Xian Weather

With a sub-humid warm temperate continental monsoon climate and the location on the Northern Plains, Xi’an features four distinct seasons, including the mild and changeful spring, the scorching and stuffy summer, the cool and breezy autumn, and the frosty and dry winter.

The annual average temperature of Xi’an weather ranges from 13 ºC (55.4 ºF) to 13.7 ºC (56.7 ºF). Generally, January keeps the coldest weather in Xi’an, with the mean minimum temperature of -5 ºC (23 ºF); while the highest Xi’an temperature can reach around 40 ºC (104 ºF) in July. The annual precipitation in Xi’an fluctuates between 522.4 and 719.5 mm, increasing from north to south. July and September are two obvious peak months of rainfall. The annual average humidity is 69.6%. The best time to travel to Xi’an is from March to May in spring when the Xi’an climate is mild and pleasant. Also, September and October are good months to visit Xi’an.

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Big Wild Goose Pagoda

Xi’an Seasons – Temperature & Clothing Guide

Spring (March to May)

The weather in Xi’an in spring is warm and slightly dry, with the temperature varying greatly from morning to evening. The monthly average temperature in March is 9 ºC (48.2 ºF), which rebounds in May and can rise to 20 ºC (68 ºF) at the highest. The light sweaters and thin down jackets are appropriate clothes to wear in Xi’an in early spring. In May, you can wear thin T-shirts or even short sleeves. The comfortable climate and blooming cherry blossoms make spring the best season for tourism and outdoor activities, including a biking tour on the Xi’an City Wall, enjoying the cherry blossoms in Qinglong Temple, and paying a visit to the Terracotta Army.

Summer (June to August)

Xi’an weather in summer is harsh, hot, and humid, especially in the middle of summer. July is the hottest month of the year, with an average high temperature of 33 ºC (91.4 ºF). Typically, the rainy season comes to Xi’an in this period. Short sleeves, vests, dresses and sandals are suitable clothes to wear in Xi’an in summer. It is not suggested to go outside at midday due to the strong sunlight. If you must travel, you are advised to bring sun-protective clothing, sunglasses and a sun hat. Summer in Xi’an is muggy, but there are some excellent indoor activities like the Shaanxi History Museum and the Terracotta Warriors.

Xian City Wall

Autumn (September to November)

The autumn lasts from September to November, during which Xi’an weather becomes pleasantly cool. The average temperature ranges from 10 to 21 ºC (50 – 69.8 ºF), with the lowest temperature of 5 ºC (41 ºF) at the end of November. A long-sleeved shirt is enough in September, but you need to add a sweater after late October. Autumn is another good time to plan a trip to Xi’an, which allows tourists to appreciate a unique natural painting composed of layers of yellow ginkgo leaves at the Hanyangling Museum or Ancient Guanyin Temple. Pay attention that China’s National Day Holiday from October 1 to 7 is the busiest travel time that you are recommended to avoid when a large number of tourists flock to Xi’an.

Winter (December to February)

Xi’an weather in winter starts to get chilly, dry and foggy, and there would be several snowfalls. January is the coldest month of the year, with the mean temperature of 0 ºC (32 ºF) and the lowest temperature sometimes dropping below -4 ºC 24.8 ºF). Warm clothes including padded jackets, down coats, and woolen sweaters are recommended. Paying a visit to Xi’an in winter is a good choice for budget tourists because of the less cost of entrance tickets and accommodation. Here are some popular destinations to explore like the Cuihua Mountain Ski Resort, Tangyu Hot Springs, and Stele Forest. Chinese New Year and Lantern Festival often fall in February when you could enjoy some special activities like shadow plays and gorgeous fireworks.