China in February：Where to Go, and Is It a Good Time to Visit?

February is a good time to visit China if you're interested in winter scenery and festivals, cultural events, and getting a good deal on flights and accommodation. The weather varies dramatically by area, so it's smart to choose wisely for your needs, and remember that Chinese New Year falls during this month, so key destinations and attractions will be busier during that time. This guide will tell you everything you need to know to make your February Chinese vacation as enjoyable as possible!

Snowy view of Summer Palace in Beijing

How Is the Weather in China in February?

Since China is massive, you can expect chillier and even snowy conditions in the north and west and warmer temperatures in the south.

Northern China

The Forbidden City in Beijing

Temperatures in Northern China generally run between 4°C (39°F) and -8°C (17°F) during the day and can drop as low as -20°C (-4°F) after the sun sets. Cities like Beijing have an average temperature of 2°C (36°F), and places like Harbin, which are at a higher latitude, average -13°C (9°F).

Eastern China

Eastern China is warmer than Northern China, so the weather is chilly but manageable. You'll find temperatures that range from 2°C (36°F) to 9°C (48°F) in this part of the country. Places like Hangzhou have an average temperature of 8°C (46°F), and you can expect average temperatures of 7°C (45°F) in Shanghai.

Western China

Snowy peaks of Mount Everest in Tibet

The dry, cold, high-altitude climates of Tibet and other parts of Western China mean that you'll encounter frosty temperatures when you're there. This area averages -1°C (30°F). Tibet is exceptionally cold, with an average temperature of -4°C (25°F) in Lhasa. Xinjiang is warmer, with average temperatures of 3°C (37°F), with temperatures at a reasonable 9°C (48°F) during the day.

Southern China

Southern China is an excellent place to go if you're looking for warmer weather, with an average of 16°C (61°F). Cities like Gulin average 13°C (55°F), and Hong Kong is particularly nice during this month with 18°C average temperatures (64°F), so you can enjoy outdoor activities in just a light jacket.

Best Places to Visit in February

Regardless of whether you're interested in warmer, southern temperatures or the chilly metropolis of Beijing, there's plenty to do during February in China. We can help put together an itinerary that truly suits your needs.

Beijing

Try Tanghulu in a hutong in Beijing

Beijing tends to be fairly cold during February, but the low season means that you can see some of its top highlights without fighting your way through the crowds. There are fewer people at both the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City, plus, both of these destinations look absolutely magical when they're covered in a light dusting of snow. Beijing is also a fantastic place to enjoy some of China's most delicious food, including warming hotpot, and there are some excellent museums you can visit if you need a break from the cold.

Xi'an

Ancient City Wall in Xi'an

Like Beijing, one of the biggest draws of visiting Xi'an in February is the chance to see incredible highlights like the Terracotta Warriors with comparatively fewer crowds. Plus, this city is aglow for the season, with gorgeous lanterns lining the streets and near the Ancient City Wall. You'll also find delicious food in the Muslim Quarter, ideal for warming up after a day of exploring.

Both Xi'an and Beijing are must-visit destinations for first-time visitors and will give you a great overview of what the country has to offer.

Luoping in Yunnan

Rapeseed field in Luoping

Luoping's rapeseed flower fields start blossoming in February and March, making this spot a great place for people who want to photograph these golden blooms. We suggest taking pictures early in the day when you can avoid the crowds and secure a good spot.

Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi

Pingyao Ancient City in Shanxi

Pingyao Ancient City is an excellent place to celebrate Chinese New Year, especially if you're interested in folk performances or traditional red lantern displays. Pingyao Ancient City hosts temple fairs, which host time-honored New Year traditions. It's a unique and very authentic place to celebrate this important Chinese festival.

Guilin and Yangshuo

View of Li River in Guilin at dusk

Guilin and Yangshuo are magical in February, when the scenery is cool and misty under the light, gentle spring rain. Cruise down the Li River, take a bike ride or hike through the natural beauty, and enjoy the incredible karst formations. Plus, hotels are much less expensive in Yangshuo during February, so you'll get a nice deal.

Crowds and Costs in February

One of the key reasons February is such an appealing month to travel to China is the costs. You'll find competitive hotel and airline prices and generally fewer tourists. The large exception to the rule is Chinese New Year, and traveling during this time has its pros and cons.

The Chinese New Year holiday typically lasts between 7 and 8 days, and there's a lot of domestic travel. Public transportation can be crowded, and some attractions are much more crowded. On the other hand, you'll experience a traditional festival atmosphere complete with lovely red decorations everywhere, unique traditions, and fireworks.

Travel Advice and Packing Tips

• Keep Chinese New Year dates in mind before finalizing your February travel plans.
• Book your accommodations, flights, and trains well in advance around the Chinese New Year holiday.
• Prepare to be flexible with transportation around Chinese New Year, and build yourself a bit of buffer time to travel from place to place.
• Pack for the weather. In Northern and Western China, you'll want to bring plenty of thermal layers and a waterproof jacket. Layers are also helpful in Eastern China, and you might want to consider packing an umbrella for those damp days. In Southern China you'll need a light jacket, but you also should consider bringing a few sweaters in case it gets cold at night.
• Consider booking some indoor attractions to take a break from the cold.

Plan Ahead, and Have a Fantastic Time in February

February is a unique and memorable time to visit China, as long as you pack ahead and choose your destination strategically. Let us help you plan a vacation that you'll always cherish. Visit our contact page or email us at trip@odynovotours.com, and talk to one of our trusted agents today.