Climate and Weather

The weather of Chongqing is influenced by rivers, mountains and latitude. Temperature, precipitation, visibility and hours of sunshine can vary from time to time, and over short distances.

Chongqing’s weather can change quickly, have a weather app with you and check it regularly before planning an outdoor activity. The city is built on mountains, so expect lots of stairs. Wear comfortable shoes. Foggy and rainy days are very common in Chongqing, especially in Autumn and Winter, make sure you have an umbrella, rain jackets and waterproof shoes with you.

Spring (March to May)

Spring time in Chongqing usually starts early, with temperatures warming up from around 10°C to 20°C . Spring is the best time to travel around Chongqing where everything is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers, green hills and nice sunshine. Rain showers are common but they are usually light. The entire city feels fresh, and making it a great time to hike, boat, kayak or visit a park.

Pack light layers, waterproof jackets and comfy shoes. Check weather on a daily basis as spring showers can pop up unexpectedly. Bring an umbrella to stay flexible.

Summer (June to August)

Chongqing is situated in the southwest of China, far away from the coast, in a basin surrounded by mountains. This unique geographic location traps heat and moisture, making Chongqing’s summer hot and humid. The Yangtze and Jialing Rivers run through Chongqing, adding additional moisture to the air, boosting humidity. Summer feels hot and sticky, with temperatures often hitting 35°C, and sometimes hitting 40°C.

Summer is also the rainiest season in Chongqing, with heavy downpours from the monsoon, and humidity hovers near 80%. The heat brings out the locals’ creative ways to cope. You will see people splashing through mahjong and poker games in shallow pools, uncles and aunts dancing or playing chess in cool underground tunnels, or friends savoring spicy hotpot in shelter caves. It’s a quite an unforgettable scene.

Pack breathable clothes, a hit, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Limit the time to stay outdoor and plan more indoor activities such as Museum, Hongyadong, shopping area or air-conditioned malls. Take the two river cruise to cool off in the evening. When booking a hotel, ensure air-conditioning is provided and works in the the room. Drink lots of water, stay hydrated and avoid midday heat. Avoid going outside during noon to beat the worst temperatures.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn is pleasant to travel in Chongqing, especially seeing all the tree leaves turn golden. The temperature also cools down, dropping to 25°C and further down to 15°C in November. It’s also the wettest season, with frequent rain and continuous rainy days that can last for weeks.

Pack waterproof jackets, sturdy shoes and layers for cooler evening. Plan indoor backups for rainy days.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are mild, with temperatures typically between 5°C and 10°C. Fog often blankets the city, casting a mystical glow over the rivers and hills, while sunshine is a rare treat.

To warm up, locals go to steaming hotpot restaurants, enjoying spicy hotpot or lamb hotpot.

Though snow is uncommon in the city, you can chase winter thrills nearby. Head to Fairy Mountain for skiing, tubing, or snowball fights. Chongqing’s Golden Buddha Mountain also gets dustings of snow, ideal for scenic hikes.

Pack for winter jackets, scarf, and waterproof shoes for raining days. Southern part of China doesn’t offer central heating, therefore, expect restaurants and indoor places with no central heating. Malls and hotel rooms typically have AC that heats up the room.

Chongqing, a huge city in southwest China, has a warm, wet climate that changes with its hills and rivers. It’s got hot summers, mild winters, lots of rain, and plenty of fog. Here’s a simple guide to help you plan your trip.

Best Season to Visit Chongqing

Chongqing welcomes visitors year-round, with each season offering its own special charm.

Spring and Autumn are the most popular times to visit, when temperatures are mild – neither too hot nor too cold, and the city bursts with vibrant energy. These seasons are perfect for all kinds of adventures. Nature lovers will especially adore these times for exploring Chongqing Zoo, the lush Nanshan Botanic Garden, or the breathtaking Wulong Karst National Geographic Park, where waterfalls and cliffs dazzle under clear skies.