Is November a good time to visit China? Absolutely. November sits in a sweet spot — after the peak-season crowds have gone but before the deep winter chill sets in.
This means you get a calmer, more relaxed travel experience without sacrificing comfort.
It's also one of the most beautiful months for scenery. The mountains and parks turn red, gold, and amber, and the skies stay clear thanks to the dry autumn weather.
On top of that, November offers practical advantages: fewer tourists, better prices, and excellent conditions for sightseeing. So if your travel dates are flexible, don't feel limited to October — November can often be the smarter choice.
China Weather in November: Overview
November is the beginning of the real winter weather in China's northern and high-altitude areas. North China gets crisp, cool, and clear weather.
You'll have a good chance of catching the first snowfall in Harbin by mid-November. Average temperatures range from -10°C (14°F ) to 0°C (32°F).
While the Ice and Snow Festival hasn't started yet, you can already enjoy various winter activities. Yabuli Ski Resort usually opens around November 20–25. During this period, Harbin is relatively less crowded compared with the peak winter season.
South China benefits from warm and sunny weather, which is ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and shopping in the street markets. There is little rain. November and December are the most pleasant months.
Top 5 Places to Visit in China in November
Autumn scenery and leisurely outdoor activities are highlights of traveling in China in November.
If you enjoy landscapes, destinations like Huangshan and Guilin are excellent choices. Outdoor activities, such as hiking on the Great Wall, are also well-suited for November.
For urban experiences and culture coupled with pleasant weather, Shanghai and Hong Kong are good choices.
1. Huangling
HuanglingHuangling is honestly one of my favorite places to visit in November. This is when the village comes alive with its famous sun-drying autumn scene — locals spread out all kinds of colorful crops on bamboo trays, and the rooftops turn into a giant patchwork of reds, yellows, and golds.
November is when the colors are at their brightest and the variety is at its peak, so you really get the most out of the experience.
And as if that weren't enough, this is also the best time to catch the red maples and golden ginkgo trees at their prettiest. The combination of the harvest colors and the autumn foliage makes the whole village look like a living painting.
2. Tengchong
Ginkgo VillageThis is the best time to see the ginkgo trees—especially in Ginkgo Village in Gudong Town, where tens of thousands of century-old trees turn bright yellow and their falling leaves cover the whole village like a soft golden carpet.
Best time to see ginkgo trees in Tengchong:
- Start of color: Late October
- Very beautiful: November 5-20
- Peak: Late November 20 to December 5
After enjoying the ginkgo scenery, you can stroll through the peaceful lanes of Heshun Ancient Town or relax in Tengchong's famous hot springs.
With golden landscapes, charming old-town streets, and soothing hot springs, November in Tengchong is the perfect mix of beauty and relaxation.
3. Shanghai
French ConcessionShanghai is quiet in November, with a charming blend of autumnal colors and urban vibrancy.
The plane trees on both sides of the streets turn a golden hue, complemented by the gentle breeze and warm sunlight, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll in the former French Concession. You could see almost all of the architectural styles of old Shanghai there. There are also numerous cafés and museums.
As for the unmissable Bund, compared to a simple sightseeing trip for photo shoots, an in-depth walking tour, which we offer, with a local guide would take you into some old buildings and help you understand the stories behind them.
At night, we could carefully select a hotel with a rooftop bar for you. There, you could leisurely enjoy the night view of the Bund and the moon with a glass of wine.
Check out our newly launched 5-Day Shanghai and Hangzhou High Tech Tour.
4. Beijing
Forbidden City's ginko treesThe Great Wall and the Forbidden City, which are must-see attractions, have fewer tourists in November, which is undoubtedly one of the biggest advantages of visiting Beijing at this time.
November is also a wonderful time to see Beijing dressed in autumn colors. The city's famous ginkgo trees turn golden. Zhongshan Park, Temple of Heaven Park, Ditan Park, and even the Forbidden City are all glowing with yellow leaves.
Views of the Great Wall are still good in November. The Great Wall weaves through forests displaying their fall colors. The watchtowers and battlements seem to emerge from the foliage, offering breathtaking vistas that span the horizon.
If you want an exceptional night out in Beijing, you could start a food tour. From hidden snack bars in the hutongs to street-side shops that are popular with locals to renowned roast duck restaurants, you could sample Beijing's signature snacks, dishes, drinks, and desserts.
5. Huangshan
Our clients in the Yellow MountainsNovember also brings fewer crowds to the Yellow Mountains, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serenity of the mountains and fully appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings.
The crisp air carries a hint of winter, enhancing the clarity of the panoramic views.
November is one of the best times to see the seas of clouds between the Yellow Mountain peaks. As you ascend, misty veils often shroud the peaks, creating an ethereal atmosphere.
The granite peaks, twisted pines, and iconic stone pathways appear to float amid the seas of clouds, making for a truly otherworldly experience.
Bishan Village is also a highlight. You could walk around the village to see how artists have turned this small area into a rural utopia.
If you are interested in craftsmanship and Chinese culture, we recommend the experience of making traditional Chinese lanterns. It could be a great souvenir to take home.
If you are interested in a Huangshan tour, see our popular 7-Day Huangshan, Shanghai, and Hangzhou Tour
Recommended China Tours
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All of our tours can be adjusted or customized based on your requirements. See some of our popular itineraries for inspiration:
- 10-Day Beyond the Golden Triangle with Shanxi
- 12-Day Shanghai – Beijing – Hong Kong – Guangzhou – Zhangjiajie Tour
- More popular China Tours
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