China Weather in April
In April, spring is in the air in most of China. Fruit trees and flowers bloom as the warm breezes. It’s a good time to visit China and do outdoor activities, but you need to prepare for rainy days. There is still freezing weather in the north and the mountain regions.
North and Northeast China
— Beijing, Datong, Hohhot, Harbin…
Flowers in Beijing Botanical Garden
The weather is warm during the day but chilly at night.
Clothing: You may be able to do shorts and T-shirts during the day, but you'll need warmer clothes at night.
West China
— Xinjiang, Qinghai, Dunhuang, Xi’an, Tibet…
April is not a good time to travel to Xinjiang due to frequent dust storms. The weather is dry and cloudy, and it is still very cold.
Tibet is probably open to tourists in early April. April is one of the best months to visit since it is low tourist season and the weather is comfortable during the day.
Clothing: The temperature can still drop to freezing at night so bring warm clothes with you.
East China
— Shanghai, Hangzhou, Suzhou, Huangshan…
Shanghai Arboretum
The weather is changeable. It can be humid and damp, and it can be warm too.
Clothing: Short pants and sleeves are good for daytime, but you'll want warm and weather-proof outer garments for evenings and rainy days of which there will be plenty.
South China
— Guilin, Guangzhou, Hong Kong…
In Hong Kong in April, the weather is pleasant and warm. It will be warm during the day and even hot and humid.
Guilin can still be quite cool following rain in April. It rains 2/3 of the days of April.
Clothing: Bring light clothes that will feel comfortable under rain gear. You may want a jacket or sweater at night, but light pants will probably be the warmest you'll need.
Central and Southwest China
— Chengdu, Chongqing, Zhangjiajie, Kunming, Kaili…
It’s warm in April, apart from in the high mountains of e.g. Lijiang or Jiuzhaigou. But the temperature drops on rainy days. The temperature difference is large.
Clothing: Bring a light coat or sweater and T-shirts to keep warm/cool, and don’t forget to bring rain gear.
Average April Weather Data for Major Tourist Cities
| Cities | Average High | Average Low | Rainy Days | Precipitation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beijing | 20°C (68°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 4 | 21mm (1") |
| Xi’an | 21°C (70°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 8 | 43mm (1.5") |
| Shanghai | 19°C (66°F) | 11°C (52°F) | 12 | 63mm (2.5") |
| Hangzhou | 21°C (70°F) | 12°C (54°F) | 15 | 127mm (5") |
| Chengdu | 22°C (72°F) | 13°C (55°F) | 13 | 44mm (1.5") |
| Guilin | 23°C (73°F) | 16°C (61°F) | 20 | 247mm (10") |
| Kunming | 24°C (75°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 7 | 24mm (1") |
Why Visit China in April?
There is beautiful spring scenery at Hong Village near the Yellow Mountains in Huangshan Prefecture.
Mild weather: The weather is warm and is pleasant for traveling across most of the country.
Spring freshness: Flowers are blooming and trees are turning green. The land appears robust and refreshing. Two of the rewards of traveling in China during this month are the views and the sweet smell of flowers in parks, gardens, and along the streets.
Avoid peak season: This is the month when destinations are gearing up for the crowds in the upcoming peak tourist season at the end of April, but businesses and attractions are still offering bargains.
Drizzly Weather in the South in April
You may meet continuous drizzle in some areas of Central, East, and South China such as Guilin, Hangzhou, and Huangshan. On the plus side, the rain brings fresh air and magical misty scenery.
Best April Destinations
The Misty Li River in April
April is a pleasant time for traveling, appreciating flowers, and hiking. South China (Huangshan, Guilin, Hangzhou) offers beautiful spring scenery. But you may meet rainy days in southern China especially in the areas near Vietnam such as Guilin and the southeastern coast.
Other recommendations include:
- Beijing: Appreciate peach blossoms and peonies in the parks.
- Xi’an: Visit historical sites and bike on Xi’an's Ancient Wall.
- Kunming: enjoy spring scenery in sunny weather.
Read more about the best places to visit in April. There are many festivals and events in April.
Festivals Make April More Colorful
The Water Splashing Festival
Water Splashing Festival: This festival is usually celebrated in April in Yunnan where the Dai Minority live. They dress in traditional clothes and splash water on others as a blessing. Read more about the Water Splashing Festival.
Zhuang Minority Folk Song Festival in Guangxi: On this day, men and women divide into gender teams, and they sing alternately in antiphonal style. Read more about the Zhuang Minority Folk Song Festival.
There are many festivals and events in April. A new national holiday and festival that was begun in 2014See China Festivals in April.
Most Popular China Tours for April
An outdoor activity is the main theme of April travel in China. Pack your bag and come with us to explore the beauty of China. Below are our suggested tours for your inspiration. Modify these tours as you wish.
If you want more suggestions and tips on your China trip, please see How to Plan Your First Trip to China for inspiration.
Weather and Things to Do in China's Cities in April
China Climate Information by Month
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