Yangshuo is world-famous for its stunning karst landscape. And it is best experienced through outdoor activities. Since these activities are highly weather-dependent, choosing the right time with favorable conditions is crucial.
I have lived and worked in Guilin for nearly 30 years and often spent weekends in Yangshuo. Based on my personal experience, there are two ideal periods for visiting Yangshuo's landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities.
One is from late April to mid-May, and the other is from late September to mid-November. During these times, the temperature is most comfortable, ranging from 18-26°C. The visibility of the Li River is at its highest. And there are relatively fewer rainy days.
Yangshuo shares a similar climate with Guilin. It features long warm periods and short cold time. Even in the coldest month (January), daytime temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F).
The hottest months are July and August, with daytime highs between 30-36°C (86-97°F). On 3-5 days during this period, temperatures may exceed 36°C (97°F). The rest of the year offers mild and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
The Worst Time to Visit Yangshuo
When it comes to weather that most affects outdoor activities, the rainy season from late May to June is the most impactful. During this period, there are frequent and concentrated rainfalls. For example, in June of this year (2025), there were over 20 rainy days, mostly consisting of showers lasting between half an hour to an hour.
Occasionally, heavy downpours occur, causing the water level of the Li River to rise and even triggering floods. This can disrupt your travel plans, such as cruise suspensions or road closures.
Summer Vacation: Another less ideal time is China's summer vacation period in July and August. During this time, large number of domestic tourists visit Yangshuo. The popular attractions are extremely crowded. Combined with the hot weather, the outdoor experience isn't ideal.
If you do visit during this season, we recommend exploring some lesser-known, cooler spots with us. Try to paddleboard on the Yulong River or venture into hidden caves that most outsiders don't even know about.
Public Holidays: Aside from summer vacation, public holidays like Chinese New Year, Labor Day (May 1st to 5th), and National Day (October 1st to 7th ) are also not very recommended. Yangshuo becomes extremely crowded during these times.
You could wait with long time at attractions (often over 40 minutes). Additionally, last-minute ticket purchases are usually unavailable for most scenic spots. We recommend booking at least one month in advance.
Yangshuo's Monthly Weather & Travel/Packing Tips:
January
Yangshuo in JanuaryJanuary is the second month of winter in Yangshuo. And it is also one of the coldest months of the year. The daytime temperature stays between 12-15°C (53-59°F), while nighttime temperatures drop to about 7°C (45°F). Sunshine is limited (4-5 hours per day), and cloudy skies dominate (more than 20 days).
As January is the low tourist season, Yangshuo feels peaceful. You could enjoy tranquil countryside views. Since the weather is chilly, we recommend exploring nearby villages by car and joining local activities. For example, in Xiatang Village, learn to make glutinous rice cakes with locals. Savor oil tea, a regional specialty, while discovering local customs.
What to Wear: Keep warm by thermal layers, such as a thick coat, long underwear, sweaters, and a down jacket.
February
February marks the last month of winter in Yangshuo. The daytime temperatures are around 12°C (54°F) and nighttime temperatures are near 8°C (46°F). The weather remains similar to January, but rainfall increases slightly. You can expect around 13 days of light rain. The frequent drizzles often create mist over the Li River, reducing visibility. It is less ideal for mountain hikes or riverside photography.
This month usually includes Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), which mostly falls in late January or early February. Visiting Yangshuo during this time lets you experience traditional festivities. The streets are adorned with red couplets and lanterns. And there are occasional sounds of firecrackers celebrating the holiday.
At Yangshuo Limo Tea House, you can watch Chinese tea-whisking performances. Try your hand at writing Spring Festival couplets, or paint holiday-themed artwork to take home as souvenirs.
What to Wear: Like January, warm layers are essential. A lightweight down jacket is a practical choice.
March
Yangshuo outdoor activitiesMarch marks the beginning of spring in Yangshuo. After mid-March, temperatures rise noticeably. The daytime averages exceed 20°C (68°F), while nighttime temperatures stay above 12°C (54°F). Rainfall remains frequent (around 12 days), but most precipitation comes as light showers. The rain rarely disrupt your travel plans.
From late March to early April, the countryside bursts into bloom with rapeseed flowers. Ride a vintage sidecar and visit nearby villages like Jima Village or along the Yulong River. You could witness vast golden fields.
What to Wear: Try to wear layered clothing, such as a removable jacket, lightweight down coat, or cardigan. This will let you adjust to temperature changes easily.
April
April brings even warmer weather to Yangshuo. After mid-April, daytime temperatures average around 27°C (81°F), while nights' stay mild at 18°C (64°F). Rainfall patterns remain similar to March, with occasional light showers.
In early April, beyond the rapeseed flower fields, the pleasant weather is perfect for cycling or hiking. Try shorter routes less affected by rain. For example, the route from Yulong Bridge to Jiuxian is about 5 kilometers. It takes roughly 1.5 hours on foot, allowing you to immerse yourself in Yangshuo's idyllic countryside scenery.
What to Wear: Continue layering. Mornings and evenings may require a light jacket, but midday warmth calls for short sleeves.
May
Rice seedling in MayMay marks the early summer in Yangshuo. The daytime temperatures are climbing above 28°C (82°F), occasionally reaching over 33°C (91°F). Nights remain pleasant at around 21°C (70°F). Rainfall persists (about 18 days), but showers are mostly brief (30-minute) afternoon or evening downpours. Plan flexibly: schedule outdoor activities for mornings and indoor explorations for rainy afternoons.
Avoid Labor Day (May 1st to 5th ). The big crowds and ticket shortages will ruin the experience. In mid-to-late May, hike or cycle along the Yulong River on clear days. You might witness farmers plowing fields or transplanting rice seedlings. Some of our guests have even tried plowing with water buffaloes!
What to Wear: A short-sleeve T-shirt + light jacket is ideal. Peel off layers by midday when temperatures peak.
June
June brings even higher temperatures to Yangshuo. The daytime highs often exceed 32°C (90°F). It's also the wettest month of the year, with over 20 rainy days. While showers are typically short (under an hour), they can be heavy. The frequent downpours may cause riverside flooding in some areas.
It is wise to monitor the weather closely for outdoor plans. On stormy days, opt for indoor activities like cooking classes or fan painting.
What to Wear: Stay cool in lightweight short sleeves and shorts. Always carry sunglasses, sunscreen, and an umbrella.
July
July is one of Yangshuo's hottest months. The daytime temperatures often exceed 34°C (93°F) and occasionally surpass 36°C (97°F). Compared to June, rainfall decreases significantly. There are just 6-8 rainy days, mostly brief showers under 30 minutes.
As July falls during China's summer vacation, Yangshuo gets crowded. Choose our customized Guilin tours to beat the heat with water activities and cave explorations in lesser-known spots.
Instead of exploring the crowded Reed Flute Cave, we recommend visit Shuiyan Cave. Here you would discover raw, untouched caverns (unknown even for many locals). At Yulong River, try to avoid long bamboo raft queues by trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) instead. For a cooler experience, take a Li River cruise to enjoy the scenery.
What to Wear: Light, breathable clothing + sun protection. If swimming, pack a swimsuit, goggles, and quick-dry gear.
August
Bamboo Rafting in YangshuoAugust shares similar weather patterns with July. It features high daytime temperatures averaging around 34°C (93°F), with peaks reaching 37°C (99°F). Rainfall remains minimal (6-8 days of short showers), and skies are mostly cloudy or sunny.
Though still part of summer vacation, tourist crowds thin out significantly after late August. For a more relaxed visit, plan your trip for mid-to-late August. Recommended activities are including water sports, cave explorations, and Li River cruises to escape the heat.
What to Wear: Same as July, prioritize light, breathable clothing and sun protection.
September
September marks the beginning of autumn in Yangshuo, though daytime temperatures remain high at around 33°C (91°F). Nights become cooler, averaging 25°C (77°F). Rainfall further decreases to just 5-6 days, mostly brief showers.
With the summer vacation over, crowds return to normal levels. While daytime heat persists, activities like bamboo rafting/paddleboarding on the Yulong River are still enjoyable.
By late September, cooler weather makes it ideal for countryside hikes, cycling, or rock climbing.
What to Wear: Light, summer-appropriate clothing is still suitable, but don't forget sun protection.
October
Helping the farmers harvest rice.October boasts the finest weather in Yangshuo, with daytime temperatures ranging between 18-28°C (64-82°F). Rainfall is minimal. There are just around 2 days of brief showers. It is perfect for outdoor activities.
- Hiking along the Li River (check out our Guilin hiking routes);
- Summit photography (e.g., capturing the Li River's "First Bend" from Xianggong Hill);
- Countryside cycling, caving, rock climbing, or via ferrata.
- Try to avoid October 1-7 (China's National Day holiday) when crowds surge.
What to Wear: After mid-October, pack warm layers (sweaters + jackets) for cooler evenings.
November
Hiking in NovemberThe first half of November offers weather as pleasant as October. The daytime temperatures are ranging between 14-25°C (57-77°F) and mostly clear skies. However, temperatures drop significantly in late November as winter approaches. The daytime highs decrease by about 10°C, while nights become chilly at 7-10°C (45-50°F).
Early to mid-November is an excellent time to visit, with comfortable weather, fewer crowds (unlike October's peak season). And you can enjoy lower off-season prices for hotels and flights.
What to Wear: By late November, bundle up in thick sweaters, coats, or down jackets to stay warm.
December
December marks the start of winter in Yangshuo. Daytime temperatures average around 16°C (61°F), occasionally dropping as low as 9°C (48°F), The strong winds common in Guilin winters make it feel even colder.
With fewer tourists, winter is perfect for experiencing Yangshuo's tranquil countryside and the laid-back vibe of West Street. Indoor activities add warmth to your itinerary. Such as, making oil tea in Xiatang Village, learning fan painting in Fuli Town or taking a cooking class.
What to Wear: Prioritize warmth with thick sweaters, insulated coats, thermal underwear, and down jackets.
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