China in the Fall: Destinations, Weather & Travel Tips
With its pleasant weather and charming scenery, fall is the perfect time for traveling to China. In this article, you will read the introduction of weather, the best places to stay, festivals and events, and some travel trips. Immersed in the stunning autumn scenery, you can explore the beauty of China and feel the unique charm of this season.
When Is Fall in China
Stunning autumn view in China
Fall in China is the harvest season, usually from September to November. During this time, you can see the autumn leaves and enjoy the refreshing, cool weather.
What Is the Weather Like in China in the Fall
Autumn Temperature of Major Tourist Cities in China
Fall is a season of alternating heat and cooling. Due to the vast territory of China, the weather in the fall is variable. The average temperature in northern China is around 16°C to 26°C in September, gradually dropping to 8°C to 19°C by November. Meanwhile, southern China tends to remain warmer, with temperatures basically around 25°C to 31°C in September and cooling to 19°C to 27°C by November.
Charming Fall Vacation Destinations
1. Beijing - Ancient Capital Charm
The Great Wall in autumn
In the fall, Beijing's golden fall scenery will bring you into a colorful visual feast. The red walls and golden ginkgo leaves of the Forbidden City reflect each other, showing the royal majesty and autumn romance. Every year in mid-October, the best Xiangshan viewing time arrives as anticipated. Fragrant Hills Park (Xiangshan Park) has about 30 varieties of fall foliage. You may stroll through the park, take in the old buildings, and enjoy cool fall days as you're viewing the red leaves.
For those who love to take photos, Jinshanling Great Wall is a good place to go, as it offers breathtaking views of fall foliage against the majestic Great Wall, creating an unforgettable experience.
2. Shanghai - Urban Elegance
The skyscrapers in Shanghai
The fall weather of Shanghai is pleasant and sunny, making it a perfect time to explore the city where modernization and tradition coexist. You can stroll along the Bund and enjoy the autumn breeze, which is the best way to see the Bund architecture.
If you are a landscape or food lover, you can visit Yu Garden, a classical Chinese architectural style garden with deep history and culture in which you can enjoy exquisite pavilions, lakes, rockeries, and more. The nearby Yu Garden Market offers a variety of authentic snacks that will surely satisfy your appetite. If you want to feel the ancient atmosphere, Zhujiajiao is a good choice, where stone bridges, ancient wells, and waterways make up its unique water town style. You can take a cruise on the canal and enjoy the panoramic view of the town and the reflection of the ancient buildings on the shore.
3. Guilin - Golden Rice Terraces & Breathtaking Countryside
Longsheng Rice Terraces in autumn
Guilin is a city suitable for traveling in all seasons. When you visit Guilin in the fall, you will feel that the city is full of osmanthus fragrance. Walking in the city, as if you are in the sea of osmanthus, enjoy this unique autumn fragrance and romance. Guilin in the fall is colorful, especially if you stand on the observation platform of Longsheng Rice Terraces. Looking around, you can see a golden landscape, with rice ears swaying gently in the breeze, creating spectacular rural scenery.
In this beautiful season, you can cruise the Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo and appreciate the scenery from both sides of the river. Do you enjoy outdoor activities? Then don't miss the Yangshuo countryside tour. You can cycle through the country lanes, enjoy the serene landscape and quaint villages, and communicate with the villagers along the way to feel their way of life.
4. Huangshan - Tranquil Peaks and Autumn Splendor
Mount Huangshan
Huangshan in the fall is like a magical picture, showing the most fascinating colors and landscapes of nature. Located in Anhui Province, Huangshan is famous for its steep mountains, strange rocks, and changeable sea of clouds, and it is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. The weather in Huangshan in autumn is relatively mild, with less rainfall. You can hike in Huangshan and feel the magic of nature.
The grotesque rocks of Huangshan vary in shape, and you may find that one mountain looks like a monkey and another like a rooster, but the fun is still to be explored on your own. The ancient pine is the soul of Huangshan; these vigorous old trees grow in the cracks between the rocks, bearing the vicissitudes of thousands of years. The sea of clouds in Huangshan is truly captivating; in the early morning or at dusk, standing on the top of the mountain, shrouded in clouds and mist, you may feel as if you've entered a fairyland.
5. Zhangjiajie - Fall Wonderland
Avatar mountains in Zhangjiajie
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into the fantasy world of Avatar? Now, Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is turning your dream into reality. As the location of the Hallelujah Mountains in the Avatar movie, Zhangjiajie attracts tourists from all over the world with its unique peak forest landscape and magnificent natural scenery.
If you are adventurous, then Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon's glass bridge is a good choice. One of the world's longest and highest glass bridge is hung over the steep canyon; on the transparent deck, you will feel the thrill of hanging in the air and spectacular natural beauty.
In addition, a hike in Tianmen Mountain is also worth a try. You can also choose to take a cable car to enjoy the scenery along the way, and when you reach the top of the mountain, you will see the misty scenery and the gorgeous fall colors. Heaven's Door of Tianmen Mountain, along with its vast mountain scenery, will add a distinctive touch to your photography.
6. Yunnan - Exotic Ethnic Lifestyles
Xizhou Ancient Town in Dali, Yunnan
If you go to Yunnan in the fall, you will feel that it is a worthwhile trip. Dali's ancient city walls, tranquil Erhai Lake, and distinctive Bai architecture are all incredibly charming. You can ride along the banks of Erhai Lake, feel the breeze on your face, and enjoy the ease and beauty. Shangri-La can add a magical experience to your trip. As the first morning sun touches the snow-covered mountain, you can see the breathtaking scenery with its dazzling and entrancing golden light. If you are a hiking enthusiast, then don't miss the classic hiking route - Tiger Leaping Gorge, which shows an overwhelming symphony of crashing waves and roaring rivers, and enjoy the scenery while hiking, experiencing an indescribable audio-visual feast.
7. Jiuzhaigou - Fairyland in the Fall
Jiuzhaigou
Jiuzhaigou in the fall is like a fairy tale world. It is the most beautiful time of the year. The colorful forests, the blue lake, and the mountains make up a breathtaking picture. Autumn in Jiuzhaigou has moderate temperatures and fresh air, which is perfect for hiking and capturing breathtaking scenery. You can walk along the wooden road and enjoy the unique charm of scenic spots such as the Five Flower Lake and Five-Color Pool. The magnificent NuoRiLang waterfall is especially stunning in the fall, and you will feel a great visual impact. At the same time, you will also have the opportunity to experience the local traditional Tibetan culture, taste authentic food, and enjoy a feast of sight and taste.
8. Guizhou - Natural Wonders and Cultural Treasures
Dong ethnic village in Guizhou
Guizhou has unique ethnic customs and magnificent natural scenery, and the Red Clouds Golden Summit is one of the core sacred places of Mount Fanjing, where you can experience a peaceful Buddhist pilgrimage.
After the pilgrimage, you can look out at the mist-covered Mount Fanjing and feel surrounded by the clouds. Autumn brings a harvest field to Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, where you can enjoy the traditional Miao song and dance performance and taste authentic ethnic food, especially during the Miao New Year. Photography enthusiasts have a fantastic opportunity to capture beautiful lakes, pouring waterfalls, and surrounding forests at the Xiaoqikong Scenic Area during the fall season. Guizhou's pleasant fall climate is ideal for enjoying the natural scenery and experiencing the rich ethnic culture.
Festivals & Events in the Fall
1. Mid-Autumn Festival
The trees and clear sky in autumn in China
The Mid-Autumn Festival is an important festival in China and usually falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month. This festival represents reunion in China. Family and friends usually get together and enjoy the joy of reunion. On this day, people will get together to admire the full moon while eating moon cakes. If you travel to China in the fall, attending the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations will be a unique cultural experience. In some regions, lantern fairs and guess lantern riddles will be held. This is a great opportunity to learn more about Chinese culture and traditions and make your trip more colorful.
2. Miao New Year in Guizhou
Miao New Year, also known as nongx yangx, is an important traditional festival for Miao people in Guizhou to worship their ancestors and celebrate harvest. It is generally held at the end of the autumn harvest and the end of the agricultural work of the year (most of the time is between October and November of the lunar calendar). There are various folk activities out there, including dragon boat racing, bullfighting, horse racing, Lusheng dancing, etc. In addition, sumptuous traditional feasts such as sour soup and pickled fish are prepared during the Miao New Year so that you may enjoy the authentic Miao flavor.
3. Double Ninth Festival
The Double Ninth Festival is a traditional Chinese folk festival that falls on the 9th day of the ninth lunar month every year. This festival falls on October 11th this year. The primary purpose of this festival is to commemorate the ancestors and pray for the elderly to live a long life. The Double Ninth Festival has a variety of activities, including traditional customs such as climbing mountains, enjoying chrysanthemum flowers, and eating Double Ninth cake. Wearing dogwood is also an important custom that is believed to prevent diseases and disasters. When you travel to China during the Double Ninth Festival, why not participate in these traditional activities and feel the festive atmosphere?
China Fall Travel Tips
Fall Packing Tips
Fall foliage in China
When traveling in the fall, it is recommended to bring some light jackets; a light jacket can help you stay warm in the morning and evening when the temperature drops, ensuring comfort during travel. In addition, the weather is dry in the fall, so it is advisable to bring some moisturizing skincare products to protect your skin from the dry air.
Book Earlier
The fall is the peak season for travel in China, so it is recommended that you plan and book your trip as early as possible to ensure you get the ideal flights and accommodations, as well as more discounts. Besides, it is recommended to avoid traveling during the National Day Holidays (October 1st to 7th), which is the peak period of tourism. By planning and booking in advance, you will not only save money but also ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
How to Plan Your Fall Tour in China
When you plan to travel to China, consider your interests, budget, and travel time. For first-time visitors to China, Beijing and Shanghai are must-see cities that offer a combination of historical landmarks and dynamic city life. For photography enthusiasts, Guilin, Jiuzhaigou, and Zhangjiajie are also good choices. If you want to save your mind and effort, you can choose to travel with us; no matter which destination you choose, we'll craft the perfect travel plan to meet your interests and budget. Contact us at trip@odynovotours.com, or simply click here to send us an inquiry. Let China Odyssey Tours offer you an unforgettable experience in China.
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