Hangzhou has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons, where temperatures range from as low as 1°C in winter to a sweltering 34°C — and occasionally up to 40°C — in summer. Spring (March–May) warms gradually with temperatures between 10–26°C, though heavy rainfall makes an umbrella essential. Summer (June–August) is hot and intensely humid, with July and August being the hottest and rainiest months of the year, often affected by typhoons. Autumn (September–November) brings comfortable, clear weather with temperatures between 15–25°C, making it the best season for sightseeing. Winter (December–February) rarely drops below freezing, but a lack of indoor heating combined with high humidity makes the cold feel far more biting than the numbers suggest, with occasional snow or sleet.
Regardless of when you visit, rain is frequent throughout the year, so a compact umbrella is always a must. During summer, the air conditioning inside shops, restaurants, and transport can be brutally cold, so always keep a long-sleeve layer in your bag.
Hangzhou Weather by Season
Spring (March–May)
Spring in Hangzhou warms slowly from March, though early spring still feels quite chilly. Average temperatures rise from 9–16°C in March to 19–27°C by May, and by April the area around West Lake (西湖) bursts into full bloom — perfect for outdoor exploration. However, spring is one of the rainiest seasons of the year, with April alone averaging around 140mm of rainfall across 16–17 rainy days, so carrying an umbrella at all times is non-negotiable. Daily temperature swings are significant and humidity hovers around 70%, making layering essential.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is Hangzhou’s most demanding season. Temperatures soar from a low of 23°C to a high of 34°C, with extreme heat pushing the mercury above 40°C on some days. This is not a dry heat — the combination of high temperatures and high humidity creates an intense “steam room” effect, and July and August are both the hottest and rainiest months of the year. The rainy season (Meiyu) kicks off in June with a rainfall probability of 62%, followed by typhoon-driven downpours later in the season. Avoid prolonged outdoor activity in the middle of the day, and always carry a long-sleeve layer to cope with aggressively air-conditioned indoor spaces.
Autumn (September–November)
September still carries the tail end of summer’s heat, but from October onward temperatures settle into a comfortable 17–24°C with clear, dry weather — making autumn the undisputed best season to visit Hangzhou. October sees rainfall probability drop to just 22%, with an average of 11.5 hours of sunshine per day, offering bright, crisp days ideal for sightseeing. By November, temperatures cool further to 11–18°C, and the autumn foliage around West Lake and Lingyin Temple is at its most spectacular. From mid-October onward, daily temperature swings widen, so always have a jacket or cardigan within reach.
Winter (December–February)
Hangzhou winters average 3–10°C in January — not extreme on paper — but the region’s characteristically poor indoor heating combined with high humidity means indoor spaces can feel just as cold as outside. Sub-zero temperatures are rare, but the combination of sea breezes and moisture creates a biting cold that can surprise visitors. Rain falls roughly every two to three days, and light snow or sleet occasionally occurs between December and January. Although overall precipitation is at its lowest (December rainfall probability is around 22%), grey skies and short daylight hours give the city a subdued, wintry atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit Hangzhou
The best time to visit Hangzhou is spring (April–May) and autumn (October–November).
In spring, April stands out as the golden window — temperatures are mild at 14–22°C, West Lake’s surroundings are in full bloom, and the city is at its most photogenic for outdoor sightseeing. Just be prepared for frequent rain; by May, temperatures push toward 27°C and summer approaches quickly, making April the sweeter spot of the two spring months.
Autumn is Hangzhou’s premier travel season, and October is simply the best month to visit the city. With temperatures of 17–24°C, a low rainfall probability of just 22%, and over 11 hours of daily sunshine, it offers near-perfect outdoor sightseeing conditions. The autumn foliage around West Lake peaks from mid-October to early November, and the pleasant weather extends comfortably through November.
Summer (June–August) is the least recommended time to visit, as oppressive heat, the rainy season, and typhoon risks make for a challenging travel experience. Winter (December–February) is also difficult due to damp cold and the lack of indoor heating — though early to mid-December is still manageable if you pack accordingly.
Monthly Weather & What to Wear
January
Avg high: 8°C | Low: 1°C | Rainfall: ~59mm (~12 rainy days)
The coldest month of the year. Humidity of around 75% makes the temperature feel significantly colder than it looks, and many indoor venues lack adequate heating — so you may feel just as cold inside as out.
What to wear: Heavy down jacket or long coat layered over a thick sweater; scarf, gloves, and a warm hat are all necessary. Thermal leggings and warm socks are a smart addition for unheated indoor spaces.
February
Avg high: 11°C | Low: 2°C | Rainfall: ~88mm (~13 rainy days)
Despite hints of spring in the air, February is actually rainier than January, with frequent drizzle, occasional sleet, and persistently cold conditions.
What to wear: Heavy coat and sweater as a base; carry an umbrella at all times.
March
Avg high: 16°C | Low: 9°C | Rainfall: moderate
Spring officially begins but mornings and evenings still feel decidedly wintry. Overcast, drizzly days become more frequent.
What to wear: Don’t be fooled by the calendar — layer thin long-sleeve tops under a light jacket, and keep your umbrella close.
April
Avg high: 22°C | Low: 14°C | Rainfall: ~140mm (~16–17 rainy days)
Hangzhou’s most beautiful spring month, with flowers in full bloom around West Lake. However, April is one of the rainiest months of the year.
What to wear: Light sweater or cardigan under a thin jacket works well; opt for water-resistant footwear and keep an umbrella in your bag at all times.
May
Avg high: 27°C | Low: 19°C | Rainfall: frequent, humid
Temperatures rise quickly and the first hints of summer heat and humidity begin to emerge.
What to wear: Light t-shirts or thin long-sleeve tops; always carry a long-sleeve layer for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces.
June
Avg high: 30°C | Low: 23°C | Rainfall: 62% daily probability (rainy season)
The Meiyu (plum rain) season begins — this is the rainiest month of the year, with high heat and intense humidity making conditions feel oppressive.
What to wear: Breathable short or long-sleeve tops with a waterproof windbreaker or rain poncho; a sturdy umbrella or rain jacket is non-negotiable.
July
Avg high: 34°C | Low: 27°C | Rainfall: heavy, typhoon risk
The hottest and most humid month of the year. Tropical nights are common and UV levels are extremely high.
What to wear: Linen or cotton short-sleeve tops and shorts for maximum breathability; sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. Always keep a thin long-sleeve layer in your bag for the sharp contrast between outdoor heat and frigid air conditioning.
August
Avg high: 34°C+ | Low: ~27°C | Rainfall: heavy, typhoon risk
Equally hot and humid as July, with the added risk of typhoon-related downpours.
What to wear: Lightweight, moisture-wicking summer clothes; carry an umbrella at all times. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening and retreat to air-conditioned venues during midday.
September
Avg high: 29°C | Low: 23°C | Rainfall: decreasing but still present
Summer heat lingers into early September, though temperatures start dropping noticeably toward the end of the month.
What to wear: Summer clothes remain the base; pack a light jacket to adapt to the quickening temperature change as the month progresses.
October
Avg high: 24°C | Low: 17°C | Rainfall: ~22% daily probability
Hangzhou’s finest month — clear, dry, and comfortably warm, with autumn foliage in full swing around West Lake.
What to wear: A sweater or light jacket is the go-to; as daily temperature swings widen toward mid-month, always have an outer layer on hand.
November
Avg high: 18°C | Low: 11°C | Rainfall: one of the driest months
Cool, crisp late-autumn weather with plenty of sunshine. One of the most comfortable months for walking the city.
What to wear: A coat or thick jacket; mornings and evenings can dip below 10°C, so a scarf and light gloves are worth packing.
December
Avg high: 10°C | Low: 3°C | Rainfall: ~22% daily probability (driest month)
Full winter sets in — temperatures are moderate on paper but the high humidity makes the cold feel piercing. Light snow or sleet is possible.
What to wear: Heavy down jacket or winter coat layered over a sweater, plus a scarf and gloves. Many restaurants and accommodations have minimal heating, so pack thick indoor layers like thermal wear as well.
Important Travel Tips
High Humidity Year-Round
Hangzhou’s subtropical climate means humidity is high in every season. In summer, 70–80%+ humidity makes 30°C feel like 40°C. In winter, even 3–5°C feels far colder than it should. Always factor in humidity when deciding what to pack — temperature alone won’t tell the whole story.
Spring Rainfall
April averages around 140mm of rain across 16–17 days — meaning overcast or rainy days actually outnumber sunny ones. Carry a foldable umbrella or lightweight rain poncho at all times, and balance your itinerary with a mix of indoor and outdoor attractions.
Summer Heat & Heatstroke Risk
July and August can reach 40°C with high humidity, making heatstroke a genuine risk. Avoid outdoor activity between 12:00–15:00, stay well hydrated, and use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Shift outdoor activities to early morning or evening and spend midday in air-conditioned spaces.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Temperature Gaps
Hangzhou’s department stores, metro, restaurants, and buses crank air conditioning to extreme levels in summer, creating a 10–15°C gap between indoor and outdoor temperatures. No matter how hot it is outside, always keep a cardigan or thin long-sleeve top in your bag — especially for overnight bus or train journeys.
Lack of Indoor Heating in Winter
Like much of southern China, Hangzhou does not have centralized heating systems in many buildings. On days when it drops to 3–5°C, indoor spaces like restaurants and guesthouses can feel just as cold — or colder — than outside. Pack thermal underwear and warm indoor layers, not just outdoor gear.
Typhoons & Heavy Rain
Typhoons can bring strong winds and sudden heavy downpours, particularly in September and October. During typhoon warnings, outdoor attractions including areas around West Lake may temporarily close and boat services may be suspended. Check real-time weather forecasts before heading out on any day trip during this period.
Air Quality in Winter
Air pollution and fine dust levels can spike in Hangzhou during winter and early spring (December–March). Travelers with respiratory sensitivities should check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before heading out and consider wearing an appropriate particulate-filtering mask on high-pollution days.