Guilin Climate

Guilin has a subtropical climate with mild climate and abundant rainfall. The annual average rainfall is 1,900 mm, the average temperature is 19°C. There is no cold in winter and no hot in summer. The annual frost-free period is about 300 days, and the annual average sunshine is more than 1,550 hours. Therefore, Guilin is definitely a good place for tourism, and the scenery is absolutely unique. The scenery on both sides of the Li River is beautiful, the air is very fresh, and the Cruise  on Li River is very pleasant. The scenery of the Karst Landform is also very good.

Temperature in Guilin

Guilin's annual average temperature is around 19℃, which is relatively mild, with a frost-free period of more than 300 days. The hottest days are in July and August. The monthly average temperature is about 28°C. And the extreme maximum temperature does not exceed 39°C. The coldest days are in January and February. The average temperature is 8-9°C. And the average minimum temperature is not lower than 5°C, so it is not cold. However, there have been severe cold temperatures of 3-4°C below zero.

Precipitation of Guilin

The rainfall in Guilin is abundant, with an average annual rainfall of 1,900-2,000 mm. The rainy season is from April to July, with rainfall accounting for 40% of the year.

Four Seasons of Guilin

Spring

The average spring temperature of Guilin is 11-18°C. It is cold in the daytime. For visitors who plan to visit Guilin during the period, sometimes, there are spring drizzles, but something lighter like T-shirts with a raincoat will be comfortable. If you visiting there in spring, rainwear is necessary.

Summer

The rainfall in summer reaches up to 1,000 mm, accounting for over 40% of the total rainfall per year. If you go there during the period, it will be wise to bring an umbrella with you. It is recommended to bring T-shirts with skirts, shorts or slacks for summer when the temperature can be rather high. What's more, the sunblock, insect repellant and some daily medicines are necessary.

Autumn

Autumn is the peak season for travel. During the period, it is mostly fine and clear. What's more, the  water in the Li River looks like a mirror. Therefore, it is so picturesque that you can enjoy the reflections of sceneries, such as Elephant Trunk Hill. It is recommended to pack comfortable, casual and light clothes such as long-sleeved T-shirts or shirts plus thin jackets.

Please Note: It is necessary to avoid the Chinese National Day from October 1st to 7th, when all the people in China seem to move around during the period.

Winter

It is better choice to travel to Guilin in winter. It is recommended to pack some spring and autumn clothes plus thermal undermal and woolen sweaters. It is possible to enjoy the winter snow in Guilin during the coldest time near the Chinese New Year.

Guilin is located in the southwestern part of the Nanling Mountains, with a terrain that gradually descends from north to south and from east to west. The elevation ranges from around 100 meters in river valleys and plains to 2,141 meters at the main peak of Yuecheng Ridge. The large elevation differences, combined with karst landforms, rivers, forests, and mountain valleys, create a unique multi-climate environment within one destination.

Guilin belongs to the humid subtropical monsoon climate zone, with an annual average temperature of about 18.8°C, annual precipitation of approximately 1,500–2,000 mm, and average relative humidity between 75% and 85%. The region experiences four distinct seasons, but climate conditions vary significantly between urban areas, karst valleys, high mountains, and rural counties.

The three major geographical landscapes shaping Guilin’s climate are middle and high mountains, karst peak forests and valley landscapes, and isolated peak plains. These different landforms directly influence temperature, rainfall, humidity, fog formation, and seasonal travel experiences.

Climate Differences Caused by Regional Landforms

Guilin’s Overall Climate Characteristics

Four Seasons with Distinct Travel Experiences

Guilin has a typical subtropical monsoon climate with noticeable seasonal differences. Winter is not extremely cold but feels damp and chilly because of high humidity. Summer temperatures are high with frequent rainfall, while spring and autumn offer the most comfortable travel conditions.

The climate creates different travel themes throughout the year: spring is known for misty landscapes and ethnic festivals, summer is ideal for water activities and mountain escapes, autumn is the best season for photography and outdoor exploration, and winter is suitable for hot springs, cultural tours, and peaceful sightseeing.

Rainfall, Humidity and Weather Features

Rainfall is concentrated mainly from April to August, accounting for approximately 60%–70% of annual precipitation. Short heavy rains and thunderstorms are common, especially in mountainous areas where travelers should pay attention to possible landslides and sudden water level changes.

Humidity remains high throughout the year, with spring humidity sometimes reaching around 90%. This causes summer heat to feel stronger and winter temperatures to feel colder than the actual temperature.

Autumn and winter generally have clearer skies and better visibility, while spring often features cloudy weather and frequent mist, creating the classic Chinese landscape painting atmosphere of Guilin.

Regional Climate Comparison Overview

Guilin Monthly Weather Guide

(Based on Guilin urban area elevation around 190m, with temperature differences for major travel areas included.)

Four Seasons Guilin Travel Guide: Climate, Routes, Clothing and Practical Tips

Spring Travel in Guilin (March–May): Misty Landscapes, Flower Season and Ethnic Festivals

Spring Climate Features

Spring is one of the most atmospheric seasons in Guilin, with rising temperatures, frequent rainfall, morning mist, and changing weather conditions. March remains relatively cool, with average temperatures around 12–18°C, while April warms to 17–24°C, and May reaches 21–28°C.

The combination of spring rain, river humidity, karst peaks, and rural landscapes creates Guilin’s classic ink-painting scenery. This period is especially suitable for experiencing misty Li River landscapes, peach blossoms, ethnic festivals, and traditional farming culture.

Best Spring Travel Areas

The most recommended spring destinations include Gongcheng Peach Blossom Areas, Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng, Li River and Yulong River in Yangshuo, East-West Alley and Two Rivers and Four Lakes in Guilin City, and Lingqu Canal in Xing’an.

Gongcheng is ideal for flower viewing and Yao ethnic culture. Longsheng offers terrace scenery combined with spring farming activities. Yangshuo provides the best combination of river scenery, cycling routes, and traditional villages.

Recommended 3-Day Spring Cultural Route

Day 1: Visit Gongcheng peach blossom areas and experience Yao ethnic long-table meals. Stay overnight in Gongcheng.

Day 2: Explore Xing’an Lingqu Canal and continue to Longji Rice Terraces for spring farming landscapes and terrace photography. Stay in a mountain-view guesthouse in Longsheng.

Day 3: Experience Li River bamboo rafting and Yulong River cycling in Yangshuo, followed by evening activities at West Street.

Spring Clothing Guide

The recommended clothing combination is a light quick-dry long-sleeve shirt, waterproof windproof jacket, long pants, and non-slip hiking shoes.

Essential items include a foldable raincoat, sunscreen, sun hat, and light outdoor protection because spring showers and mountain mist are common. For early mornings in terrace areas and valleys, a thin fleece layer is recommended.

For photography, light-colored traditional clothing such as Hanfu or ethnic-style dresses match well with peach blossoms, ancient villages, bridges, and misty mountains.

Spring Travel Tips

Spring rainfall can make mountain paths slippery. Travelers should drive carefully and check road conditions before visiting remote villages.

Water levels of the Li River and Yulong River may change after heavy rain, and bamboo rafting schedules can occasionally be adjusted according to weather conditions.

During major events such as Zhuang March 3 Festival and spring farming festivals, hotels, bamboo rafting tickets, and cultural activities should be reserved at least 15 days in advance.

Summer Travel in Guilin (June–August): Water Activities, Mountain Escapes and Outdoor Adventures

Summer Climate Features

Summer in Guilin is hot, humid, and rainy. July is usually the hottest month, with average temperatures around 25–32°C, while August remains around 24–31°C.

Afternoon thunderstorms are common, but mountain areas and rivers provide natural cooling. High-altitude regions such as Longsheng and Ziyuan become excellent summer escape destinations.

Best Summer Travel Areas

Recommended summer destinations include Longsheng Hot Spring, Ziyuan Bajiaozhai Danxia Scenic Area, Yangshuo Yulong River, Gudong Waterfall, and high mountain areas around Longsheng.

Mountain forests, waterfalls, rivers, caves, and rafting activities provide ideal summer experiences.

Recommended 2-Day Summer Cooling Route

Day 1: Enjoy Longsheng forest hot springs and explore Ziyuan Bajiaozhai Danxia landscapes. Stay overnight in Ziyuan County.

Day 2: Experience bamboo rafting on Yulong River and cycle through Shili Gallery in Yangshuo. Enjoy West Street nightlife in the evening.

Summer Clothing Guide

Recommended clothing includes quick-dry T-shirts, lightweight sun-protection jackets, breathable pants, water shoes, and UV protection accessories.

Essential items include mosquito repellent, waterproof phone bags, extra clothes, and sandals for waterfalls or rafting activities.

Visitors traveling to mountains or riverside areas should bring a thin jacket because temperatures may drop quickly after sunset.

Summer Travel Tips

Avoid outdoor activities between 12:00 and 15:00 when sunlight is strongest. Schedule hiking and sightseeing during mornings or late afternoons.

During thunderstorms, avoid deep valleys, waterfalls, and river areas because sudden rainfall may cause rising water levels.

Before participating in rafting, waterfall tours, or outdoor activities, check whether weather conditions affect operation schedules.

Autumn Travel in Guilin (September–November): Golden Landscapes and Photography Season

Autumn Climate Features

Autumn is widely considered the best season to travel throughout Guilin. The weather becomes cooler, rainfall decreases, humidity drops, and visibility improves.

Average temperatures are approximately 20–27°C in September, 16–23°C in October, and 12–17°C in November. The temperature difference between day and night can reach around 12°C.

The combination of golden rice terraces, clear rivers, colorful forests, and comfortable weather makes autumn the peak photography season.

Best Autumn Travel Areas

Top destinations include Longji Rice Terraces in Longsheng, Xianggong Mountain in Yangshuo, Xingping Li River, Hongyan Village in Gongcheng, and Lingqu Canal in Xing’an.

Recommended 4-Day Photography Route

Day 1: Visit Longji Jinkeng Rice Terraces, enjoy sunset views from Xishan Shaole Scenic Area, and stay in a mountain-view guesthouse.

Day 2: Watch sunrise from Xianggong Mountain, experience Li River scenery, and enjoy sunset views around Xingping Ancient Town.

Day 3: Explore Yulong River bamboo rafting and Shili Gallery scenery in Yangshuo.

Day 4: Visit Gongcheng Hongyan Village for persimmon harvest scenery and continue to Xing’an Lingqu Canal.

Autumn Clothing Guide

Recommended clothing includes long-sleeve shirts, windproof jackets, comfortable hiking shoes, and long pants.

A lightweight down jacket is recommended for early mornings on mountains, terrace sunrise photography, and evening outdoor activities.

For photography, colors such as beige, caramel, and wine red match especially well with golden terraces and karst landscapes.

Autumn Travel Tips

During National Day holidays and autumn weekends, hotels, rafting tickets, and performance tickets become highly demanded. Reservations should ideally be made 30 days ahead.

Morning terrace viewpoints can become crowded. Arriving before 6:00 AM helps avoid crowds and provides better photography conditions.

Winter Travel in Guilin (December–February): Hot Springs, Quiet Landscapes and Cultural Experiences

Winter Climate Features

Winter in Guilin is not extremely cold, but high humidity creates a damp and chilly feeling. Average temperatures are around 6–11°C in January and 8–14°C in February.

Mountain areas can experience frost, ice, and occasional snow scenery, while urban areas are suitable for relaxed sightseeing and cultural exploration.

Best Winter Travel Areas

Recommended winter destinations include Longsheng Hot Springs, Ziyuan Bajiaozhai frost scenery, Guilin Two Rivers and Four Lakes, Yangshuo West Street, and Longsheng ethnic villages.

Recommended 2-Day Winter Wellness Route

Day 1: Enjoy forest hot springs in Longsheng and stay overnight at a hot spring resort.

Day 2: Visit Ziyuan Bajiaozhai for mountain winter scenery, then explore Elephant Trunk Hill and East-West Alley in Guilin City.

Winter Clothing Guide

Recommended clothing includes:

Thermal base layers + thick sweater + waterproof down jacket + warm trousers + non-slip winter shoes.

Essential items include scarves, gloves, moisturizing cream, and extra dry clothes for hot spring activities.

For high-altitude mountain areas, travelers should prepare anti-slip equipment because roads may become icy.

Winter Travel Tips

Mountain roads may freeze during cold waves. Self-driving travelers should reduce speed and prepare suitable safety equipment.

Outdoor sightseeing time should be controlled, especially in high mountain areas. Combine outdoor attractions with warm indoor activities such as museums, old streets, cultural exhibitions, and hot springs.

Best Guilin Travel Seasons by Travel Purpose