Best Time to Visit Great Wall of China 2024/2025

When is the best time to visit the Great Wall of China? Many clients asked us. Our most recommended periods are the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), as the clear skies and cooler temperatures are ideal for taking a Great Wall walk.

But the answer is flexible for different people due to various preferences, as the climate and scenery there vary from season to season. Here is detailed information about the weather and views of the Great Wall in different seasons to help you make your travel plan.

Note: Since the most popular sections of the Great Wall are near Beijing, the ideal times to visit mentioned in this article refer to these areas.

Scenery of the Great Wall in Beijing, China

Great Wall Weather

The Great Wall of China near Beijing experiences four distinct seasons weather-wise. Here is a quick look to each seasons characteristics.

Spring (March - May): Ideal Travel Time

Spring View of the Great Wall

As spring approaches, the plants on the mountains start to turn green, and flowers start to bloom. Walking on the Great Wall, everything is fresh and beautiful.

Weather

The weather in spring is overall delightful. March is still quite chilly, with occasional wind and dust, and a big temperature drop between day and night. A warmer spring usually starts in early April and ends in early May, and this is one of the best times to visit the Great Wall when the daytime temperature is on average 11°C - 24°C (52°F - 75°F).

Crowding

Spring season is much less crowded compared to summer and autumn. But do avoid the first week of May (especially May 1 - 3, the Labor Day holiday), which is one of the Chinese "golden" travel weeks when traffic jams and overcrowding, as well as high prices of hotels, could affect your experience.

What to Wear

As we mentioned before, the temperature can vary, so it's highly recommended to pack layers to adjust it. A base layer like a moisture-wicking T-shirt, a mid-layer like a fleece or light sweater, and a windbreaker or light jacket are ideal.

Summer (June - August): Hot & Crowded

Summer View of the Great Wall

Summer provides beautiful scenery with lush plants. Everything is so bright, which makes it a good time for photography.

Weather

The summer months between June and August are a little hot and humid, with an average high temperature of 33°C (86°F). If you are visiting the Great Wall during this period, it is better to go earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the summer heat. Some sections, like Mutianyu, offer a night tour, which is also a good choice.

July and August are also the months with most of the year's rainfalls, so remember to bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect you from the strong sunlight, as well as an umbrella to protect you from the potential rainfalls.

Crowding

Summer is the peak tourist season due to the large number of domestic tourists during school vacations. Since many hotels raise their rates during this season, it is a good idea to book tours and hotels in advance or visit the Mutianyu Great Wall, which is also well repaired but with much fewer visitors than Badaling.

What to Wear

During the hot and humid summer at the Great Wall, staying cool and comfortable is crucial. Wear lightweight, breathable hiking shorts and T-shirts that dry quickly. And it's better in light colors help reflect sunlight. Additionally, a wide-brimmed hat is also essential to protect your face and neck from the intense sun.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

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Autumn (September - November): Best Time to Travel

Autum Colors of the Great Wall

Fall foliage provides some of the most beautiful scenery on the Great Wall. During this season, you can see the wall snaking along the colorful ranges.

Weather

Autumn is the season with the best weather, which is generally cool and comfortable with a blue and clear sky. With an average temperature range from 13°C - 23°C (55°F - 73°F), it's ideal for hiking.

Crowding

Autumn is also very crowded due to the good weather and beautiful scenery, many tourists choose this time to visit the Great Wall. Also try to avoid the first week of October (China’s National Day Holiday), which is another "golden" travel week for domestic travelers.

What to Wear

Autumn at the Great Wall can get chilly in the morning and evenings. You'd better wear a windproof jacket or light sweater for added warmth, especially in mornings and evenings. Besides hiking pants, you can take a legging in your bag to add under your pants on cooler days.

Recommended Tour Itinerary

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Winter (December - February): Fewer Traveler & Cost Less

Winter Scenery of the Great Wall

A winter visit to the Great Wall is a trade-off. While you'll experience the wonder of the Wall in a unique setting and avoid the crowds, you'll need to be prepared for the harsher weather conditions.

Weather

Winter is mostly cold and windy, with occasional snow. Temperatures can drop below freezing from -9.0°C - 1.0°C (15.8ºF - 33.8ºF). Check the weather report first if you are planning to hike, because if there is heavy snow blocking the roads leading to the sections, it is just impossible to do that.

Crowding

Winter is the least crowded season due to cold weather. But do avoid the Chinese New Year (January 29th - February 12th, 2025), during which many businesses close and public transportation is very crowded.

What to Wear

Since the temperature is usually well below freezing, you are advised to dress very warmly, including sweather, down jacket, etc., with winter accessories such as hats with ear flaps, gloves, scarves, and so on.

Plan Your Own Trip to the Great Wall

After reading this, you may find that, though we recommend the spring and autumn as the best time to visit the Great Wall of China, it is actually a year-round destination with unique charm in each season.

If you are planning a trip to China and want to explore the best the Great Wall has to offer, welcome to contact our seasoned travel expert for more information and advice.