China in March: Top Things to Do & Weather Tips

If your ideal vacation includes enjoying fragrant cherry, peach, and rapeseed flowers and comfortable temperatures, March is one of the best times to visit China. Plus, since it's not peak season, you will generally find more affordable accommodation rates and fewer crowds than at more popular times of the year. Learn why visiting China in March is a fantastic choice for spring travel.

Countryside view of Guilin in spring

What to Expect from March Weather

Aerial view of the Forbidden City in Beijing

The weather in March is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. You could see some lighter rain in the southern and eastern parts of the country, but the wet weather usually doesn't last long or disrupt traffic.

Light rainstorms and wind are common in Eastern China during this month, so packing a lightweight, waterproof jacket is a good idea, especially if you're planning to spend a lot of time outside. The weather in Southern China is warmer, with temperatures reaching the high 20s°C (low 80s°F) in places like Guangzhou.

Northern China tends to stay a bit cooler during this month, especially at night, so we advise visitors to bring plenty of layers, and Western China is fairly sunny and dry during the day, but the evenings are brisk. Below is a chart of average temperatures in each region.

Region	Average Temperature
Western China	8-16 °C (46-61 °F)
Eastern China	12-16°C (54-61°F)
Southern China	18-24°C (64-75°F)
Northern China	5-12°C (41-54°F)

Best Things to Do in China in March

China is alive with flowers during March. You'll find pale pink and white cherry blossoms, fragrant peach blossoms, and golden fields of rapeseed flowers throughout the country.

See the Cherry Blossoms

Cherry blossoms in Gucun Park, Shanghai

One of the best things to do in March is see cherry blossoms throughout the country. If you think it's too crowded to visit Japan for these spectacular flowers, consider visiting Wuhan, Wuxi, or Nanjing, China, instead.

• Wuhan is known as "Cherry Blossom City" with its over 500,000 cherry trees in places like Wuhan University and East Lake Cherry Blossom Park. We recommend visiting these spots early in the morning, when there will be fewer visitors and you'll get the chance to take some nice pictures of the blossoms without the crowds.
• Wuxi is another city full of cherry blossoms, and you'll see them in their complete glory from March to early April. It's also a highly convenient and easy city to reach, as it's just one hour away from Shanghai if you take the high-speed train. See these blossoms at Yuantouzhu Peninsula.
• Nanjing is an excellent place to go if you want to pair your cherry blossom spotting adventure with some historic architecture. You'll find cherry trees blooming at Jiming Temple, a 1,726-year-old masterpiece of Liang and Ming Dynasty design.

Discover Tibet in Early Spring

Basum Lake in Nynchi, Tibet

March is a fantastic time to discover Tibet, as it's still the low travel season. You'll find fewer crowds and better prices on attractions and accommodations. The weather is mild, which makes it a great time to explore outdoor attractions in the ancient capital city of Lhasa.

The eastern city of Nyinchi is full of amazing peach trees, which come into bloom from mid-March to late April. The annual Nyingchi Peach Blossom Festival is a must-see, and you'll enjoy traditional performances and the chance to enjoy some of the most beautiful flowers in China.

Enjoy the Spring Scenery in Wuyuan

Terraced rapeseed flowers in Wuyuan

The northeastern city of Wuyuan comes to life with golden fields of rapeseed flowers, making it one of the most picturesque spring destinations in China. You'll also see traditional Huizhou-style villages, which are set right against the region's waterways and are well-known for their distinctive white buildings with black roofs. If you love photography and want to get some unique pictures, Wuyuan is the spot to go.

Recommended China Tours

There's so much to see in China, and taking a tour is one stress-free and easy way to go through it all. These three options balance classic sights with off-the-beaten-path experiences and take you to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring places in the country.

China Off the Beaten Track: This 21-day tour hits all the highlights, including Xi'an's Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall of China, while also taking you to lesser-known UNESCO sites like Kunming Stone Forest.

Iconic China Tour With Yangtze Explore: You'll see all of China's iconic wonders like the Great Wall, Chengdu pandas, and Shanghai Bund on this 14-day adventure that celebrates food, culture, and an authentic glimpse into the country.

Spectacular China Tour With Lhasa: Head into the heart of one of China's most magnificent ancient cities, Lhasa, where you'll see the famed Potala Palace, Drepung Monastery, and Jokhang Temple.

Travel Tips

Hogwarts in Universal Beijing Resort

These travel tips will enhance your trip and help you have the most relaxing vacation on your visit to China.

• The Tibetan New Year is generally between February and March, and while traveling to Tibet is still possible, it's important to handle your Tibet Travel Permit well in advance. We can handle all the necessary permits you need.
• Since China's blooms are in their full glory in March, there tends to be a lot of pollen in the air. If you have a pollen allergy, please let us know, and we can customize your itinerary to avoid the peak pollen areas.
• Weather tends to be milder in much of China during March, but it's still a good idea to bring layered clothing and a light jacket. If you're traveling to a rainier part of the country, bring a waterproof outer layer and an umbrella as well.
• Book your accommodations ahead of time if you intend to visit Nyingchi for the Peach Blossom Festival.

Enjoy the Splendid Nature of March in China

China is a delight for the senses in March, when peach, rapeseed, and cherry blossoms are everywhere. It's an excellent place to visit if you love nature. Let us help you get there. Stop by our contact page or send us an email at trip@odynovotours.com to get started on your incredible vacation today.