Xi’an Weather in December: Temperature, Clothing Guide & Things to Do

Written by Clementine | Updated September 06,2025

There are many reasons to travel to Xian in December. Despite Xi’an’s cold winters, the city experiences consistent weather with little precipitation, allowing for stunning views of the snowy landscape. Since there are comparatively fewer travellers throughout the winter, you can have a tranquil trip. Additionally, the total cost of the trip is modest due to the relatively low prices of the attraction tickets, airline and bullet train tickets, hotel accommodations, and other expenses.

When planning your winter trip to Xian, you’re suggested to check the Xian weather forecast in December. And whenever you decide to visit Xian, let the top local travel company, China Xian Tour, take you there in the most flexible way possible at the most affordable price with first-rate service.

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• What’s the Weather in Xi’an in December?
• Averages of Xian Weather & Climate in December
• Xian Weather in December in History
• What to Wear in Xi’an in December
• Where to Go in Xi’an in December
• Tips to Know for Traveling Xi’an in December
• FAQs about Traveling to Xi’an in December
• Enjoy a Xi’an Winter Tour with China Xian Tour

What’s the Weather in Xi’an in December?

According to the Chinese lunar calendar, the day of Heavy Snow and the winter solstice Festival fall in December. The day of Heavy Snow marks the beginning of midwinter. The winter solstice marks the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere before the days begin to get longer again.

Therefore, in December, Xi’an officially welcomes its winter season. Xi’an weather in December is biting, frigid and snowy. The average temperature ranges from -3 °C (26.6 °F) to 6 °C (42.8 °F).

If it rains, the minimum temperature may drop below -5 °C (23 °F). With little rainfall, December is one of the driest months of the year, having a humidity of 64%. Most days in December are cloudy with low visibility and poor air quality.

The highest temperature in Xi’an in December is 22℃ (in 1989), and the lowest temperature in Xi’an in December is -19℃ (in 1954).

Averages of Xian Weather & Climate in December

Xian Weather in December in History

What to Wear in Xi’an in December

Down-filled coats, thickened socks, warm leggings, scarfs, down parkas are recommended to wear in Xi’an in December to keep out the cold. In addition, you need to wear an anti haze face mask with filters to protect yourself from serious air pollution.

Where to Go in Xi’an in December

Xi’an is well-known for its rich history, vibrant traditional culture and a wide range of foods and snacks. Even in December, when it’s cold outside, the city has an incredible appeal. The winter in December is a slack season in Xi’an, so you could have the most fun at the lowest cost.

Recommendation Rate for traveling: ★★★

Terracotta Army – Marvel at the Underground Army

As one of Xi’an’s iconic attractions, the Terracotta Army still retains its charm in December. Since fewer people are there now, it is possible to have a deeper appreciation of this historical treasure.

Big Wild Goose Pagoda – Explore Buddhist Culture

Another historic landmark in Xi’an is the Big Wild Goose Pagoda. The gloomy winter has replaced the autumn foliage surrounding the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in December. The Big Wild Goose Pagoda’s display on Buddhist culture is immersive.

Cuihua Mountain Ski Resort – Embrace Winter Fun

Go skiing in Cuihua Mountain Ski Resort. As a part of Cuihua Mountain Scenic Area, it is the only natural ski resort in Xi’an where you can not only “show off” your superb skiing skills, but also watch the skiing stunt performance every noon.

Tangyu Hot Springs – Relax in a Royal Spa

Take a hot spring bath at Tangyu Hot Springs of Lantian County. As once a royal hot spring resort, it is a rare place of spa boasting excellent water quality with many kinds of minerals, which has great therapeutic effects on skin diseases, chronic arthritis, etc.

Experience Dumpling-Making on Winter Solstice

In Xi’an, there is a custom of eating dumplings during Winter solstice. Why not visit a local family and learn to make dumplings.

√Recommended Xian Tours in December:

• Half Day Local Family Visiting and Chinese Cuisine Cooking Class
• 3 Days Best of Xian Tour Package
• Xian Essence Day Tour with Terracotta Army

Tips to Know for Traveling to Xi’an in December

1. Since December is Xi’an’s dry season and there isn’t much precipitation, it is advised to drink more water.
2. It’s easy to catch cold during this month, so remember to bring some medicine just in case.
3. You’d better bring the facial cream to keep moist.

FAQs about Traveling to Xi’an in December

What are the main advantages of visiting Xi’an in December?

December is one of the off-season months, so except for the chance to wander in snowy landscapes, there are fewer crowds and lower prices, making your journey more comfortable.

What are some popular winter-specific foods in Xi’an?

In winter, foods that can get people warm mean everything. Try dumplings during the Winter Solstice, hot pot, or spicy noodles.

Is it a good time to visit Mount Hua in December?

Well, it needs more consideration. Even though the scenic area will stay open, walking on the icy and dangerous trails will not be so pleasant. So it’s not recommended unless you are highly experienced in winter hiking.

How many daylight hours does Xi’an have in December?

Normally 10 hours of daylight, starting from around 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

Are hotels and accommodations cheaper in December?

Yes, hotels and tickets are usually more affordable in December since tourism is going to an off-season.

Is cycling the Xi’an City Wall comfortable in December?

It can be a bit cold and windy, but if you are equipped with proper winter gear, the fun won’t be reduced at all.

What are the indoor attractions or activities recommended for very cold days?

Visiting museums like the Shaanxi History Museum will be great. Seeing indoor cultural shows or relaxing in hot spring resorts are also highly recommended.

Enjoy a Xi’an Winter Tour with China Xian Tour

As cold air and snow are going to arrive as planned, Xi’an will soon put on a unique atmosphere in December, which can give you a totally different experience compared to summer days. To make this trip even more unforgettable and immersive, you can choose to travel with China Xian Tour, a high-end travel agency based in Xi’an for over a decade. With the help of our local travel experts, you’ll get a tailor-made journey which is completely based on your own preference, with private transfers and professional guides all included. No matter what kind of winter exploration you’re looking for, we’re confident in providing any travel service you need.

Keep Reading:

• Xian Weather in November
• Xi’an Weather in January
• Xi’an Weather in February
• See the Best of China in December