to take a stroll through iconic spots like the Bund, Yu Garden, and French Concession.
While Autumn foliage remains in parks, it would more than pleasant to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Private Shanghai Highlights Tour
Guilin – Mild Weather Enhancing Scenic Li River Cruises and Karst Views
- What to wear: long-sleeved shirt, knitted sweater, lightweight windproof jacket, bring a fleece or thin down jacket if you plan to visit higher altitudes like Longji Rice Terraces
Guilin enjoys a rather mild temperature in November (15–24°C /59–75°F), and there will also be low rainfall and gentle breezes. The autumn season paints the karst hills and Li River scenery in rich colors, making river cruises and outdoor hikes both relaxing and poetic.
The weather will also support you to have a comfortable exploration of surrounding towns like Yangshuo, and it’s a great chance to catch the charm of southern China’s natural beauty.
Recommended tour: 3 Day Guilin Tour with Yangshuo and Xingping
Xiamen and Tulou Buildings – Pleasant Coastal Weather Meets Unique Earthen Architecture
- What to wear: long-sleeved T-shirt and thin shirts during the day, a windbreaker or thin sweater in the mornings and evenings
Xiamen in November is pleasant and enjoyable, with temperatures ranging from 18–26°C (64–79°F). The weather makes this coastal city ideal for leisurely strolls along the beach and exploring nearby islands like Gulangyu.
Meanwhile, the Fujian Tulou — traditional earthen buildings—are at the best time to visit, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the unique architecture and rural charm without summer heat or rain.
Recommended tour: 4 Days Xiamen Amazing Tour
Hong Kong – Perfect Weather for Harbor Views and Vibrant Night Markets
- What to wear: cool and breathable clothes such as cotton or linen shirts, thin long dresses and thin T-shirts, wear thin jeans or casual clothes at night
Hong Kong’s weather is warm and stable in November (16–26°C /61–79°F), so that it would be a perfect time for all kinds of outdoor activities.
Enjoy the gentle breeze of November and let the city’s natural beauty and vibrant cultural festivals leave you an unforgettable travel memory.
Recommended tour: 2 Days Hong Kong Island & Lantau Island Tour
Beijing – Clear Skies and Early Winter Charm at the Great Wall
- What to wear: jacket, thin sweater, trench coat, thick overcoat or down jacket
November in Beijing marks the onset of early winter, and its temperatures will be around 0–12°C (32–54°F). The air will be dry and crisp, and snowfall may begin later in the month.
Tourist crowds thin out during this time, offering visitors a quieter atmosphere to visit landmarks like the Forbidden City, and Temple of Heaven.
In the Fragrant Hills and the Great Wall, maple and ginkgo trees paint the hills red and gold. Every step is rewarding when you go hiking.
Recommended tour: 5 Days Beijing Tour Package with Panda Encounter
Xizang (Tibet) – Crisp Air and Stunning High-Altitude Views with Fewer Tourists
- What to wear: light sweater and jacket in the daytime, padded coat, down jackets for the cold nights, woolen hat and gloves
November in Tibet brings cold but dry weather, with temperatures ranging from -4–12°C (25–54°F). The thin mountain air calls the arrival of winter, while also sharpens people’s senses, and the crystal-clear skies also offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and vast plateaus.
This month is excellent for visiting spiritual sites such as Potala Palace and exploring remote areas with fewer tourists and pristine conditions.
Recommended tour: 6 Days Lhasa – Namtso – Damxung In-depth Tour
Crowds and Costs in November in China
November is one of the quietest and most affordable times to have a China tour. After the busy Golden Week in early October is finished, tourist crowds will drop sharply, and finally, iconic sites like the Great Wall or Zhangjiajie can be much more peaceful to explore.
Costs of the journey also fall, including airfare, hotels, and many of them would often offer off-season discounts. With no major national holidays, transportation and scenic areas also remain calm and easy to navigate. If you’re after good value, fewer people, and relaxed travel, November is an ideal time to visit China.
China Travel Tips for November
Bring Moisturizer and Lip Balm: This is typically important if you’re traveling to Northern China, as your destinations can be dry and windy — skin protection is essential.
Carry an Umbrella or Raincoat: Even though rainfalls are generally minimal in most places, Southern cities like Guilin or Hong Kong may still experience light rain.
Prepare for Smog in Big Cities: Air quality in Beijing and Xi’an could sometime get worse, since winter is coming. Consider wearing a mask or checking the AQI before outdoor activities.
Enjoy Seasonal Foods: November is the best time for enjoying Chinese foods like hot pot, roasted sweet potatoes, persimmons, and hairy crabs. Don’t miss the chance to taste the best of November.
Plan Your China Tour with China Xian Tour
Looking to explore the best of China this November? No matter you’re captivated by the golden autumn scenery of Beijing or the cultural richness of Chengdu, China Xian Tour is always here prepared to give you a perfect tour. Our experienced local guides will make your journey in China easy, safe, and rewarding. With all the planning and logistics taken care of by us, you’re free to fully enjoy the beauty and magic of November in China.
