Guilin operates under a subtropical monsoon climate, with an annual average temperature of around 21°C and consistently warm, humid conditions throughout the year. Annual rainfall exceeds 1,900mm, with roughly 50% of that concentrated during the rainy season from April to July.
Summers (June–August) are long and hot, though temperatures generally stay below 30°C — the high humidity, however, makes it feel significantly warmer. Winters (December–February) are short, relatively mild, and dry, with January averaging around 8–10°C, far gentler than a typical Korean winter. The best times to visit are spring (March–April) and autumn (September–November), when temperatures sit comfortably between 18–25°C, skies are clear, and conditions are ideal for Li River cruises and karst scenery.
Guilin Weather by Season
Spring (March – May)
Spring temperatures average a pleasant 12–24°C, making it one of the most comfortable seasons to explore Guilin. Spring rains and thick morning mist wrap the karst peaks in an ethereal, ink-painting-like atmosphere that is uniquely enchanting. From April into May, rainfall increases steadily as the rainy season approaches — always pack an umbrella or rain jacket. High humidity and significant temperature swings between day and night mean layering is essential. Spring is also when Guilin bursts into full bloom, with lush greenery and wildflowers bringing the landscape to life.
Summer (June – August)
Summer is Guilin’s hottest and longest season, with average temperatures ranging from 22–30°C. June has the highest rainfall probability of the year at 83%, and heavy downpours can severely limit outdoor activities. Although temperatures rarely exceed 30°C, the extreme humidity makes it feel far hotter. After rain showers, temperatures can drop sharply, so carrying a light jacket is still a good idea. On the bright side, heavy rains raise the Li River’s water level, making boat cruises more scenic and reliable.
Autumn (September – November)
Autumn, alongside spring, is widely regarded as the best season to visit Guilin. Daytime temperatures of 20–27°C are cool and comfortable, and rainfall decreases significantly, bringing plenty of sunny days. October is the driest month of the year, with only a 24% chance of rain — perfect for outdoor sightseeing and Li River cruises. By November, autumn foliage begins to set in, creating a stunning contrast of golden leaves against the iconic karst formations. Clear skies and excellent visibility make this the top season for landscape photography.
Winter (December – February)
Winter is Guilin’s shortest and coolest season, with temperatures ranging from 3–15°C. January is the coldest month, dipping as low as 2°C, though snowfall is rare and the weather stays relatively dry. It is milder than a Korean winter, but evenings and early mornings can feel quite cold, so a thick coat or padded jacket is necessary. The upside: far fewer tourists mean you can explore Guilin’s top attractions at a relaxed pace. On the rare occasion that snow falls, the karst peaks draped in white create a breathtaking and unique winter scene.
Best Time to Visit Guilin
The best times to visit Guilin are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are fully enjoyable.
In spring, particularly March and April, temperatures of 15–25°C and mist-draped karst peaks create a dreamy, almost surreal atmosphere that defines Guilin at its most magical. April is especially stunning — cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, and rising river levels make Li River cruises a highlight. Keep in mind that as April turns to May, the rainy season kicks in and rainfall increases sharply, so a waterproof layer is a must.
Statistically speaking, autumn is Guilin’s peak travel season, with the second week of October scoring the highest outdoor tourism rating of the year. From mid-September through November, rainfall drops dramatically, humidity eases, and daytime temperatures of 20–28°C offer ideal conditions for hiking, sightseeing, and photography. November adds a layer of beauty as autumn colors spread across the hills.
Summer (June–August) is best avoided if possible. Temperatures reach 24–33°C paired with oppressive humidity, and June–July sees relentless downpours that can disrupt outdoor plans. Winter (December–February) offers a quieter, more affordable experience, but low water levels limit Li River cruise operations and reduce the scenic impact of the river.
Guilin Monthly Weather & What to Wear
January
January is Guilin’s coldest month, with average temperatures of 5–13°C. Dry and breezy with occasional thick fog, it rarely drops below 2°C but mornings and evenings feel noticeably cold. Rainfall is low, so expect mostly clear skies.
What to wear: Heavy parka or winter coat, thermal pants, knit sweater, scarf.
February
February warms slightly to 7–14°C but remains cool and windy. Sunny and overcast days alternate as spring slowly approaches. Rising humidity can make the cold feel damper and more biting. If the Chinese New Year falls in February, popular attractions may get very crowded — book accommodation well in advance.
What to wear: Padded jacket or thick coat, knit sweater, thermal inner layers.
March
March marks the beginning of spring, with temperatures climbing from 11–18°C. Frequent spring showers and misty mornings create mystical views of the fog-shrouded karst peaks. Flowers begin to bloom, bringing fresh color to the landscape. Always carry an umbrella or waterproof jacket for unexpected showers.
What to wear: Trench coat or light jacket, long-sleeve shirts, knit layers.
April
April is one of the most enjoyable months to visit, with temperatures between 16–24°C. Cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers are in full bloom, and rising river levels improve Li River cruise conditions. Rainfall begins to increase, bringing more overcast and rainy days. Ideal for trekking and photography, but always be prepared for sudden showers.
What to wear: Light jacket or cardigan, long-sleeve top, slim-fit pants — and an umbrella is essential.
May
May transitions into early summer with temperatures reaching 20–28°C, warm and increasingly humid. The rainy season is fast approaching, so expect more frequent downpours and rapidly rising humidity. Short sleeves are comfortable during the day, but a light layer is needed in strongly air-conditioned indoor spaces. Popular tourist sites can get crowded, especially during holiday weekends.
What to wear: T-shirts, shorts or light trousers, a light outer layer, and an umbrella.
June
June is Guilin’s wettest month of the year, marking the full onset of the rainy season. Average temperatures hit 24–32°C with heavy, persistent rainfall roughly every other day. After the rain clears, mist rises dramatically off the karst peaks, creating hauntingly beautiful scenery. Going out without an umbrella is practically impossible, and flash flooding can occasionally disrupt travel plans.
What to wear: Breathable short sleeves and shorts, waterproof umbrella or rain poncho, waterproof footwear — all essential.
July
July is the hottest month in Guilin, with average highs of 32°C and lows of 25°C. Heatwaves are common, and with extreme humidity, the real-feel temperature can easily exceed 35°C. Rain eases slightly compared to June, but afternoon thunderstorms remain frequent. Focus your itinerary around indoor attractions to avoid the worst of the heat.
What to wear: Lightweight short sleeves and shorts, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a compact umbrella.
August
August remains hot and humid with temperatures averaging 22–31°C. Rainfall decreases from July’s peak, but afternoon showers and sudden thunderstorms are still common. High humidity means heavy sweating throughout the day — stay hydrated and protect yourself from UV rays. Being peak season, attractions and hotels are crowded and prices are at their highest.
What to wear: Moisture-wicking short sleeves and shorts, hat, sunglasses, and an umbrella.
September
September brings the first relief from summer’s heat, with temperatures easing to 22–30°C. Rainfall gradually decreases and skies begin to clear, signaling the start of the autumn travel season. By the latter half of the month, humidity drops enough to make hiking and outdoor sightseeing very pleasant. Some hot days linger, so keep a light layer handy.
What to wear: Short sleeves as the base, with a thin cardigan and an umbrella.
October
October is hands-down the best month to visit Guilin, with temperatures of 15–26°C and the lowest rainfall of the year. Clear, bright days let the karst formations and Li River shine at their absolute finest. Autumn foliage begins to appear, and conditions for hiking and river cruises are as good as it gets. Note that China’s National Holiday (October 1–7) brings massive domestic tourist crowds — book transport and accommodation well ahead.
What to wear: Long-sleeve shirts during the day, a light jacket or cardigan in the morning and evening.
November
November brings full autumn, with pleasant temperatures of 10–21°C and continued dry, clear weather. Autumn foliage peaks, making the contrast of colorful leaves against karst peaks especially photogenic. Low rainfall and blue skies make this an excellent month for outdoor photography. Temperatures drop quickly in the second half of the month, so warm layers are important.
What to wear: Light jacket during the day, a coat or thick knit sweater with long trousers in the evening.
December
December marks the start of winter, with temperatures of 6–15°C — cool, dry, and quiet. Li River water levels are low, potentially limiting cruise operations, but the lack of crowds means a relaxed sightseeing experience. On clear days, the serene winter light over the karst landscape has its own understated charm. Sub-zero temperatures are rare, but evenings can be genuinely chilly.
What to wear: Heavy coat or padded jacket, scarf, gloves — and a light rain jacket just in case.