It is not cold in January in Guangzhou. January is one of the most underrated times to visit. You could enjoy comfortable, warm-weather days and immerse in the rich, joyous buzz of Chinese New Year preparations. Daytime temperatures typically range between 10-20°C (50-68°F), while nights can drop to around 8-12°C.
The air is dry and crisp, with only 3-5 rainy days throughout the month. Skies are often clear or partly cloudy, making it pleasant for outdoor exploration.
If you arrive in early January, you can catch the plum blossoms in full bloom and enjoy the golden autumn foliage. From December 28 to January 3, you can also participate in the New Year's celebrations at the Canton Tower and Yuexiu Park, experiencing the continuous festive atmosphere from New Year's Day through the Spring Festival.
Does It Snow in Guangzhou in January?
No. Guangzhou and snow don't really know each other. The coldest it gets is around 8°C (46°F) in early morning - chilly, sure, but nowhere near freezing. If you're dreaming of a white winter, you'll need to head north to Beijing or Harbin. Guangzhou does winter differently: think cool breezes and sunny skies, not snowdrifts and ice.
Unique Experiences You Can Enjoy in Guangzhou in January
January's cool, clear weather opens up experiences that are less enjoyable in other seasons. And with fewer tourists, you'll experience Guangzhou at a more relaxed pace.
Here are four activities that shine in January:
1. Ring in the New Year at Canton Tower
Canton TowerIf you're in Guangzhou during the first few days of January, you'll catch the tail end of the city's New Year celebrations.
From December 28 through January 3, Canton Tower and the city's skyline light up with a massive light show. The 600-meter tower becomes a canvas of colors, synchronized with music and sometimes accompanied by drone performances over the Pearl River.
Crowds gather along the riverbank, capturing the spectacle. The atmosphere is festive and energetic, with people counting down together as the tower explodes in color.
The light shows continue through January 3, so you can experience the festive atmosphere without the massive New Year's Eve crowds. Shows run nightly from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with special sequences on the hour.
Best viewing spots:
- Haixinsha Park (free, open all day): Right across from Canton Tower (20 minutes' walk or 10 minutes' drive), unobstructed views.
- Pearl River cruise: Watch the lights from the water.
- Zhujiang New Town: Modern skyline backdrop.
2. Explore Winter Foliage at Botanical Gardens
South China Botanical GardenHere's something most visitors don't expect: Guangzhou's "winter" is when the city looks most colorful.
From December through February, metasequoia trees (also called dawn redwoods) turn brilliant shades of rust, orange, and red. It's like autumn came late, creating a warm color palette against the cool blue sky.
Guangzhou flips the script - here, the best colors come in January. In early January, the leaves transit from green to yellow and then turning orange-red. After mid-January, the colors deepen, creating a vibrant mix of red and orange. The best viewing period typically lasts until early February.
Where to see:
- South China Botanical Garden (30 minutes' drive from Canton Tower) is the best spot. The botanical garden is open year-round, with daily operating hours from 07:30 to 17:30 (last admission). The admission ticket costs 20 RMB (3 USD) per person.
- Tianhe Wetland Park (40 minutes' drive from Canton Tower): This free park opens all day long. It offers a more urban experience. The metasequoia-lined paths are perfect for a morning jog or afternoon stroll.
3. Explore Xiguan Flavors and Bruce Lee's Roots
Guangzhou dim sum snacksThe Xiguan area in Liwan District represents old Guangzhou at its most authentic. January's cool, comfortable weather is perfect for wandering narrow lanes lined with traditional arcade houses, local markets, and family-run eateries serving recipes passed down for decades.
You'll discover ancestral mansions called "qilou," vintage shops, and dishes you won't find in tourist spots - boat congee with a dozen toppings, and claypot rice that's especially satisfying in the cool weather.
Tucked in this neighborhood is the Former Residence of Bruce Lee on Yongqing Fang Street, where the legendary martial artist was born in 1940. As a Bruce Lee fan, I still remember my visiting his birthplace several years ago. Standing in those rooms where he took his first steps, seeing old family photos - it made his story feel real in a way movies never could.
In our Xiguan food tour, we'll take you to spots only locals know and time your visit to Bruce Lee's residence when it's less crowded.
4. Take a Pearl River Night Cruise
Guangzhou Pearl River Night CruiseJanuary evenings are cool but not cold - perfect for a river cruise. As the sun sets around 6 PM, the city lights begin to glow. Aboard a cruise boat and glide past illuminated landmarks: Canton Tower's LED light show, historic European buildings on Shamian Island, and modern skyscrapers reflecting in the water.
The cool breeze off the river feels refreshing, not biting - you'll actually want to stay on the outdoor deck, not huddle inside. You'll want a light jacket, but you won't be shivering.
Best time:
The 7:30 PM departure catches the transition from twilight to full darkness. You'll see the city transform.
What to expect:
Cruises last 60-90 minutes. Most boats have both indoor and outdoor seating. Choose outdoor for the best views and fresh air. We recommend the third-floor VIP seats for a 360-degree view of the nighttime scenery and skylines along both banks of the Pearl River.
Tickets can be booked via the "Pearl River Night Cruise" mini-program on WeChat. If you don't use WeChat, you can also purchase tickets at the pier counter. The main piers include Canton Tower Pier (recommended), Haixinsha Pier, and Tianzi Pier.
5. Enjoy A Rejuvenating Hot Spring at Conghua Bishui Bay
Conghua Hot SpringAs the cool January breeze sets in, it's the perfect season for a soothing hot spring retreat. Just about 1 hour's drive from downtown Guangzhou, Conghua is famous for its natural thermal springs. At Bishui Bay Hot Spring Resort, you can unwind in a variety of therapeutic pools, surrounded by misty vapors and lush greenery. Whether with family or friends, this is an ideal short trip to relax and recharge.
Highlights:
- Try different themed pools, such as herbal and floral baths.
- Enhance your experience with a spa or massage treatment.
- Stay overnight for a tranquil evening under the stars.
What to Wear in Guangzhou in January
Think layers. That's the key to staying comfortable through January's temperature swings.
Here's what a typical January day looks like, wardrobe-wise:
- You start your morning at 8 AM heading to a tea house - light jacket, jeans, comfortable shoes.
- By noon, you're strolling through Shamian Island with the jacket tied around your waist, just a sweater keeping you comfortable.
- Come evening, you're on a Pearl River cruise, and that jacket is back on. See the pattern? Layers are your best friend.
Basic Outfit
Daytime:
- Long-sleeve shirt or light sweater
- Jeans or long pants
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or cardigan (you'll take it off by noon)
Evening:
- Add a warmer jacket or fleece
- Scarf (optional but nice for early mornings)
Plan Your Visit to Guangzhou with China Highlights
Whatever dates you choose, January's cool, dry weather makes exploring Guangzhou a pleasure. If you'd like help tailoring your trip - from booking the best tea houses to timing your visit around Chinese New Year - we're here for that.
We specialize in creating personalized itineraries that match your interests and travel style, handling details so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Contact us to start planning your January adventure in Guangzhou.
Guangzhou Climate Information by Month
- Guangzhou Weather in January
- Guangzhou Weather in February
- Guangzhou Weather in March
- Guangzhou Weather in April
- Guangzhou Weather in May
- Guangzhou Weather in June
- Guangzhou Weather in July
- Guangzhou Weather in August
- Guangzhou Weather in September
- Guangzhou Weather in October
- Guangzhou Weather in November
- Guangzhou Weather in December
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