Hangzhou in December
Good time to visit
December rewards cold-weather tolerance with empty attractions and crisp, clear days. If you can handle the chill, you'll have Hangzhou practically to yourself.
Weather
December brings winter's chill with dry air and occasional frost, though temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Sunny days outnumber cloudy ones, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. Humidity stays low and comfortable.
12°C high4°C low7 rain days
Crowds & Cost
low crowds
~$70/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Winter plum blossoms begin
- •New Year preparations
December Tips
- •Pack warm clothes for morning and evening
- •Tourist sites are gloriously empty
- •Indoor attractions like temples provide warm refuge
All Months
Spring arrives in March with cherry blossoms exploding around West Lake. The weather hits that perfect 20°C sweet spot, and you can walk for hours without breaking a sweat. April and May are peak season for good reason - everything's green and blooming. But expect crowds, especially during Chinese holidays. Fall is equally gorgeous. September through November brings crisp air and the famous autumn foliage that Chinese poets have been writing about for centuries. The maples around Lingyin Temple turn brilliant red in late October. Here's what locals won't tell tourists: winter has its own magic. December through February sees fewer visitors, hotel prices drop by 40%, and the morning mist over West Lake creates an almost mystical atmosphere. Sure, it's chilly, but hot tea tastes better when there's frost on the pavilion roofs. Avoid July and August unless you enjoy swimming in humidity. The temperature hits 35°C and the air feels thick enough to cut with a knife.
Hangzhou Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
9/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
4/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
8/10
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