Best Time to Visit Guizhou: Monthly Weather Guide

The most pleasant seasons in Guizhou are spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, rainfall is relatively light, and temperatures typically range between 10°C and 20°C. It is ideal for outdoor activities.

If you wish to experience both the most beautiful scenery and vibrant ethnic festivals, I highly recommend visiting Guizhou in April. During this time, you can

• admire the spectacular cherry blossom at the Pingba in Guiyang
• witness the breathtaking sea of azalea flowers covering the hillsides in Bijie (2 hours' drive from Guiyang).
• experience ethnic group's lively Sisters' Meal Festival or Sama Festival.

Time Schedule for the Main Festivals in Guizhou

Best Time to Visit Huangguoshu Waterfall

Huangguoshu Waterfall

If you want to see Huangguoshu Waterfall at its most spectacular, it's best to visit between May and August. This is when the waterfall's water flow is at its peak.

However, July and August fall during China's summer vacation. There will be large crowds leading to long waiting times (potentially over 2 hours). Therefore, May and June are excellent alternatives to consider.

Does It Snow in Winter in Guizhou?

Winter in Guizhou lasts from December to February. Most towns in Guizhou don't get snow in winter. In high-altitude mountain areas like Mount Fanjing, snowfall becomes more frequent during January and February, but access roads often close due to icy conditions.

Winter temperatures across most of Guizhou range from 3°C to 10°C. With a damp cold, you could feel more penetrating than the actual temperature.

You can continue reading for the month-by-month travel guide.

Guizhou's Monthly Weather: Travel and Packing Tips

Each month in Guizhou brings distinct weather patterns and unique seasonal activities. By understanding these climate characteristics in advance, you can choose the ideal time for your personalized journey.

January: Chilly Off-Season Travel

Mount Fanjing

January is Guizhou's coldest month, with average temperatures typically ranging from 3-8°C. In high-altitude areas like Mount Fanjing, temperatures often drop below freezing. While rainy days are limited (5-6 days), high humidity creates a penetrating chill.

January's cold weather means fewer tourists and quieter attractions. This month you can explore quieter ancient towns and villages. For a truly warming experience, try to visit Shiqian's hot springs (with more than 400 years' history, about 2 hours' drive from Kaili).

What to Wear: Dress in warm, wind-resistant layers. Start with thermal underwear and sweaters, then add a windproof down jacket or outer shell. Don't forget a hat, scarf, and gloves. Choose insulated, slip-resistant boots to navigate potentially wet or icy paths with confidence.

February: Winter's Chill Meets Spring Festival Cheer

Spring Festival in Miao Village

February marks the transition from winter to early spring in Guizhou. While temperatures show a slight increase, averaging 5-10°C, the cold persists with significant day-night variation. High-altitude areas like Mount Fanjing still experience freezing conditions.

The highlight of February is undoubtedly the Chinese New Year period. In early February, you could experience Guizhou's most vibrant celebrations. If you join our Guizhou customized tour, we will arrange for you to visit locations such as Qingyan Ancient Town and Zhaoxing Dong Village. Here you can watch spectacular dragon dances and traditional Dixi performances.

What to Wear: Like January, prioritize warmth and moisture protection. Layer with thermal underwear, wool sweaters or fleece mid-layers, and a windproof/waterproof down jacket or shell. A compact raincoat is particularly recommended for sudden showers.

March: Spring Beginning & Blooming Splendor

Pingba's Cherry Blossom

March welcomes true spring to Guizhou, with temperatures rising significantly to an average of 10-18°C. However, the day-night temperature variations remain, and occasional cold snaps may briefly drop temperatures below 10°C. Rainfall increases noticeably (10-15 days), characterized by gentle spring showers.

Tourist numbers in March grow considerably compared to winter months. But it remain far below summer crowds. This is an excellent value-for-money travel period.

From mid-March to early April, you can witness the spectacular bloom at Pingba's Cherry Blossom Garden (just one hour from Guiyang). There are thousands of cherry trees creating a sea of pink.

Meanwhile, two hours from Guiyang, the Bijie Hundred-Mile Azalea Area bursts into magnificent bloom. It is one of Guizhou's most breathtaking natural displays.

Bijie Hundred-Mile Azalea Area

Throughout ethnic villages, preparations for April's grand Miao Sisters' Meal Festival begin in earnest. There are dance rehearsals, song practices, and the polishing of elaborate silver headdresses. The communities are in an increasingly festive atmosphere.

What to Wear: Opt for long-sleeved T-shirts or light sweaters paired with a windproof jacket or shell. Rain gear (umbrella or raincoat) remains essential. Comfortable waterproof shoes will ensure stable footing on potentially damp trails.

April: Experience the Grand Miao Sisters' Meal Festival

Miao Sisters' Meal Festival

April brings exceptionally pleasant weather to Guizhou, with average temperatures ranging from 15-22°C. It is one of the most comfortable months for outdoor exploration. While rainfall increases further (10-15 days), it typically comes as brief showers or light drizzle. Days often alternate between brilliant sunshine and soft rain.

The good weather conditions attract significantly more visitors, with popular destinations becoming noticeably busier. For an optimal April visit, we recommend timing your trip with the Miao Sisters' Meal Festival (usually mid-April).

Known as the "most ancient Oriental Valentine's Day," this celebration features spectacular parades, antiphonal singing, drum dancing, and the unique tradition of sharing colorful "sisters' rice" (five-color glutinous rice).

Miao Sisters' Meal Festival parades

Meanwhile, the sea of azaleas in Bijie's Hundred-Mile Azalea Area reaches peak bloom, offering extraordinary photo opportunities.

What to Wear: Similar to March, wear long-sleeved shirts or light sweaters layered with a waterproof/windproof shell or lightweight jacket to accommodate temperature changes. Always carry rain gears.

May: Ideal Season for Water Fun & Magnificent Waterfalls

Huangguoshuo waterfall in Summer

May marks the arrival of summer in Guizhou, with temperatures climbing steadily to a pleasant 18-25°C on average. Rainfall increases significantly in both frequency and intensity, primarily appearing as afternoon or evening showers. Ample daylight hours and abundant rainfall combine to bring waterfalls and rivers to their most spectacular viewing period.

The first half of May (excluding the Labor Day holiday) remains relatively uncrowded. This month offers the perfect balance for visiting Huangguoshu Waterfall. The water flow is powerful and impressive, yet crowds remain far lighter than during the summer peak.

What to Wear: Light summer clothing will be good, but prepare for rain and temperature variations. Opt for short-sleeved shirts and thin pants, but always carry a waterproof/windproof jacket and rain gear to handle sudden showers and temperature differences.

June: Summer Retreat & Dragon Boat Festival Culture

Libo's Seven Small Arches Scenic Area

June sees temperatures rise further across Guizhou, averaging 20-28°C. However, frequent rainfall (15+ days) can cool off the summer heat. In high-altitude areas like Mount Fanjing, temperatures run 5-8°C cooler than cities. Rainfall peaks this month, often bringing brief afternoon downpours.

Though daylight hours are long, sunshine frequently alternates with rain. The abundant precipitation makes landscapes exceptionally lush and green.

If you are seeking a summer escape, June offers ideal conditions with less crowd than July-August. All water-based attractions reach their annual peak: Huangguoshu Waterfall, Libo's Seven Small Arches, and Maling River Canyon display tremendous power and grandeur.

Additionally, in cities like Guiyang, Kaili, and Duyun, you can witness unique Miao dragon boat training and races in preparation for the Dragon Boat Festival.

What to Wear: Opt for short sleeves and quick-drying fabrics, but always carry a lightweight waterproof jacket or raincoat. Choose slip-resistant hiking shoes or sandals for wet stone steps and streams.

July: Peak Summer Season in Guizhou

Doupotang Waterfall

Though July falls in midsummer, Guizhou's plateau mountain terrain keeps it among China's coolest regions at this time. The average temperatures are ranging around 22-28°C. The month remains within the rainy season, with brief showers or thunderstorms frequently occurring from afternoon through evening. You'll often experience quick transitions between sunshine and rain.

July coincides with China's summer vacation, making it Guizhou's busiest travel period. Major attractions become extremely crowded. If your schedule allows, we recommend avoiding this month.

What to Wear: Focus on cool, sun-protective, and rain-ready clothing. Daily wear includes shorts, T-shirts, skirts, and other summer outfits. Carry a light sun-protective jacket that also works for air-conditioned spaces. Given the sudden nature of rainfall, keep a compact umbrella or lightweight raincoat handy.

August: Lighter Rains & Harvest Celebrations

long-table feasts

August maintains temperatures similar to July, averaging 22-28°C. The rainy season tapers off, with brief but intense afternoon thunderstorms becoming the norm. Sunshine remains strong, though the air feels noticeably fresher after rains.

While visitor numbers remain high, crowds at major attractions become more manageable than in July. The month's highlight is experiencing the Miao and Buyi ethnic "Fresh Rice Tasting Festival" and harvest celebrations.

Village elders lead solemn ceremonies beside rice fields or at sacred spaces like drum towers and altars. You'll join communal long-table feasts where families open their paddies to catch fish, prepare poultry, and cook the season's first rice harvest into fragrant "new rice" dishes.

What to Wear: Similar to July: light summer clothing with sun and rain protection. Quick-dry shirts and pants are ideal daily wear.

September: Early Autumn & Ideal Time for Terraced Views

Zhijin Cave

September marks the early autumn in Guizhou. The average temperatures are dropping to a pleasant 18-25°C under clearer skies and drier conditions. The rainfall frequency and intensity is significantly reduced. This marks the start of stable and pleasant weather periods of the year in Guizhou.

With the summer crowds gone, September offers ideal conditions for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain climbing. This month also brings the gradual ripening of rice across the terraced fields, perfect for photo.

What to Wear: Layering works best. Short-sleeved or thin long-sleeved shirts suffice during the day, but carry a light jacket, cardigan, or windbreaker for cooler mornings and evenings.

October: Prime Season for Hiking & Mountain Climbing

Mount Fanjing in October

October brings cooler temperatures to Guizhou, averaging 14-22°C. Rainfall becomes scarce this month, making it one of the driest periods of the year. Clear or partly cloudy days dominate, offering ample soft sunlight and excellent visibility. It is perfect for mountain climbing and outdoor activities.

We recommend avoiding the National Day holiday week (October 1-7) due to extreme crowds at popular sites. October is ideal for climbing Mount Fanjing (a UNESCO site). The high visibility ensures the best photo opportunities. It's also the perfect time for hiking through karst landscapes, ancient towns, and ethnic villages.

What to Wear: Dress for significant temperature variations. The "onion layering method" works best: start with a long-sleeved T-shirt or thin sweater, then add a windproof jacket you can easily remove as temperatures change.

November: Cooler Weather & Miao New Year

the Miao New Year parade

November marks Guizhou's transition from late autumn to early winter. The temperatures are dropping significantly to an average of 9-16°C. Chill becomes more pronounced, and overnight temperatures in high-altitude areas may fall below freezing.

Rainfall remains limited, but overcast or cloudy skies dominate. While sunny days offer gentle sunshine, overall daylight hours continue to shorten, and morning fog is common.

Compared to October, visitor numbers decrease substantially in November. You could enjoy tranquility in scenic areas and excellent value for accommodation. If traveling in November, we recommend timing your visit with the Miao New Year (early November) to experience grand ceremonies, processions, and cultural performances.

What to Wear: Focus on warmth and cold protection. Opt for fleece or wool sweaters paired with a windproof heavy jacket or lightweight down coat. Accessories like scarves and hats provide effective defense against chilly winds and are recommended for daily use.

December: Winter Begins – Hot Springs & Rime Ice Views

Dong New Year Lusheng performances

December marks the beginning of Guizhou's winter, ranking among the coldest months with average temperatures of 5-10°C. High-altitude areas like Mount Fanjing often experience sub-zero conditions. Though rainy days are few, high humidity creates a penetrating chill.

Crowds thin significantly in December, allowing you to enjoy ancient towns and ethnic villages amid serene winter scenery. Toward month's middle, Dong villages begin to celebrate the Dong New Year (usually from mid-December). You could enjoy festive activities, including Lusheng performances, Dong dancing and singings in the village stage.

What to Wear: Prioritize warmth with layered clothing: start with thermal underwear, add a fleece or wool mid-layer, and top with a windproof/waterproof down coat or shell. Hats, scarves, gloves, and thick wool socks are essential to prevent heat loss.

Explore Guizhou with China Highlights

Can't decide which month to visit Guizhou? Book a customized Guizhou itinerary with us! Our expert advisors will help you select the perfect travel dates to match your expectations - letting you discover Guizhou's most beautiful landscapes and authentic ethnic culture, all while avoiding the crowds.

Consult the following itineraries for ideas about what's possible, but remember: everything can be customized.

• 6-Day Multi-Minority Adventure
• 6-Day Minority Festival Tour
• 10-Day Guizhou and Zhangjiajie Natural Wonders Tour

For yet more, check our latest Guizhou tours.