Shanghai Weather Guide: Seasonal Climate, Monthly Weather & Recommended Clothing

Overview of Shanghai’s Climate

Shanghai enjoys a subtropical monsoon climate characterized by four distinct seasons with an average annual temperature of approximately 18°C. Summer (June-August) is hot and humid with high rainfall, while winter (December-February) is cold and dry. In contrast, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild and pleasant weather. The best times to visit Shanghai are spring and autumn, particularly from March to May and September to November, when climate conditions are optimal for tourism.

Seasonal Weather in Shanghai

Spring (March-May)

Spring is the most delightful season to visit Shanghai, with blooming flowers creating a picturesque landscape. Temperatures range from an average of 11-21°C, with mornings being cool while afternoons are pleasantly warm. Early spring experiences greater temperature fluctuations and occasional light rain.

Recommended Clothing: Light jackets, sweaters, and layered outfits work well. An umbrella is essential, and flexible dressing helps you adapt to morning and evening chills. This season is ideal for enjoying park walks, cherry blossom viewing, and Huangpu River cruises.

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Shanghai is hot and extremely humid, with July and August temperatures reaching above 35°C. The period from mid-June to early July experiences the “plum rain season,” bringing continuous rainfall and overcast skies that make travel challenging. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, and air-conditioned indoor venues become popular refuges.

Recommended Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics are essential. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and an umbrella are must-haves. Natural materials like cotton and linen are preferred to manage the high humidity and frequent rain.

Autumn (September-November)

Autumn is excellent for outdoor activities, with temperatures gradually descending from approximately 25°C in early autumn to around 15°C by late autumn. Golden plane tree leaves and gentle breezes create an ideal atmosphere for hiking and waterfront strolls along the Bund (Waitan). However, typhoon season from late August to mid-September brings strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Recommended Clothing: Layer long-sleeved shirts with sweaters and lightweight windbreakers as temperatures drop. Umbrellas are essential during typhoon season, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended for outdoor exploration.

Winter (December-February)

Shanghai’s winter is cold and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 3-11°C. High humidity makes the perceived temperature feel much colder than actual readings. Snowfall is rare in Shanghai. The coldest period occurs from late January through early February, with biting northern winds making warm accessories necessary.

Recommended Clothing: Waterproof coats, scarves, gloves, and warm hats are essential. Multiple layers of warm clothing are advisable due to high humidity affecting temperature perception. While snow is uncommon, the cold and damp conditions require proper insulation. Cultural experiences such as traditional folk performances and lantern festivals add charm to winter visits.

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Optimal Seasons

The ideal time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November).

Spring (March-May): Temperatures range from 10-25°C, cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom throughout the city, and parks become ideal for leisurely walks. Huangpu River cruises offer spectacular urban views. The mild weather and scenic beauty make spring one of the most popular seasons for visitors.

Autumn (September-November): Clear skies, abundant sunshine, and temperatures between 15-25°C create perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. The comfortable weather and reduced humidity compared to summer make autumn equally appealing for travelers seeking to experience Shanghai’s attractions without weather-related disruptions.

Seasons to Avoid or Plan Carefully

Summer (June-August): With humidity near 80% and temperatures ranging from 25-38°C, summer is hot and oppressive. The plum rain season in June brings continuous rainfall, making outdoor activities difficult. This period coincides with summer vacation crowds and is generally not recommended for comfortable travel.

Winter (December-February): Though temperatures range from 0-12°C in the off-season, Christmas atmosphere and festive shopping provide unique cultural experiences. However, the cold and dampness require thorough preparation. Winter is ideal for budget-conscious travelers avoiding peak season crowds.

Holiday Periods to Avoid

• Labor Day Holiday (May 1-5): Massive domestic tourism creates congestion at all major attractions
• National Day Holiday (October 1-7): Peak tourist season with booking difficulties for accommodations and transportation

Recommendation: Book accommodations and transportation in advance during these periods, or plan your Shanghai visit outside these holiday windows.

Monthly Weather & Recommended Clothing

January

Weather: January is Shanghai’s off-season when temperatures plummet from freezing to 8°C, making it the coldest month. With 75mm of rainfall, the weather is damp and chilly. The Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) and elaborate lantern festivals at Yu Garden offer rich cultural experiences.

Recommended Clothing: This is the coldest period, requiring waterproof coats, gloves, hats, scarves, and thermal shoes. Multiple layers of warm clothing are advisable, as high humidity makes the cold feel more severe.

February

Weather: February warms slightly from January with high temperatures around 10°C and lows near 3°C, though still cold and off-season. Rainfall measures 60mm, making it a wet month with limited sunshine averaging 4 hours daily.

Recommended Clothing: Warm clothing and waterproof jackets are necessary. Layered dressing allows flexible response to temperature variations. Don’t forget gloves and hats for warmth and comfort.

March

Weather: March brings temperatures rising from 7°C to 14°C alongside spring rains. With 95mm precipitation and 73% humidity, it remains somewhat damp. This is when cherry blossoms begin blooming in parks and along the Bund, creating photogenic scenes.

Recommended Clothing: Due to fluctuating temperatures, layered sweaters and medium-weight jackets are ideal. An umbrella is essential, and flexible dressing helps manage morning and evening coolness while adapting to afternoon warmth.

April

Weather: April features pleasant temperatures rising from 12°C to 20°C, making Shanghai increasingly inviting for visitors. Though 75mm of rain occurs, spring’s refreshing weather becomes more apparent. The Huangpu River cruises provide excellent opportunities to appreciate Shanghai’s modern skyline.

Recommended Clothing: Water-resistant clothing and lightweight jackets are recommended. Carry an umbrella for occasional rain, though daytime warmth makes long-sleeved shirts sufficiently comfortable.

May

Weather: May brings warm and humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C, ideal for outdoor activities. With 84mm precipitation, occasional showers occur, necessitating umbrella preparation.

Recommended Clothing: Light sweaters and layered outfits help manage day-to-night temperature variations. Comfortable shoes support extended outdoor exploration, and a lightweight umbrella handles unexpected showers.

June

Weather: June marks the season’s humid onset with temperatures rising from 22°C to 28°C and significantly increased rainfall (180mm). High humidity suggests balancing indoor and outdoor activities. Museums like the Shanghai Museum, Jin Mao Tower, and Oriental Pearl Tower provide relief, while evening walks along the Bund and French Concession offer cooler alternatives.

Recommended Clothing: Waterproof shoes and umbrellas are essential. Light, breathable clothing is recommended, with preference for natural fabrics like cotton and linen that manage humidity effectively.

July

Weather: July is slightly drier and sunnier than June but remains very hot, with temperatures between 26°C to 33°C. Though rainfall drops to 145mm, strong midday sun requires sun protection. Summer vacation crowds add congestion to major attractions.

Recommended Clothing: Light, breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, and sunglasses are essential. Sunscreen and umbrellas protect against intense heat and occasional rain. Plan indoor activities like aquariums and museums to escape peak heat.

August

Weather: August is extremely hot and humid with temperatures between 26°C and 33°C and the highest monthly rainfall at 215mm. Despite extreme heat, seasonal fruits like peaches, mangosteens, and lychees become available at local markets. Evening and nighttime are better for activities like shopping and dining in areas like Xintiandi.

Recommended Clothing: Light, loose-fitting clothing is recommended for comfort. Waterproof footwear, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essentials. Natural, lightweight fabrics help manage the oppressive heat and humidity.

September

Weather: September marks autumn’s beginning with temperatures cooling from 22°C to 29°C. With 86mm rainfall and lower humidity compared to summer, outdoor activities become feasible. The Shanghai Tourism Festival brings cultural events enriching visitor experiences.

Recommended Clothing: Add thin layers to summer clothing as nights become cooler. Lightweight cardigans or jackets accommodate temperature variations as autumn progresses, particularly after mid-September.

October

Weather: October features pleasantly cool temperatures between 16°C and 24°C with only 55mm rainfall. Clear skies and abundant sunshine create ideal exploration conditions. Early autumn foliage becomes visible in parks. The Mid-Autumn Festival celebrates traditional culture with family gatherings and mooncake traditions.

Recommended Clothing: Layered outfits with long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and lightweight jackets accommodate temperature changes. Comfortable walking shoes support exploration of attractions like Jing’an Temple and Century Park to enjoy autumn scenery.

November

Weather: November brings clear, dry autumn weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C. Only 50mm rainfall occurs, and ample sunshine supports outdoor activities. Plane tree leaves display golden hues, making parks especially beautiful for walks and photograph opportunities.

Recommended Clothing: Layered clothing including long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and lightweight jackets maintains comfort as temperatures decline. Thin windbreakers prepare for increasingly cool weather, though the season remains pleasant for outdoor exploration.

December

Weather: December signals winter’s arrival with temperatures dropping from 4°C to 11°C. Though rainfall remains minimal at 45mm, clear and sunny days are abundant. Christmas shopping and festive atmospheres transform shopping districts like Nanjing Road and Xintiandi with elaborate holiday decorations.

Recommended Clothing: Warm winter clothing, layered outfits, and comfortable shoes are essential. Scarves, gloves, and hats provide necessary warmth, while waterproof coats protect against occasional rain. The festive season offers excellent shopping and cultural experiences.

Planning Your Shanghai Visit

Key Takeaways

Packing Essentials by Season

• Spring/Autumn: Umbrella, layered clothing, comfortable walking shoes, light jacket
• Summer: Sunscreen, sunglasses, umbrella, light breathable clothing, water bottle
• Winter: Waterproof coat, sweater, gloves, scarf, hat, thermal underlayers

Final Recommendations

Shanghai offers something for every traveler, but timing your visit strategically enhances the experience. Spring and autumn provide unmatched climate comfort for exploring the city’s diverse attractions. Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during Chinese holidays. Check weather forecasts before your trip and pack accordingly to ensure a comfortable, memorable Shanghai experience.

This guide is designed for travelers planning a visit to Shanghai. Weather conditions can vary, so check forecasts closer to your travel dates and adjust plans as needed.