Xian Weather & Best Time to Visit

With a 3,100-year history as a city and a 1,100-year history as a capital in ancient China, Xi'an is one of the top tourist destinations in China for all travelers. When planning your trip to Xian, it is wise for you to understand Xian weather, climate, and best time to visit Xian. 

Located in the northwest of China, in the Guanzhong Plain of the central part of the Yellow River Basin, and between the longitude of 107°40′ to 109°49′ and the latitude of 33°42′ to 34°45′. Xi'an is divided into the warm temperate zone, has a sub-humid continental monsoon climate with clearly defined seasonal changes. It is far from the sea, does not encounter typhoons. And it is not close to the inland, so there is no obvious drought and sand. You can have different weather in Xian in different seasons. 

How is the Weather in Xian?

Xi'an in winter is cold, with light winds, frequent smog, and little precipitation. Spring in Xian is warm, dry, windy, and characterized by variable conditions. Xian in Summer is hot and rainy, marked by pronounced summer droughts and frequent thunderstorms with strong winds. And Autumn in Xian is cool, with rapidly dropping temperatures and noticeable autumn rains.

Based on statistical analysis of climate data from the past 30 years (1991–2020), the annual average temperature ranges from 13.5 to 14.9°C. January is the coldest month, with average temperatures ranging from -1.2°C to 0.7°C. July is the hottest month, averaging 26.9°C to 27.8°C. The annual extreme minimum temperature recorded was -21.2°C (in Lantian District, December 28, 1991), while the annual extreme maximum reached 43.3°C (in Chang'an District, June 17, 2006).

Annual precipitation ranges from 506.1 to 690.3 mm. The highest annual rainfall was 954.9 mm (in Lintong District, 2003), while the lowest was 277.6 mm (in downtown Xi'an, 2013). The highest daily rainfall recorded was 138.9 mm (in Gaoling District, 2007). Precipitation peaks occur in July and September.

Xi'an's annual sunshine duration ranges from 1,679.9 to 2,062.6 hours.

Xian Weather by Month

Note: It is based on the historical meteorological data of Xi'an City

What Is the Best Time to Visit Xian?

Xi'an is a cultural tourism destination, which can be said to be suitable for tourism all year round. However, considering the weather, the best time to visit Xian is from March to June, warm spring with pleasant climate, and September to October with beautiful autumn and various fruits.

As the temperature increases in spring, the frequency of rain will increase. But mostly is the drizzle that accompanies the sunshine, come and pass quickly, more is sunny and cloudy still, suitable for outdoor activities.

From June to August, you can feel distinct heat in summer. Most days are sunny, the heat makes the air dry and the locals are reluctant to stay outside much. But there is often rain as well, and it rains continuously and heavily. It usually rains for a few days and the sun shines for a few days. We recommend visiting indoor programs like Shaanxi History Museum, Forest of Stone Stele Museum, etc. if you are in Xian in summer, cool and avoid raining.

Autumn is cool, and mild, the temperature is pleasant during the day, but drops quickly at night, there is a large temperature difference between day and night, it is acceptable to stay indoors or keep moving at night.

Xian’s winter is cold, but it’s better than Beijing, Dunhuang, Harbin these northern cities. Less rain but a bit windy and foggy. Sometimes snow and it’s not big snow. If you travel to Xian in winter, two biggest benefits are that there are fewer people and lower prices. Hike in Mount Huashan is okay.

When is the Rainy Season in Xian?

Rainy season is mainly ranging from July to September. There are two obvious precipitation peaks in July and September. The average annual precipitation in Xian is 558 - 750 mm, increasing from north to south. It varies from year to year. After several days of hot sun and clear sky, it is indicated that there will be some heavy rain coming soon. They usually break out suddenly at noon and afternoon, and then end. Always preparing an umbrella when you visit Xian in summer is a wise idea.

What Do People Wear in Xian in Different Seasons?

In spring, a sweater and a jacket or coat will be ok; T-shirt in summer; shirt with a jacket for prepared will be fine in autumn; you can wear warm clothes, sweater and down jacket in winter.

Does Xian Snow?

It snows, but not very often. There's a lot of light snow in the Xian city, and it's basically going to melt the next day. In the suburbs, some places with high altitude or near the north have heavy snow, ski resorts built there. If you want to see the snow covered city walls, we suggest to go to Beijing, if you want to play the snow, suggest to visit Harbin or Urumqi.

Xian Weather in Spring & Top Things to Do

What to Do

The weather in Xi'an is mild in spring, and everything comes back to life. It is also the flower season in Xi'an. You can enjoy cherry blossoms, apricot flowers and other flowers at Qinglong Temple, the National Heritage Site Park of Daming Palace and the Qinling National Botanical Garden. Why not rent a bicycle on the city walls of Xi'an to enjoy the spring scenery of the ancient city? On a sunny spring day, of course you can visit famous ancient sites such as the Terracotta Warriors Museum and Huaqing Pool. 

In spring, don't miss the dishes made from Flos Sophorae, and spring bamboo shoots.

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Xian Weather in Summer & Top Things to Do

What to Do

In summer in Xi'an, the days are hot with occasional thunderstorms, while the nights are cool. During the day, you can visit indoor attractions such as the Terracotta Army and the Shaanxi History Museum, which not only broadens your knowledge but also helps you escape the heat. In the evening, you can walk the city walls of Xi'an. It is also a good idea to take a night tour of the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever-bright City or watch the historical performance "Everlasting Sorrow".

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Xian Weather in Autumn & Top Things to Do

What to Do

Xi'an in autumn is pleasant, with clear blue skies and white clouds. It is suitable for outdoor activities and mountain hiking. You can visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and the Tang Dynasty Furong Garden, experiencing the grandeur of the Tang Empire a thousand years ago under the autumn sun. Climbing Mount Huashan, one of the most famous and most dangerous mountains in China, allows you to enjoy the autumn scenery. 

Autumn is the harvest season for pomegranates and fire crisp persimmons in Lintong, and persimmon cakes are a must-try snack on Xi'an Muslim Quarter.

Xian Weather in Winter & Top Things to Do

What to Do

Xi'an is cold and dry in winter, with occasional snowfall. There are relatively few tourists. Visit the Bell and Drum Tower Square to experience the festive atmosphere around the Spring Festival. Go to the Huaqing Pool in Lishan to soak in the hot spring and warm yourself up from the cold. Taste winter food of Xian such as mutton soup buns, meat-filled buns, and hot liangpi.

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